We are frequently questioned if surrogate mothers share DNA with the baby. The answer differs depending on the type of surrogacy being referenced.
There are two main types of surrogacies: traditional and gestational.
In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate mother is inseminated with the intended father’s sperm, making her the biological mother, and sharing DNA with the baby.
However, in gestational surrogacy, an embryo created from the intended parents’ (or donors’) egg and sperm is implanted into the surrogate. Gestational surrogates and babies share no DNA.
This distinction is necessary to understand for anyone exploring surrogacy as an option for building their family.
Here at The Fertility Agency, we only work with gestational surrogates.
Understanding Gestational Surrogacy
As noted, in gestational surrogacy, an embryo created from the intended parents’ (or donors’) egg and sperm is implanted into a surrogate mother. To clarify, the surrogate carries the baby, but she is not who contributes DNA in surrogacy.
Agencies choose to work with gestational surrogates for three main reasons:
- No Genetic Connection: Simplifies emotional and psychological aspects.
- Legal Simplicity: Easier legal process without genetic ties, avoiding complex custody issues.
- Clear Agreements: Reduces potential disputes, ensuring intended parents’ rights from birth.
Gestational surrogacy offers a secure and legally straightforward path to parenthood, making it the preferred choice for most agencies.
IVF Process
Ever wondered how IVF works in gestational surrogacy? Let us break it down for you!
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a process where eggs are fertilized by sperm outside the body, creating embryos that are then implanted into the uterus. It is a key part of all gestational surrogacy journeys.
In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate carries the embryo but has no genetic connection to it. The embryo’s DNA comes solely from the intended parents or donors. This means the surrogate’s blood and DNA do not mix with the baby’s, ensuring no genetic link.
Genes & Genetic Expression
To get a better understanding of how this all works, it is important to understand the difference between genes and gene expression.
Genes are DNA segments that determine our traits and influence our health. Gene expression is how genes create proteins, influenced by factors like environment and lifestyle.
While a gestational surrogate mother does not pass on genes, her health and environment can influence how the baby’s genes are expressed. This highlights the surrogate’s role in the baby’s development and displays why the surrogate’s regime while and before carrying matters.
How a Surrogate Can Influence a Baby’s Gene Expression Without Contributing DNA
Epigenetics explores how a surrogate’s environment can influence a baby’s gene expression without altering the DNA itself. As noted, this means that while the surrogate does not share DNA with the baby, her lifestyle and surroundings can still impact the baby’s development.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is a main part of the journey and the surrogacy selection process.
During and prior to the journey, surrogates should make sure they focus on…
- Proper nutrition to ensure that the baby gets vital nutrients for growth.
- Having a supportive environment to help reduce stress.
- Maintaining safe conditions, such as avoiding harmful substances.
To ensure these conditions are met, most surrogacy agencies conduct thorough screenings. These include medical evaluations to confirm the surrogate’s physical health, psychological assessments to ensure emotional stability, and background checks to verify that the surrogate has a staunch support system.
These measures help create the best possible environment for the baby’s development, highlighting the surrogate’s vital role in the process.
FAQs About Surrogate Baby DNA
We want to acknowledge that gestational surrogacy is a complex topic. We understand why many individuals have questions related to DNA and the logistics behind the process.
Due to that, we want to address common FAQs we receive from potential surrogates and intended parents.
Does a Surrogate Share Blood With the Baby?
No. Gestational surrogates do not share blood with the baby.
The placenta acts as a barrier between the surrogate’s blood and the baby’s blood. Nutrients and oxygen pass through the placenta to the baby, but the blood supplies remain separate, ensuring no direct blood exchange.
Can a Surrogate’s Health Impact Gene Expression in the Baby?
Yes! A surrogate’s health can impact gene expression in the baby. Factors like the surrogate’s diet, stress levels, and overall environment can influence how the baby’s genes are expressed, affecting the baby’s development and health.
How Are Nutrients and Oxygen Transferred from the Surrogate to the Developing Fetus?
As briefly mentioned, the placenta delivers nutrients and oxygen to the baby via diffusion, without any direct contact between the surrogate’s and baby’s blood.
Why is a Healthy Lifestyle Important for a Surrogate?
A healthy lifestyle directly affects and influences the baby’s genetic expressions. Having a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and mental health support help optimize the health outcomes for the baby and are a vital part of the surrogacy journey.
How Does Surrogacy Affect the Child?
In terms of the impacts of surrogacy on a child, the healthier a surrogate is, the more likely it is for a healthy baby. This is the same case with any pregnancy.
Regarding possible psychological impacts of surrogacy on children, this is a common misconception about surrogacy.
For instance, studies, such as one conducted at Oxford University, have found no evidence that surrogacy has an impact on the psychological state of a child or their relationship with their mother.
Surrogacy has no long-term impact on psychological well-being, especially when parents are transparent about the process with their children.
Consider Surrogacy With The Fertility Agency
Here at The Fertility Agency, we would love to guide you through this journey, either as a surrogate or as an intended parent seeking a surrogate.
Our expertise and 20 years of experience sets us apart from other agencies. Our team is comprised of former surrogates who are extremely dedicated to their roles.
Reach out to us if you are interested in becoming a surrogate with our agency or if you are seeking a surrogate seeking a surrogate!
We are so grateful to be able to help families in this amazing way!
