What is a gestational carrier?
If a woman is unable to become pregnant or sustain a pregnancy, she has the option of using a gestational carrier. A gestational carrier (once referred to as a 'surrogate' or 'gestational surrogate') agrees to carry and give birth to the child of another woman.
Who may need a gestational carrier?
A gestational carrier may be recommended when the female partner:
- Does not have a uterus
- Has an abnormal uterine cavity
- Has had several recurrent miscarriages
- Have had recurrent failed IVF cycles
- Has a medical issue for which pregnancy is not advised
What is the role of a gestational carrier?
The gestational carrier provides a 'host uterus' for the offspring, however, she does not contribute genetic material.The recipient parent(s) may use their own egg and sperm or, depending on the situation, use donor egg and sperm.
When using an egg donor with a gestational carrier to achieve pregnancy, the recipient is referred to as the "intended parent(s)," indicating that it is the intention of all parties that the recipient is the legal parent(s) of the offspring. The gestational carrier sustains the pregnancy through the point of delivery.
Finding an egg donor and gestational carrier.
Egg donors and gestational carriers are traditionally found through agencies that specialize in this type of service. Such agencies are equipped with the necessary medical and counseling staff, and can also help patients with legal and other logistical matters involved in this process.
We are happy to work with our patients to find an egg donor through our own PFC Egg Donor Agency.
Although Pacific Fertility Center does not act as an agency for gestational carriers, we can refer patients to a number of reputable agencies. Some gestational carrier agencies may provide both gestational carriers and egg donors.