There are many ways for couples and single people who are having trouble getting pregnant to start a family, thanks to progress in medicine. Two of the most commonly discussed paths are IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) and surrogacy. While both can help individuals achieve parenthood, they are distinct in their procedures, roles, and emotional journeys. Understanding the difference between IVF and surrogacy is essential for anyone exploring fertility solutions.
What is IVF?
In vitro fertilization, or IVF, is a way to treat infertility in which sperm are put into an egg outside of the body, in a lab. The embryo that is made is then put into a woman’s uterus, where it might grow into a safe baby. This method is used by many same-sex couples who are having trouble getting pregnant, as well as people who want to preserve their fertility by freezing their eggs or sperm.
The IVF process involves several steps:
- Ovarian stimulation – Hormone medicines are given to the woman to help her ovaries make more eggs.
- Egg retrieval – A small surgical technique is used to collect the eggs.
- Fertilization – In the lab, eggs and sperm are mixed together.
- Embryo transfer – There may be more than one baby put into the uterus.
- Pregnancy testing – A test is done after a couple of weeks to determine if implantation was successful.
IVF allows the intended mother (or another person carrying the pregnancy) to experience the physical aspects of pregnancy and childbirth, assuming she is medically able to carry a baby.
What is Surrogacy?
A surrogate is a woman who carries a baby and gives birth to it for another woman or women who want to have a child. It’s often thought about when a woman can’t carry a pregnancy because of health problems, has tried IVF several times but failed, or is in a relationship with a guy of the same gender.
There are two types of surrogacy:
- Traditional surrogacy – The surrogate uses her own egg, which makes her the real mother. This method isn’t used as much these days because it’s harder to handle legally and emotionally.
- Gestational surrogacy – Through IVF, an embryo made from the egg and sperm of the intended parents or donors is put into the surrogate. The surrogate has nothing to do with the genes of the child in this case.
Gestational surrogacy is the more common approach today and is typically coordinated through a fertility clinic, legal professionals, and surrogacy agencies to ensure all parties are protected.
Key Differences Between IVF and Surrogacy
While IVF and surrogacy can be connected—IVF is often used to create embryos for surrogacy—they are not the same. Here are the key differences:
- Who carries the baby: In IVF, the intended mother typically carries the pregnancy. In surrogacy, another woman does.
- Genetic link: IVF can involve the genetic material of the intended parents. In gestational surrogacy, the child can also be genetically related to the intended parents, but the surrogate is not.
- Medical involvement: IVF is a medical process that the intended mother goes through. In surrogacy, the surrogate undergoes the embryo transfer and pregnancy process.
- Emotional dynamics: IVF involves the intended mother’s emotional and physical investment in the pregnancy. Surrogacy adds another layer of complexity, as it involves coordination, trust, and legal agreements between multiple parties.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing between IVF and surrogacy depends on your individual circumstances, health history, and goals. Some women start with IVF and turn to surrogacy if unsuccessful. Others know from the beginning that surrogacy is their best path to parenthood.
Reproductive experts, like Dr. Eliran Mor, are very important when it comes to helping people and couples make these decisions. They help people understand their choices and make smart, sure decisions by knowing a lot about advanced fertility treatments.
Final Thoughts
IVF and adoption are both very helpful ways to become a parent. Each has its own medical, mental, and financial issues to think about. Knowing the differences between them can help you feel strong and hopeful as you look for the best way to start a family.
