Gestational Carrier & Surrogacy

love makes a family

what is a gestational carrier?

A gestational carrier (also known as a gestational surrogate) is a woman who carries a pregnancy for intended parents using an embryo created through in vitro fertilization (IVF). The gestational carrier has no genetic relationship to the child.

At Marin Fertility Center, gestational carrier arrangements are part of advanced fertility care and may be recommended in cases where pregnancy is not medically possible or safe.

Gestational carrier cycles are performed using IVF, often in combination with comprehensive fertility testing and medical evaluation to ensure optimal outcomes for both the carrier and intended parents.

who might consider gestational surrogacy?

Various individuals and couples may consider using a gestational carrier as part of a personalized fertility and surrogacy pathway.

Couples Facing Infertility

Couples experiencing infertility that makes pregnancy difficult may pursue gestational surrogacy as a pathway to biological parenthood.

Uterine Conditions

Fibroids, uterine scarring, or structural abnormalities may prevent carrying a pregnancy, making surrogacy a potential option.

Same-Sex Couples

Same-sex male couples may choose gestational surrogacy to have a child genetically related to one or both partners.

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

Individuals or couples with repeated miscarriages may consider gestational surrogacy to improve the chances of a successful pregnancy outcome.

Individuals with Certain Medical Conditions

Patients with medical conditions such as lupus, diabetes, or cardiac disease may avoid pregnancy risks but still pursue parenthood through surrogacy.

Gestational surrogacy offers a medically supported option for individuals and couples facing a range of reproductive challenges, providing a pathway to parenthood with a biological connection to the child.

Selecting a gestational carrier is a highly personal and important step within the surrogacy process. Intended parents typically follow a structured and thoughtful process to identify a carrier aligned with their values, expectations, and goals.

Key factors include the carrier’s physical health, psychological readiness, and prior pregnancy history. Compatibility in lifestyle, communication style, and expectations is essential for building a supportive and collaborative relationship throughout the journey.

Open communication and a shared commitment to the health of both the carrier and the future child are central to successful surrogacy outcomes.

Ultimately, choosing a gestational carrier involves trust, alignment, and the shared goal of achieving a healthy pregnancy and birth.

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a higher standard of care

Marin Fertility Center is committed to delivering a higher standard of care throughout the gestational carrier journey. Guided by Dr. Uzelac’s unique background in Maternal Fetal Medicine and high-risk pregnancy management, our acceptance criteria for surrogacy candidates exceed standard industry benchmarks.

Our rigorous evaluation process includes detailed medical screening of both gestational carriers and the agencies representing them. We collaborate with select professionals who bring deep expertise in identifying qualified surrogacy candidates and understanding the complexities of the surrogacy landscape.

By aligning with Dr. Uzelac’s philosophy of elevated selection standards, these partnerships contribute to a more structured experience for intended parents and increase the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy and baby.

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FAQ

How is a gestational carrier different from a traditional surrogate?

A gestational carrier uses an embryo created through IVF using the eggs and sperm of the intended parents or donors. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate is also the egg source and is genetically related to the child. Marin Fertility Center does not offer traditional surrogacy.

How is a gestational carrier selected?

The selection process includes evaluation of physical health, emotional readiness, prior pregnancy experience, and compatibility with intended parents. Marin Fertility Center applies advanced screening protocols that exceed standard surrogacy guidelines.

What are the legal aspects of surrogacy?

Legal requirements vary by jurisdiction but typically include contracts outlining rights and responsibilities. Legal professionals are required to ensure compliance and clarity.

What psychological assessments are involved?

Gestational carriers undergo psychological evaluation to confirm readiness for the emotional and physical aspects of the surrogacy process.

What role do intended parents play during surrogacy?

Intended parents are actively involved throughout the surrogacy journey, including carrier selection, donor decisions if applicable, and ongoing communication during pregnancy.

What are the risks of gestational surrogacy?

Potential risks include medical complications, legal considerations, and emotional stress. Structured screening and selection protocols help reduce these risks.

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