Surrogacy has opened doors for countless families to experience the joy of parenthood. While gestational surrogacy is more common today, traditional surrogacy remains an important option for intended parents and surrogates alike. This path involves a unique process that combines both emotional and legal considerations, making it essential to understand how it works.

This guide explores the step-by-step process of traditional surrogacy, highlighting key aspects such as medical procedures, legal agreements, and emotional readiness.

What Is Traditional Surrogacy?

In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate provides her own egg, making her both the biological and birth mother of the child. Fertilization usually occurs through intrauterine insemination (IUI), using sperm from either the intended father or a donor.

This approach differs from gestational surrogacy, where the surrogate carries an embryo created with someone else’s egg. Because of the genetic link, the traditional surrogacy process requires careful planning, trust, and support.

Step 1: Deciding on Traditional Surrogacy

The first step is for intended parents to decide if traditional surrogacy is the right choice. Families may choose this path when:

• They prefer a simpler medical process without IVF.

• They are considering independent surrogacy, where the journey is managed without an agency.

• They have a trusted surrogate, such as a family member or close friend, who is willing to help.

Making this decision requires careful thought, as it affects the medical, legal, and emotional journey ahead.

Step 2: Screening and Qualifications

Both the surrogate and intended parents must undergo screening to ensure readiness for the process. For surrogates, this includes:

• Health evaluations to confirm they can safely carry a pregnancy.

• Psychological assessments to prepare for the emotional aspects of the journey.

• Meeting specific standards to qualify as a surrogate, such as having had at least one healthy pregnancy.

This step helps ensure that the surrogate is capable and that all parties are aligned in their expectations.

Step 3: Legal Agreements

Because the surrogate is biologically related to the child, legal planning is especially important in traditional surrogacy. Attorneys for both sides draft agreements that cover:

• Parental rights of the intended parents.

• Responsibilities during pregnancy.

• Surrogate compensation for time, effort, and medical costs.

In some regions, traditional surrogacy may be restricted or require specific legal procedures after birth. Understanding local laws is vital to avoid complications.

Step 4: The Insemination Process

Once the legal groundwork is complete, the medical process begins. In traditional surrogacy:

1. The surrogate tracks her cycle and prepares for insemination.

2. Fertility specialists perform intrauterine insemination (IUI) using the intended father’s or donor’s sperm.

3. The surrogate undergoes monitoring to confirm pregnancy.

Compared to IVF, this method is often simpler, though it still requires professional medical oversight.

Step 5: Pregnancy and Support

After a successful insemination, the pregnancy follows much like any other. The surrogate attends regular prenatal appointments to ensure her health and the baby’s development. During this stage, emotional support is especially important.

Surrogacy without an agency can add challenges, as intended parents and the surrogate must manage communication and logistics themselves. Counseling and support groups can make this process smoother and more positive for everyone involved.

Step 6: Birth and Transfer of Parental Rights

When the baby is born, legal procedures finalize the transfer of parental rights. Depending on state or country laws, this might involve:

• A pre-birth order, which establishes the intended parents as legal guardians before delivery.

• A post-birth adoption process, particularly if local laws don’t allow pre-birth orders in traditional surrogacy.

This step ensures the intended parents are recognized as the child’s legal guardians, while the surrogate’s rights are clearly defined.

Emotional Considerations in Traditional Surrogacy

The emotional journey of traditional surrogacy is often more complex than gestational surrogacy due to the biological link between surrogate and child. Surrogates may feel stronger attachments, while intended parents may experience anxiety about parental rights.

To manage this:

• Counseling is recommended for all parties.

• Clear communication throughout the pregnancy is essential.

• Strong support networks can help maintain emotional balance.

Acknowledging these challenges upfront makes the journey more positive and sustainable.

Traditional Surrogacy vs. Other Types of Surrogacy

When exploring the types of surrogacy, families often compare:

• Traditional Surrogacy: Surrogate’s egg is used, creating a genetic connection.

• Gestational Surrogacy: Embryo is transferred, no genetic connection with the surrogate.

• Altruistic Surrogacy: The surrogate carries without compensation beyond medical expenses.

Each type carries unique benefits and challenges. Traditional surrogacy stands out for its simpler medical process but requires greater legal and emotional preparation.

Benefits of Traditional Surrogacy

Despite its complexities, traditional surrogacy offers unique advantages:

• Less invasive medical procedures compared to IVF.

• Potentially quicker process when compared to embryo creation and transfer.

• Works well in independent surrogacy arrangements with trusted surrogates.

These benefits make it an option worth considering for families seeking alternative paths to parenthood.

Challenges of Traditional Surrogacy

At the same time, intended parents and surrogates should be aware of challenges:

• Stronger legal requirements due to the surrogate’s genetic link.

• Emotional considerations for the surrogate and her family.

• Limited availability in regions where laws restrict traditional surrogacy.

Being informed about these challenges helps families prepare for a realistic and successful journey.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the traditional surrogacy process requires looking at medical, legal, and emotional factors. While not as widely practiced as gestational surrogacy, it remains a meaningful option for families who value its simplicity and trust-based approach.

With proper screening, legal agreements, and emotional support, traditional surrogacy can create lasting bonds and bring joy to families seeking parenthood.