About Surrogacy & Assisted Reproductive Technology (A.R.T.)
Current statistics show that 1 in 8 women are affected by infertility. Many of these women choose to pursue surrogacy or other methods involving A.R.T. Aware of the stress and frustration that have been experienced by many of her clients by the time they meet her, Sara Clay uses a personalized approach aimed and listening and understanding her clients’ questions and concerns. Her goal is to help intended parents understand the different options they have regarding surrogacy and make sure they understand the process and possible consequences involved. All the while, she strives to fulfill the role of a knowledgeable friend, as well as that of a trusted surrogate lawyer.
Most surrogate arrangements end in resounding success. However, due to privacy considerations, the general public rarely hears these inspiring stories. Thus, many people unfortunately associate surrogacy with rare but highly publicized cases in which a surrogate parent elects not to voluntarily surrender the child she has carried on behalf of the intended parents. It is important for parents considering surrogacy to understand that such cases represent the extremely rare exception and not the rule.
Types of Surrogacy
Traditional (Surrogate Egg Donation)
Third-Party Egg Donation DONOR SURROGACY
Gestational Surrogacy:
Gestational Surrogacy occurs when the intended parents use their own sperm and eggs, which are fertilized in vitro (in a test tube). The embryos are then surgically implanted into the uterus of the surrogate mother, who will then carry the child to term. Following birth, the surrogate mother surrenders the child to the intended parents. In turn, the surrogate and (if applicable) the surrogate’s husband are relieved of any legal parental responsibility regarding the child.
This method of surrogacy is available to only certain parents. The mother must be capable of producing eggs suitable for reproduction and the father must be capable of producing viable sperm. Such parents are capable of both being genetic parents but due to a physiological problem the mother is unable to carry a pregnancy to term. Thus, the couple enlists the services of a surrogate.
Traditional Surrogacy:
Traditional Surrogacy involves the use of the surrogate mother’s eggs. This method is used when the intended mother is incapable of producing an egg suitable for reproduction. The reproductive specialist uses sperm from the intended father (or in the case of an individual intended mother) or a sperm donor to fertilize an egg from the surrogate in vitro (in a test tube). The fertilized egg is then surgically implanted in the surrogate’s uterus, so that the surrogate mother can carry the baby to term. Following birth, the surrogate mother surrenders the child to the intended parent or parents. In turn, the surrogate and (if applicable) the surrogate’s husband are relieved of any legal parental responsibility regarding the child. This method is available to heterosexual couples, same-sex couples, and individuals.
Third-Party Egg Donor:
A Third-Party Egg Donor surrogacy involves an egg donor other than the intended mother or the surrogate mother. The reproductive specialist fertilizes the egg of a third woman with the sperm of the intended father or (in the case of an individual intended mother) a sperm donor in vitro (in a test tube). The fertilized egg is then surgically implanted in the uterus of a separate surrogate, who will carry the baby to term. Following birth, the surrogate mother surrenders the child to the intended parents. In turn, the surrogate and (if applicable) the surrogate’s husband are relieved of any legal parental responsibility regarding the child. This method is available to heterosexual couples, same-sex couples, and individuals.
“I have total respect for Sara Clay's commitment and service to her clients. She knows what she is doing. She follows through on anything she tackles… That is why she is so highly regarded.”
Diane Woods
Private Attorney, Marietta, GA
Resources
The following websites can provide valuable information for prospective intended parents regarding Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy. They include surrogacy agencies and advocacy groups devoted to providing support and information.
Medical Resources:
The American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)
Medical Practices:
Atlanta Center for Reproductive Medicine
Georgia Reproductive Specialists
Reproductive Biology Associates
Center for Applied Reproductive Science
Feminist Women's Health Clinic
Agencies:
Center for Surrogate Parenting and Egg Donation
Advocacy Groups: