Surrogacy
For some individuals and couples, the challenge of parenthood is not conception but safely carrying a pregnancy. Certain medical conditions may make pregnancy impossible or pose significant risks to the mother or baby. In such situations, surrogacy may provide an alternative pathway to parenthood through assisted reproductive technology.
What Is Surrogacy?
Surrogacy is an arrangement in which a woman, known as a surrogate or gestational carrier, carries a pregnancy on behalf of the intended parent(s).
At Advanced Fertility Centre, Kingswill Specialist Hospital, we primarily use gestational surrogacy, where embryos are created through IVF and transferred to the surrogate. The surrogate has no genetic relationship with the baby because her eggs are not used.
Types of Surrogacy
Traditional Surrogacy:
The surrogate’s own egg is used, making her genetically related to the baby. Due to the associated medical, ethical, and legal complexities, this form is not offered at our centre.
Gestational Surrogacy:
Embryos are created through IVF using the intended parents’ eggs and sperm, donor eggs or sperm, or a combination of donor gametes where medically appropriate. The resulting embryo is then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus.
Surrogacy is considered when carrying a pregnancy is medically impossible or presents significant health risks.
How the Surrogacy Process Works
At Advanced Fertility Centre, Kingswill Specialist Hospital, every surrogacy journey is carefully planned and medically supervised to support the intended parents and surrogate throughout treatment.
1. Fertility Assessment
The intended parents undergo a comprehensive fertility evaluation, including medical history, reproductive health assessment, and relevant fertility investigations.
2. IVF & Embryo Creation
Embryos are created through IVF using the intended parents’ eggs and sperm whenever possible. Where medically indicated, egg donation, sperm donation, or donor embryos may be considered. Advanced laboratory techniques may also be recommended based on individual needs.
3. Medical Screening
The intended parents and surrogate undergo appropriate medical screening to assess their suitability for treatment and pregnancy.
4. Counselling & Treatment Planning
Surrogacy involves medical, emotional, and practical considerations. Counselling and professional guidance are provided to help everyone understand the process and prepare for each stage.
5. Embryo Transfer
Once the surrogate is medically prepared, the selected embryo is transferred into her uterus. Where appropriate, a frozen embryo transfer may be used.
Our team provides coordinated care and support throughout the journey, from initial assessment through embryo transfer.
