Surrogacy and IVF: Understand Differences and Considerations

Infertility has become a common concern for many couples today, often defined as the inability to conceive within a year of regular, unprotected intercourse. However, being diagnosed with infertility does not mean that the dream of having biological children is out of reach.

Advances in medical science have introduced several fertility treatments, offering hope to countless families. Among these, IVF (in vitro fertilization) has emerged as a popular option, especially when the cause of infertility remains unknown.

For couples facing more complex challenges, surrogacy offers an alternative route to parenthood, where someone else carries their baby. Both IVF and surrogacy have helped fulfill aspirations of becoming parents, bringing joy and satisfaction to families around the world.

Understanding these options can help couples decide the best route for their unique journey to start or grow their family.

Understand In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

IVF is a medical procedure in which an egg is fertilized by sperm outside the body in a laboratory. This process involves several steps:

1. Ovarian Stimulation: The female partner will need to undergo hormone treatment to stimulate her ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
2. Egg Retrieval: Once matured, the eggs are collected from the ovaries using a minor surgical procedure.
3. Fertilization: The retrieved eggs are mixed with sperm in the laboratory to facilitate fertilization.
4. Embryo Culture: The fertilized eggs (embryos) are monitored for a few days to assess their development.
5. Embryo Transfer: A selected healthy embryo is transferred into the female partner's uterus with the hope of conceiving.

Read Also:- IVF and Multiple Births

Understand Surrogacy

In surrogacy a woman (the surrogate) carries a child for another person or couple. There are two main types of surrogacy:

1. Traditional Surrogacy: The surrogate mother's egg is fertilized with the prospective father's sperm, making her the biological mother.
2. Gestational Surrogacy: Embryos created through IVF, using eggs and sperm from the intended parents or a donor, are implanted into a surrogate. In this case, the surrogate has no genetic connection to the child.

Differences Between IVF and Surrogacy

While both IVF and surrogacy help in becoming parents, they differ for several reasons:

1. Process:

• IVF: In this, fertilization of eggs and sperm is done in the laboratory, after which the embryo is transferred to the uterus of the intended mother.
• Surrogacy: In this, an embryo is implanted into the uterus of a surrogate mother, who carries the pregnancy to full term.

2. Genetic Connection:

• IVF: The child is genetically related to the intended parents if their eggs and sperm are used.
• Surrogacy: In gestational surrogacy, the child is genetically related to the intended parents or donors, not the surrogate.

3. Legal Considerations:

• IVF: This generally involves fewer legal complexities and focuses on the parents' rights over the embryo.
• Surrogacy: This requires more complex legal agreements to establish parental rights and responsibilities, which vary by jurisdiction.

4. Emotional Dynamics:

• IVF: A pregnant woman experiences pregnancy and childbirth.
• Surrogacy: The surrogate mother goes through the process of pregnancy and childbirth, which can create unique emotional concerns for all parties.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between IVF and Surrogacy

Deciding between IVF and surrogacy depends on various factors:

1. Medical Conditions: If the health condition of the prospective mother is such that she is unable to conceive, surrogacy may be a better option.
2. Emotional Readiness: Consider the emotional impact of not giving birth to a child and the involvement of a surrogate mother.
3. Legal Environment: There are wide variations in surrogacy laws; it is essential to understand the legal framework in your area.
4. Financial Considerations: Both options can be expensive, as surrogacy often involves higher expenses due to compensation and medical care for the surrogate.
5. Ethical and Cultural Beliefs: Personal beliefs may influence the decision, particularly concerning the use of a surrogate.

Read Also:- How Long Does IVF Take?

FAQs About IVF and surrogacy

Q1. What is the main difference between IVF and surrogacy?

IVF involves fertilizing eggs with sperm in a laboratory and transferring the embryo to the uterus of the intended mother. Surrogacy involves implanting the embryo into a surrogate who carries the pregnancy to full term.

Q2. Can IVF be used in surrogacy?

Yes, IVF is used to create embryos, which are then implanted into the surrogate's uterus in gestational surrogacy.

Q3. Is the surrogate genetically related to the child?

In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate has no genetic connection to the child. Traditional surrogacy uses the surrogate's egg, making her the biological mother.

Q4. What are the success rates of IVF compared to surrogacy?

IVF success rates vary depending on factors such as age and health. Surrogacy success rates are often higher, especially when a healthy surrogate is used. Consulting a fertility specialist can provide personalized information.

Q5. Is surrogacy legal in all parts of India?

There have been changes in surrogacy laws in India. It is important to stay updated and seek legal advice.

Q6. Do I need IVF for surrogacy?

Yes, IVF is commonly used in gestational surrogacy to create embryos, which are then implanted into the surrogate’s uterus.

Q7. Are there age restrictions for IVF or surrogacy?

Most clinics have age guidelines. It is always better to discuss this with your chosen clinic.

Q8. How many IVF cycles can one undergo?

Many IVF cycles vary for each person. Some people may be successful on the first try, while others may need to try several times.

Q9. Can the intended mother still bond with the baby in surrogacy?

Absolutely! Genetic links are not the only basis for the relationship between parent and child.

Q10. How long is the IVF process compared to surrogacy?

IVF typically takes a few weeks per cycle, whereas surrogacy lasts the entire pregnancy period.

Q11. Which is more expensive: IVF or surrogacy?

Generally, surrogacy is more expensive due to the surrogate's compensation and legal complications.

Q12. How do I choose between IVF and surrogacy?

Consider your health, financial capacity, and emotional readiness. Consultation with a trusted clinic can guide this decision.

Q13. Are there ethical concerns with either procedure?

Ethical considerations are personal. When conducted transparently and with consent, both procedures are medically and ethically acceptable.

Conclusion

Both IVF and surrogacy offer viable paths to becoming parents for couples facing infertility challenges. Understanding the processes, benefits, and considerations of each can help make an informed decision that aligns with personal circumstances and values. 

It is important to book an appointment with World Infertility & IVF Centre and legal advisors to pursue these options effectively.