The world of fertility treatments is vast. IVF, though, is one of the most popular, albeit elaborate, fertility treatments. Surrogacy, meanwhile, is a way to fulfil one woman’s dreams of motherhood through another.
Concerns, especially among new patients, about surrogacy, IVF and how these two terms are related are common. Irrespective of whether you are seeking your treatment in Delhi or at an IVF centre in Amritsar, it is best to know all you can about the treatment.
Here is a guide to understanding surrogacy and IVF.
What is IVF?
IVF, or in vitro fertilization, refers to the process of fertilizing eggs in a laboratory. This process is recommended for various fertility issues. Once fertilization is achieved, the embryo is kept under observation for a few days to monitor its development. It is later placed into the uterus of the female candidate, which eventually leads to pregnancy.
IVF is useful for couples with issues like unexplained fertility, sperm motility, sperm quality, endometriosis, and more. IVF success depends on several factors, but you can ensure a better experience by choosing a clinic that offers the best care. Look for the best IVF centre in Amritsar or the best IVF clinic in the region you live in.
What is Surrogacy?
Surrogacy is an option when a female patient is unable to carry the pregnancy for the full term. In such cases, the patient can choose a surrogate to carry the pregnancy for them.
There are two types of surrogacies: traditional surrogacy and gestational surrogacy.
- Traditional Surrogacy: When the surrogate acts as the carrier as well as the egg/oocyte donor, it is termed traditional surrogacy. In this case, the surrogate is the genetic mother of the offspring. This kind of surrogacy is used in cases where the female patient cannot provide the eggs. A couple where neither of the partners is female may also use traditional surrogacy. Apart from IVF, intrauterine insemination (IUI) is another way to achieve traditional surrogacy. IVF costs are usually higher than IUI.
- Gestational Surrogacy: In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate is only the carrier of the pregnancy. Female patients who have not been able to carry previous pregnancies to a full term, are at a higher risk of miscarriages or have had failed IVF cycles may consider this option. The carrier is genetically unrelated to the child.
Surrogacy & IVF
IVF is a requirement for gestational surrogacy but it is not needed in traditional surrogacy. Gestational surrogacy will require the candidates to choose a surrogate. Surrogacy laws differ from country to country, so it is best to ensure that you abide by all regulations. One way to ensure this is choosing an IVF centre in Amritsar, or your city, with a respectable track record and a high success rate.
Once the formalities and paperwork for the gestational surrogacy are completed, you and your partner must undergo IVF. Semen and eggs are collected from respective partners to use in vitro fertilization. Once successful embryo development is achieved, it is placed in the uterus of the surrogate.
Depending on the various factors, additional steps like Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) may be required. In some cases, more than one cycle of IVF is also needed. It may drive the IVF cost a little higher, so stay prepared for such possibilities as well.
Elaborate processes like IVF and surrogacy are bound to take a toll on the physical and mental health of everyone involved. It is important to take the best care of yourself during this phase and seek support if necessary.
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