Are you planning on becoming a traditional surrogate in California?
You’ve come to the right place to learn.
Surrogacy is a practice that allows a woman to voluntarily carry a baby for an individual or couple that cannot conceive or would like to grow their family.
There are two types of surrogacy: traditional and gestational. Today, the preferred form of surrogacy is gestational because it is less complex biologically, emotionally, and legally.
However, there are instances where traditional surrogacy may be an option.
1. What Makes Traditional Surrogacy Different
Traditional surrogacy also known as genetic/partial/straight surrogacy involves the use of the surrogate’s egg to produce the baby. This results in the surrogate also being the child’s biological mother.
The surrogate is artificially inseminated with the donor or intended father’s sperm in lieu of expensive in vitro fertilization (IVF) processes.
The fact that the surrogate has a genetic link to the child means additional legal procedures must be undertaken where the surrogate renounces her parental rights. The intended parents also have to file for custody as stepparents.
2. Common Scenarios For A Traditional Surrogate In California
Because of its difficulties, most surrogacy agencies in California are not keen on traditional surrogacy. However, partial surrogacy may be an option for some people.
This is true in the case of same-sex male couples and single fathers who require an egg from a donor and therefore don’t mind the surrogate California being the biological mother. Having the surrogate donate her own eggs eliminates the cost involved with securing an egg.
Same-sex women who do not have healthy eggs of their own may also opt for traditional surrogacy.
Traditional surrogacy in all these scenarios can be a great option if the intended parent(s) already know the surrogate or have a close personal relationship with her.
3. Understanding The Legal Process
There are contracts to sign prior to starting any medical treatments and contracts to be signed after the birth. The contracts prior detail the surrogacy plan of both parties and what the agreed-upon terms and conditions are.
The contracts after involve the surrogate California relinquishing her parental rights. This contract also gives full custody to the intended parents. All contracts are to be reviewed by attorneys specialized in traditional surrogacy law.
4. Preparing For The Emotional Connection
The 1986 case where traditional surrogate Mary Beth Whitehead refused to cede custody of Melissa Stern, the baby she had carried revealed the emotional turmoil and difficulties surrogates may sometimes face when it’s time to hand over the child.
This is why counseling and emotional support are important pillars for the surrogate as she prepares for the emotionally taxing task of giving up her biological child. That’s why here at Joy of Life Surrogacy we walk with you on this journey. As both former intended parents and surrogates, we understand how you feel.
If you would like to learn more about traditional surrogacy and our services, contact us today.
