Difference Between Traditional & Gestational Surrogacy

AI Summary Box

• Definitions and key differences between traditional and gestational surrogacy
• Why people choose to become surrogates
• How long each type of surrogacy process takes
• Step-by-step breakdown of the surrogacy journey
• Role of a trusted egg donor agency
• Benefits of understanding both paths
• 10 FAQs about traditional vs. gestational surrogacy
• Conclusion and next steps

Why Become a Surrogate

Many women consider surrogacy out of compassion, empathy, or a desire to help others experience the joy of parenthood. Whether you are drawn toward traditional or gestational surrogacy, the motivation is often rooted in generosity, connection, and the meaningful opportunity to support a growing family.

Understanding the differences between the two types empowers surrogates to choose the pathway that best fits their emotional, medical, and personal goals.

How Long Does the Process Take?

The timeline for both traditional and gestational surrogacy is similar overall, but depending on the medical and legal steps involved, timing may vary slightly.

Typical duration:

• Initial screening and matching: 4–8 weeks
• Medical and psychological evaluation: 2–6 weeks
• Legal preparation and contracts: 2–8 weeks
• Pregnancy and birth: Approximately 9 months
• Final parental orders and post-birth legal processes: 2–6 weeks

Total time from first inquiry to completion averages 6 months to 14 months depending on matching and medical scheduling.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Initial Inquiry & Screening

Discuss your intentions and eligibility with a trusted agency to determine which surrogacy type aligns with your goals.

2. Medical Evaluation

Health assessments ensure you are physically ready for pregnancy.

3. Psychological Evaluation

Emotional readiness and support needs are assessed as part of the process.

4. Matching with Intended Parents

A careful match ensures shared expectations, communication style, and mutual respect.

5. Legal Contracts and Agreements

Contracts outline rights, responsibilities, parentage intentions, and financial arrangements.

6. Conception and Pregnancy

• Traditional Surrogacy: Surrogate’s own egg is used with intended father’s sperm or donor sperm.
• Gestational Surrogacy: An embryo created via IVF using intended parents’ or donor gametes is transferred to the surrogate.

7. Prenatal Care and Monitoring

Regular medical appointments help ensure your health and the baby’s development.

8. Birth and Parental Orders

Legal parentage is finalized according to provincial requirements.

Traditional Surrogacy vs. Gestational Surrogacy

Traditional surrogacy and gestational surrogacy differ primarily in the biological relationship between the surrogate and the child. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate uses her own egg, which means she is genetically related to the baby. Conception typically occurs through intrauterine insemination (IUI) or, in some cases, IVF. Because of the genetic connection, traditional surrogacy can involve more complex emotional and legal considerations.

In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate carries an embryo created through IVF using the egg and sperm of the intended parents or donors. The surrogate has no genetic link to the baby, which generally simplifies legal parentage arrangements and is why gestational surrogacy is the more common approach in Canada. Understanding these differences helps surrogates and intended parents choose the path that best aligns with their medical needs, emotional comfort, and legal clarity.

Trusted Egg Donor Agency

Working with a trusted egg donor and surrogacy agency brings expertise, organization, and personalized support. Agencies help with:

• Education on surrogacy types
• Matching and coordination
• Medical appointments
• Legal resources and referrals
• Emotional support and guidance

Their experience ensures you understand the steps, responsibilities, and expectations involved in either type of surrogacy, helping you move through the process with confidence and clarity.

Benefits of Understanding Both Paths

• Empowered decision-making
• Clear expectations from the start
• Reduced confusion or surprises
• Better communication with intended parents
• Smooth navigation of legal and medical steps

Knowing the differences makes it easier to choose the path that aligns with your intentions, needs, and comfort level.

FAQs

Q. What is traditional surrogacy?

Ans. Traditional surrogacy uses the surrogate’s own egg, creating a genetic link to the child.

Q. What is gestational surrogacy?

Ans. Gestational surrogacy uses an embryo created via IVF from intended parent or donor eggs — and the surrogate carries the pregnancy without a genetic link.

Q. Which type is more common in Canada?

Ans. Gestational surrogacy is more common due to clearer legal frameworks.

Q. Are both types legal in Canada?

Ans. Yes, both are legal, but laws focus on intent and must be navigated with legal support.

Q. Does traditional surrogacy have more legal complexity?

Ans. It can, due to the genetic relationship between surrogate and child.

Q. How does parentage work for gestational surrogacy?

Ans. Parental orders confirm the intended parents’ legal rights after birth.

Q. Is gestational surrogacy safer?

Ans. Both types follow medical screening; safety depends on individual health profiles.

Q. Do intended parents have to pay for medical costs?

Ans. Yes, intended parents cover medical and approved reimbursement costs as agreed in the contract.

Q. Can a surrogate change her mind?

Ans. Legal consent and timelines are critical; consult legal counsel for rights and obligations.

Q. Is psychological support recommended?

Ans. Yes, emotional support is helpful for all surrogates regardless of surrogacy type.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between traditional and gestational surrogacy is an essential step in choosing the surrogacy path that aligns with your goals, values, and emotional readiness. While both pathways offer the opportunity to help others build a family, gestational surrogacy — with its clear legal framework and common use in Canada — is often the preferred route for many.

With guidance from a trusted egg donor and surrogacy agency, you gain clarity, support, and confidence from your first inquiry through to a successful birth and legal finalization. Surrogacy — whether traditional or gestational — remains an empowering and impactful way to make parenthood possible for hopeful families.