What Is Gestational Surrogacy?

What Is Gestational Surrogacy? Full Explanation for Families

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Gestational surrogacy is one of the most advanced methods of assisted reproduction. It allows couples and individuals facing infertility, genetic conditions, or other medical challenges to have a biological child with the help of a surrogate mother.
In this process, the surrogate carries a pregnancy created through in vitro fertilization (IVF), using the eggs and sperm of the intended parents or donors. Importantly, the surrogate has no genetic connection to the baby — making this method legally and ethically safer compared to traditional surrogacy.

Gestational vs. Traditional Surrogacy

It is important to understand the distinction between the two types of surrogacy:

• Traditional Surrogacy: The surrogate uses her own egg, making her both the genetic and birth mother. This method is legally complicated and rarely practiced today.
• Gestational Surrogacy: The surrogate carries an embryo created from the intended parents’ or donors’ genetic material. She is not genetically related to the child.

Because gestational surrogacy eliminates genetic ties between the surrogate and the baby, it has become the most widely accepted and legally recognized method in many countries, including Ukraine.

Who Can Become a Gestational Surrogate?

Surrogates must meet specific requirements to ensure both their own safety and the success of the pregnancy. Common criteria include:

• Age between 21 and 36 years (in some cases up to 40, with medical approval).
• Having at least one healthy biological child.
• Good physical and mental health without chronic conditions.
• Healthy lifestyle — no smoking, substance abuse, or serious addictions.
• Willingness to follow medical advice and attend regular check-ups.

Every candidate undergoes thorough medical and psychological screening before joining the program.

How the Gestational Surrogacy Process Works

The surrogacy process is carefully structured to ensure safety and success. Here is a typical timeline:

Benefits for Intended Parents

Gestational surrogacy offers unique advantages for couples and individuals who dream of parenthood:

• Biological connection: The baby can share genetic material with one or both parents.
• Legal security: In countries like Ukraine, intended parents are recognized as legal parents from birth.
• High success rates: Modern IVF technology increases chances of pregnancy.
• Inclusive options: Programs are available for international couples facing infertility.

Medical and Emotional Considerations

While gestational surrogacy is safe and widely practiced, it still requires careful preparation:

• Ovarian stimulation may cause temporary side effects like bloating or mood changes.
• Egg retrieval is a minor medical procedure, performed under anesthesia.
• Pregnancy carries general health risks, which are minimized through regular medical check-ups.
• Emotional readiness is essential for surrogates to handle the journey responsibly.

Gestational Surrogacy in Ukraine

Ukraine has become one of the most popular destinations for international surrogacy. The country offers:

• Clear legislation that recognizes intended parents as legal guardians at birth;
• Affordable programs (from $40,000 to $60,000, significantly lower than in the US);
• Modern fertility clinics with advanced technologies and experienced doctors;
• Comprehensive support for both surrogates and intended parents, including legal assistance and medical care.

At Militta, we provide personalized surrogacy programs in Kyiv, ensuring safety, transparency, and professional guidance at every stage.

FAQ: What You Need to Know About Gestational Surrogacy