Success rate of surrogacy in the United States

The success rate of surrogacy in the United States is a complex issue with no single definitive answer. Several factors influence the overall outcome, making it difficult to provide a precise percentage. These factors include the specific type of surrogacy (gestational or traditional), the fertility clinic’s expertise, the intended parents’ health, and the surrogate’s health.

Gestational Surrogacy: This is the most common type, where the surrogate carries a pregnancy using a fertilized egg from the intended parents (or a donor egg). The success rate for gestational surrogacy is largely dependent on the success of the IVF procedure used to create the embryo. IVF success rates themselves vary, typically ranging from 30% to 60% per cycle, depending on factors such as the age of the intended mother (if her eggs are used), the quality of the eggs or embryos, and the experience of the fertility clinic. Therefore, while the pregnancy may be successful after implantation, the overall “success rate” incorporating IVF and the subsequent pregnancy, might be lower.

Traditional Surrogacy: This less common type involves the surrogate using her own egg, which is then fertilized with the intended father’s sperm. This approach carries the additional complication of the surrogate having a genetic connection to the child. The success rate is similar to a natural conception and thus harder to isolate within the context of surrogacy.

Factors Influencing Success: Beyond IVF success rates, several other factors impact the overall success rate of a surrogacy arrangement:

• Surrogate’s Health: A healthy surrogate significantly increases the chances of a successful pregnancy and delivery.
• Intended Parents’ Health: The health of the intended parents (or the egg donor) is crucial for successful embryo development and implantation.
• Fertility Clinic Expertise: The experience and expertise of the fertility clinic conducting the IVF procedures and managing the surrogacy process are vital. Different clinics have varying success rates.
• Legal and Contractual Aspects: While not a medical factor, the clarity and strength of the legal and contractual agreements between the intended parents and the surrogate play a vital role in the overall success of the process. Potential legal complications can create stress and strain.

Conclusion: Due to the complex interplay of these factors, it’s impossible to provide a single, universally accurate success rate for surrogacy in the United States. While pregnancy success rates after embryo implantation are relatively high, the overall success rate considering IVF and the entire surrogacy process is significantly lower and varies considerably depending on the circumstances. Prospective parents should thoroughly research and consult with fertility specialists to obtain a personalized estimate based on their specific situation. They should also understand that even with a “successful” pregnancy, unforeseen complications can still arise.