When all things fail, IVF and surrogacy are both alternative methods of fulfilling your dream of becoming parents. The reason for the inability to conceive naturally can be due to a lot of causes, such as low sperm count, fallopian tube blockage, etc. But, which option is the better option? Keep reading to know more.
How does it work?
Surrogacy
Couples opt for surrogacy when they are unable to get pregnant by natural means. There are two types of surrogacy, partial and full surrogacy. In full surrogacy, the sperms and eggs of the couple are extracted and then implanted into the uterus of a surrogate mother. However, in partial surrogacy, the eggs used are that of the surrogate mother, which is naturally fertilized with the sperm of the male partner. But, unlike IVF, when you opt for surrogacy, the female partner will not be able to carry the child inside her uterus.
IVF
IVF or in vitro fertility is a treatment of infertility in either one of the partners or both of them. There are several divisions of IVF, which enables the female partner to conceive. During this treatment, the eggs of the female partner are fertilized with the sperm of the male partner in a laboratory and then implanted in the woman’s uterus. This is an excellent option if the female partner wants to experience the feeling of carrying her child inside her. For most people, this option feels more natural.
But, it is important to understand that the success rates of conception are higher in surrogacy when compared to IVF.
Risks involved
Surrogacy
• Multiple Births
• Ectopic pregnancy, i.e. the implantation takes place on the fallopian tube instead of the uterus, which can lead to a miscarriage
• Birth defects
• It can also be emotionally challenging for some surrogate mothers as the baby that they brought into the world will not be going home with them.
IVF
• Multiple Births
• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a condition where the ovaries become swollen and can cause severe pain
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Miscarriage
• Premature delivery and low birth weight
• Stress
At the end of the day, the decision is always up to you. Both the options come with a set of pros and cons, however, you must make sure you decide an option you are comfortable with.
