In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in Surrogacy
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the main assisted reproduction techniques used in surrogacy processes, allowing couples and individuals facing fertility challenges to fulfill their dream of having a child.
What is In Vitro Fertilization?
The IVF procedure begins with the retrieval of eggs from a woman’s ovaries, which are then fertilized in a laboratory with sperm. Once fertilized, the resulting embryos are cultured until they reach the optimal stage for transfer into the surrogate’s uterus.
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
In cases where sperm has low motility or a reduced count, the intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) technique is recommended. This procedure involves injecting a single sperm directly into the egg, increasing the chances of fertilization and eliminating the need for artificial insemination.
Differences Between Traditional and Gestational Surrogacy
- Traditional surrogacy: The surrogate provides her own egg, allowing the use of artificial insemination with the intended father’s or a donor’s sperm.
- Gestational surrogacy: The surrogate has no biological connection to the baby. In this case, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is performed using the intended mother’s or a donor’s egg and the intended father’s sperm.
Thanks to advances in assisted reproduction techniques, surrogacy through IVF offers a safe and effective solution for those looking to start a family.
