Surrogacy has become an increasingly popular option for couples and individuals seeking to start a family when conventional methods are not feasible. There are two primary types of surrogacy: traditional surrogacy and gestational surrogacy. In this blog post, we will delve into the concept of traditional surrogacy, explore who might consider using it, and weigh its pros and cons in comparison to gestational surrogacy. Additionally, we will touch upon the cost of traditional surrogacy and how it impacts the decision-making process for intended parents.

What is Traditional Surrogacy?

Traditional surrogacy is a surrogacy arrangement in which the surrogate mother is biologically related to the child she carries. In this process, the surrogate's egg is fertilized using the sperm of the intended father or a donor, and she then carries the pregnancy to term. Since the surrogate is the biological mother of the child, traditional surrogacy often involves artificial insemination methods, such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF), to facilitate conception.

Who Would Use Traditional Surrogacy?

Traditional surrogacy might be an appealing option for several reasons. Couples or individuals facing challenges with infertility, genetic disorders, or medical conditions that prevent them from carrying a child to term may opt for traditional surrogacy. Same-sex male couples may also choose this route to have a biological connection to their child, as one partner could provide the sperm for conception.

In some cases, traditional surrogacy may be a more affordable option, as it involves fewer medical procedures compared to gestational surrogacy, which we will discuss in more detail later. Additionally, the emotional and psychological bond that can develop between the surrogate and the intended parents in traditional surrogacy might be a driving factor for some individuals or couples.

Pros of Traditional Surrogacy

• Biological Connection: One of the main advantages of traditional surrogacy is the direct biological connection between the surrogate mother and the child. This aspect can hold significant sentimental value for both the surrogate and the intended parents.

• Cost: Traditional surrogacy may be a more cost-effective option for some individuals or couples. Since it does not involve the use of a gestational carrier and related medical procedures, the overall expenses might be lower.

• Emotional Bond: Traditional surrogacy can lead to a stronger emotional bond between the surrogate and the intended parents due to the biological relationship. This connection can create a more intimate and nurturing environment during the pregnancy journey.

Cons of Traditional Surrogacy

• Legal and Emotional Complexity: Traditional surrogacy can present more legal and emotional complexities compared to gestational surrogacy. As the surrogate is biologically related to the child, issues related to parental rights and responsibilities might arise, which could lead to potential legal challenges and emotional strain.

• Ethical Concerns: Some individuals and experts raise ethical concerns regarding traditional surrogacy, as it involves the surrogate being both the biological mother and the gestational carrier. The possibility of emotional conflicts and disputes over custody rights may be heightened in this type of arrangement.

• Medical Risks: Traditional surrogacy requires the surrogate mother to undergo artificial insemination procedures, which may carry certain medical risks. These risks can include infection, discomfort, or reactions to fertility medications.

Comparison to Gestational Surrogacy

Gestational surrogacy, in contrast to traditional surrogacy, involves using an embryo created using the eggs and sperm of the intended parents or donors. The embryo is then implanted into the gestational surrogate's uterus, which has no genetic relationship to the child she carries. Let's explore the key differences between the two types of surrogacy.

• Genetic Connection: The most significant difference is that in traditional surrogacy, the surrogate has a genetic connection to the child, while in gestational surrogacy, she does not. This aspect can influence the intended parents' choice based on their preference for a biological link.

• Legal Simplicity: Gestational surrogacy tends to be more legally straightforward, as the surrogate has no genetic ties to the child. This reduces the likelihood of potential legal issues related to parental rights and custody, making the process smoother for all parties involved.

• Emotional Boundaries: Since the gestational surrogate has no genetic connection to the child, emotional boundaries may be clearer in gestational surrogacy. This can lead to a more defined relationship, minimizing emotional complexities.

Read more about the specific differences between gestational and traditional surrogacy.

Cost of Traditional Surrogacy

When considering the cost of traditional surrogacy, several factors come into play. As mentioned earlier, traditional surrogacy may be more cost-effective due to the reduced medical procedures involved. However, costs can vary significantly depending on the location, legal fees, agency charges, medical expenses, and compensation for the surrogate.

Traditional surrogacy is a unique and emotionally complex method of family-building, providing a biological connection between the surrogate and the child. Couples and individuals who prioritize this biological link or seek a potentially more affordable surrogacy option may consider traditional surrogacy. However, it is crucial to carefully weigh the legal, ethical, and emotional aspects associated with this type of arrangement. Comparatively, gestational surrogacy offers a more straightforward legal process and emotional boundaries but might not provide the same biological connection.

Ultimately, the decision between traditional surrogacy and gestational surrogacy rests on the individual preferences and circumstances of the intended parents. Consulting with surrogacy experts and professionals can help navigate the complexities and find the best-suited path to fulfilling the dream of parenthood.