Gestational Carrier vs.Traditional Surrogate: What is the Difference?

Recent advancements in medical science, particularly in the field of infertility treatment, have made parenthood possible for many couples and even single women. Among the modern assisted reproductive technologies (ART) available are traditional surrogacy and gestational surrogacy. While these two infertility treatment methods may seem similar at first glance, they are different. This article explains the key differences between a surrogate vs. gestational carrier in detail.

What Is a Surrogate Mother?

A traditional surrogate, often referred to as a surrogate mother, is a woman who both donates her egg and carries the pregnancy. In this method, known as traditional surrogacy, the surrogate is also the genetic mother of the child. This surrogacy process typically involves artificial insemination or natural conception. For instance, a woman may serve as a surrogate for her infertile sister by having sperm from the intended father inserted into her uterus (without sexual intercourse), resulting in the fertilization of her own egg.

Traditional surrogacy raises serious genetic, emotional, and legal challenges, since the surrogate has both biological and emotional ties to the baby, making custody and birth certificate registration complicated.

What Is a Gestational Carrier?

A gestational carrier has no genetic relationship to the child she carries. In gestational surrogacy, the eggs and sperm from the intended parents are fertilized through in vitro fertilization (IVF) in a laboratory, and the resulting embryo is then transferred to the carrier’s uterus.

Gestational surrogacy is particularly suitable for couples who produce healthy eggs and sperm but are unable to carry a pregnancy due to medical conditions such as uterine abnormalities, chronic illnesses, or previous hysterectomies. Since the gestational carrier has no biological link to the child, the potential for emotional attachment and custody complications is significantly reduced.



Gestational vs. Traditional Surrogacy: A Comparison of Processes

When exploring the options of gestational versus traditional surrogacy, it is essential to understand the differences in their medical procedures:

• In traditional surrogacy, fertilization takes place within the surrogate's uterus, typically through artificial insemination using sperm from the intended father or a donor. This method is generally less complex, requires fewer advanced technologies, and tends to be more cost-effective;
• In gestational surrogacy, fertilization occurs in a laboratory setting through in vitro fertilization (IVF). The embryos created are then carefully selected for health and viability before being transferred to the gestational carrier's uterus. This approach, while more expensive and technologically advanced, allows for greater control over the embryo's genetic health.

Gestational vs. Traditional Surrogacy: Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages and disadvantages of a surrogate mother may include:

Pros:

• Simpler medical procedure with fewer technological requirements;
• Generally lower overall costs compared to gestational surrogacy.

Cons:

• Increased risk of emotional attachment between the surrogate and the child, which can complicate relationships.
• Potential legal and custody issues due to the surrogate's genetic link to the baby.
• Limited acceptance in different religious and legal contexts.

Advantages and disadvantages of a gestational carrier are:

Pros:

• Widely accepted under Islamic law and recognized by most legal systems, providing clearer legal frameworks;
• Clear parentage and custody rights, as the intended parents are genetically linked to the child;
• No genetic relationship between the carrier and the child, reducing emotional complications.

Cons:

• Higher costs associated with IVF and advanced medical care;
• More complex medical procedures that require specialized expertise.



Surrogacy in Iran

Iran is one of the few countries in the Middle East where gestational surrogacy is legal and religiously accepted under Shia law. With highly skilled doctors, advanced fertility clinics, and affordable costs compared to Western countries, Iran has become a leading destination for medical tourism in infertility treatment. Couples from around the world choose Iran for safe, ethical, and successful surrogacy journeys.

Conclusion

Both gestational and traditional surrogacy serve as viable solutions for couples facing infertility challenges. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate not only carries the pregnancy but also provides the egg, which can lead to strong emotional bonds and potential lineage complications. In contrast, gestational surrogacy allows intended parents to remain the genetic parents of the child, as the carrier only provides a nurturing environment for the pregnancy. This distinction often results in a smoother legal, ethical, and emotional experience for all parties involved.

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FAQs on Gestational Carrier vs. Traditional Surrogate

Is a surrogate mother the same as a gestational carrier?

No, a surrogate mother is also the genetic mother of the baby, while a gestational carrier has no genetic connection to the child and only carries the pregnancy.

Which method is allowed in Islam, Gestational surrogacy or traditional surrogacy?

Gestational surrogacy is generally accepted by most Shia and Sunni scholars due to its clear lineage regarding the child's parentage.

Are both gestational surrogacy vs traditional surrogacy legal in Iran?

Yes, surrogacy is legal in Iran, provided it is conducted with official authorization, medical oversight, and written contracts.

Which method is more expensive? Gestational surrogacy or traditional surrogacy?

Gestational surrogacy tends to be more expensive than traditional surrogacy because it involves in vitro fertilization (IVF) and other advanced medical technologies.

Which method is better legally? Gestational surrogacy or traditional surrogacy?

Gestational surrogacy is generally smoother from a legal standpoint; registering the child and establishing custody is typically quicker and easier compared to traditional surrogacy.