FAQs

A gestational surrogate has no genetic connection to the child. A gestational surrogate is implanted with a fertilized embryo using the intended mother’s egg, or a donated egg, whereas a traditional surrogate is inseminated with the intended father’s sperm, and uses her own egg for the development of the embryo. Due to the genetic connection of the traditional surrogate, the surrogate then relinquishes rights to custody of the child through adoption, with a gestational surrogate the Intended Parents would have their names placed on the birth certificate, with either a pre-birth order or post-birth agreement.

VSN does not offer traditional surrogacy. It is the view of VSN that traditional surrogacy is legally risky, and can be emotionally devastating to both the carrier and the intended parents. By only offering gestational surrogates, the surrogate has no genetic connection with the child and does not have the same legal rights to the child. Further, traditional surrogates are more likely to establish strong emotional bonds with the child and to experience great loss upon the transfer of the child to the intended parents. These emotional and legal complications are greatly reduced using gestational carriers who are not genetically related to the child.

Many Intended Parents use Gestational Surrogates because the Intended mother is not able to carry the child herself due to health risks, age, or other medical reasons. In the case of gay couples, the support of an egg donor is needed alongside a Gestational Surrogate in order to produce a baby.

The process of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) is used in Gestational Surrogacy. Through this process, a fertilized embryo is implanted in the uterus. For more specific information, click here.

The answer to this question is unique to each case. Typically, the surrogacy process takes about a year from the time you are matched. The duration of time before a match depends upon what requirements the Intended Parents are looking for in a gestational carrier and carrier availability.

Vermont Surrogacy Network is pleased to serve all populations of individuals and couples looking to grow their family: same-sex couples, heterosexual couples, and single individuals.

Yes! Vermont Surrogacy Network requires the Gestational Surrogate to have separate legal representation for the Carrier Agreement and for any questions or legal needs she might have throughout the process of surrogacy. All legal fees and expenses for the Carrier Agreement and legal consultation are paid for by the Intended Parents.