Gestational Carrier
Table of Contents
Gestational Carrier Services: Your Path to Parenthood at NewLife Fertility
Gestational surrogacy provides an incredible opportunity for individuals and couples to grow their families when carrying a pregnancy isn’t possible. At NewLife Fertility, we understand the emotional and logistical complexities of the surrogacy process, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our expert team collaborates with trusted surrogacy agencies and professionals to ensure your journey is smooth, successful, and rewarding.
What is Gestational Surrogacy?
Gestational surrogacy is a process where a person carries and delivers a baby for another individual or couple. The pregnancy is achieved through in vitro fertilization (IVF), where an embryo created from the intended parents’ or donors’ egg and sperm is transferred to the surrogate’s uterus. Importantly, the surrogate has no genetic connection to the baby.
Who Benefits from Gestational Surrogacy?
Gestational surrogacy is a family-building option for:
- Individuals who cannot carry a pregnancy due to medical conditions.
- Same-sex male couples or single men wanting to start a family.
- Individuals without a uterus or with uterine abnormalities.
- Couples who have experienced repeated IVF failures or pregnancy loss.
- Women unable to safely carry a pregnancy due to health risks.
Understanding the Legal Framework in Canada
In Canada, surrogacy must be altruistic under the Assisted Human Reproduction Act. It is illegal to pay a surrogate beyond reimbursing receipted expenses related to the pregnancy. Surrogates must be over 21 years old. If you’re considering surrogacy, it’s essential to consult a lawyer and counselor experienced in assisted reproduction to ensure all legal and emotional aspects are handled with care. Visit our Patient Resources page for trusted recommendations.
How Gestational Surrogacy Works
1. Finding a Gestational Carrier
2. Medical, Psychological, and Legal Counseling
3. Egg Retrieval and Fertilization
4. Embryo Transfer
5. Pregnancy Monitoring
The gestational carrier receives ongoing care and monitoring at NewLife Fertility for the first 12 weeks to ensure a healthy pregnancy, after which they are referred to an OB-GYN
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What Medical Tests Are Required for a Gestational Surrogate?
A gestational surrogate (GS) must undergo a thorough medical evaluation to ensure she is healthy and fit to carry a pregnancy. This includes a detailed medical history review and a complete physical examination. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) recommends that all surrogates be screened for viral infections such as: HIV, Hep (A, B and C), etc.
Additionally, surrogates may require imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, to assess the health of their uterus, along with blood tests to identify any potential health concerns before pregnancy. - Is Psychological Testing Required for a Gestational Surrogate?
Yes, psychological evaluation is an essential part of the surrogacy process. The gestational surrogate and her partner (if applicable) should meet with a mental health professional specializing in reproductive medicine. - What Tests Do Intended Parents Need?
Intended parents are also required to undergo medical and screening tests before starting the surrogacy process. This includes a detailed medical history and physical examination, infectious disease testing, genetic carrier screening, embryo quality assessment, etc.
Why Choose NewLife Fertility for Your Gestational Surrogacy Journey?
- Expert Guidance: We connect you with top surrogacy agencies, legal professionals, and counselors.
- Comprehensive Care: From egg retrieval to embryo transfer, our team ensures every step of the process is seamless.
- Customized Support: Whether you’re using your own eggs, donor eggs, or donor sperm, we tailor our services to meet your unique needs.
- Advanced Technology: Our state-of-the-art IVF lab ensures the highest success rates for embryo creation and transfer.
Take the First Step Toward Parenthood
Contact us today to learn more about our gestational surrogacy services or to schedule a consultation with our fertility experts. Let’s start this incredible journey together!
