Surrogacy is a powerful option for individuals and couples who want to build their families but are unable to carry a pregnancy themselves. One of the key questions that often arises during the surrogacy process is: Whose eggs are used in surrogacy? This question is critical because the source of the egg determines the genetic link between the intended parents and the child. In this blog, we will explore the different types of surrogacy, whose eggs are used in each case, and the factors involved in deciding which option is best.
Types of Surrogacy: Traditional vs. Gestational
To understand whose eggs are used in surrogacy, it is important to distinguish between traditional surrogacy and gestational surrogacy. The egg source depends on which form of surrogacy is being pursued.
1. Traditional Surrogacy
In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate provides her own egg, making her the genetic mother of the child. The surrogate is inseminated with the sperm of either the intended father or a sperm donor. In this arrangement, the surrogate carries and delivers the child, but she also shares a genetic connection with the baby.
Traditional surrogacy is much less common today due to the emotional, ethical, and legal complexities involved. Because the surrogate has a genetic link to the child, there is a higher risk of legal complications regarding parental rights.
2. Gestational Surrogacy
In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate has no genetic connection to the baby she carries. The intended parents (or a donor) provide the egg, which is fertilized via in vitro fertilization (IVF) and then implanted into the surrogate’s uterus. Gestational surrogacy is the most commonly used form of surrogacy today because it allows the intended parents to have a biological connection to the child without involving the surrogate in the genetic aspect of the pregnancy.
Whose Eggs Are Used in Gestational Surrogacy?
In gestational surrogacy, there are three potential sources for the eggs used to create the embryo:
1. The Intended Mother’s Eggs
When possible, the intended mother’s eggs are the preferred option for creating the embryo. In this case, the child will be biologically related to both the intended mother and the intended father (if his sperm is used), or to the intended mother and a sperm donor.
If the intended mother is still able to produce viable eggs but is unable to carry a pregnancy due to medical reasons such as uterine issues, recurrent miscarriages, or health risks, using her eggs in combination with a gestational surrogate offers the opportunity to maintain a genetic link to the child.
2. Egg Donor’s Eggs
In cases where the intended mother is unable to provide viable eggs due to age, infertility, or other medical reasons, the eggs can be sourced from an egg donor. The donor could be someone known to the intended parents (such as a relative or friend), or she could be an anonymous donor selected through an egg donation program.
When an egg donor is used, the child will be genetically related to the donor and the intended father (if his sperm is used), or to the donor and a sperm donor.
Egg donation is a common choice in surrogacy arrangements, particularly for same-sex male couples or single men who want to become parents. These individuals or couples will typically use a gestational surrogate in combination with an egg donor.
3. Donated Embryos
Some intended parents opt to use donated embryos, which were created during another couple’s IVF cycle but were not used. The couple who created these embryos donates them to other individuals or couples in need of assistance to achieve pregnancy.
When donated embryos are used in gestational surrogacy, the child will not be genetically related to either of the intended parents. However, this option provides a way for individuals or couples to experience pregnancy and birth while also giving embryos a chance to develop into a baby.
Factors That Influence Egg Source in Surrogacy
Choosing the source of the eggs used in surrogacy is a deeply personal decision that involves several important factors.
1. Fertility and Health of the Intended Mother
The primary factor influencing the decision to use the intended mother’s eggs is her fertility and overall health. In some cases, the intended mother may be able to produce eggs but is unable to carry a pregnancy due to medical reasons. If her eggs are viable, they can be harvested through IVF, fertilized, and transferred to the gestational surrogate.
However, if the intended mother has fertility challenges related to egg quality or quantity—such as diminished ovarian reserve or advanced age—using an egg donor may be a better option.
2. Genetic Link
Many intended parents desire a biological connection to their child. If the intended mother’s eggs are viable, using her eggs allows the child to be genetically related to her. If her eggs are not viable, using an egg donor is a solution that still allows the intended father (if his sperm is used) to maintain a genetic link to the child.
For same-sex male couples, an egg donor will always be necessary. One partner will typically provide the sperm, allowing the child to be genetically related to at least one intended parent.
3. Availability of Donors
If an egg donor is required, finding the right donor can be emotional and logistical. Many intended parents choose to work with a fertility clinic or agency that specializes in egg donation to find an anonymous donor. Some prefer to use a known donor, such as a friend or family member, particularly if they want the child to have some genetic connection to their family.
4. Cost
The cost of using donor eggs or donated embryos can be a significant factor in the surrogacy process. Egg donation typically involves additional medical procedures and compensation for the donor, which increases the overall cost of the surrogacy journey. Donated embryos, on the other hand, may be a more cost-effective option but come with the trade-off of no genetic link to the intended parents.
Legal Considerations
When it comes to using an egg donor or a surrogate, legal agreements are essential to clarify the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved. Surrogacy agreements outline that the intended parents have full parental rights to the child, while the surrogate and egg donor (if applicable) relinquish their rights.
Each state or country has its own legal framework regarding surrogacy, so it is crucial for intended parents to work with experienced legal professionals to ensure all aspects of the process are covered.
Surrogacy offers a path to parenthood for individuals and couples who cannot carry a pregnancy themselves, but the question of whose eggs are used is an important consideration. Whether using the intended mother’s eggs, donor eggs, or donated embryos, the choice depends on factors like fertility, genetic preferences, and legal requirements. At Island Reproductive Services, we offer guidance and support throughout the surrogacy process to help you make informed decisions and bring your dream of parenthood to life.
If you are considering surrogacy or have questions about egg donation and IVF, our team of fertility specialists is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about your options.