When you first explore surrogacy as an option to create your family, you’ll soon find yourself in a world of completely unfamiliar terms and acronyms. One of the first things you’ll need to learn as an intended parent (IP) or surrogate is the difference between traditional and gestational surrogacy. This distinction is important, both legally and emotionally.

In a traditional surrogacy, which is much less common than it used to be, the surrogate not only carries the pregnancy, she also provides the egg. This can prove problematic, because the surrogate will share genetic material with the child. This can create an emotional attachment and may even give her legal rights to the child.

In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate carries the pregnancy, but the egg is provided by the intended mother or an egg donor. In most states, this prevents the legal questions that may cause disputes that can occur in traditional surrogacy.

Traditional surrogacy can make the already ambiguous laws surrounding surrogacy even cloudier. Since there are no federal laws in the United States that cover surrogacy, states are left to their own devices.

That’s what makes it so important to work with a surrogacy agency that operates in the best interests of the intended parents, surrogate and future child. As a neutral go-between, a surrogacy agency can help you reach an agreement that takes the rights of all involved into account and provide guidance on steps you should take to protect yourself, such as engaging an attorney experienced in reproductive law.

Most reputable surrogacy agencies facilitate only gestational surrogacy because of the potential difficulties that can arise in traditional surrogacy. Surrogacy agencies are located throughout the country and can help you navigate the laws existing within the states they serve. For IPs considering surrogacy in Texas or Florida, Surrogate Solutions can help.

The experienced consultants at Surrogate Solutions will happily answer any questions or concerns you may have about gestational surrogacy, egg donation or becoming a surrogate. We love helping families and are here to help make your surrogacy journey smoother. Please contact us today.