BUILDING FAMILIES THROUGH SURROGACY AND ASSISTED REPRODUCTION

For many families, the dream of having children is deeply personal and heartfelt. As adoption opportunities have slowed in recent years, many families are exploring alternatives to adoption to achieve their dream of parenthood.

One option that has become increasingly common in Kansas and throughout the Midwest is surrogacy, including the use of gestational carriers. Advances in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) have made these paths more accessible than ever before.

SURROGACY VS. GESTATIONAL CARRIER: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

The terms surrogacy and gestational carrier are often used interchangeably, but they describe different arrangements.

  • TRADITIONAL SURROGACY: A surrogate is artificially inseminated with the intended father’s sperm and carries the child. Because the surrogate’s egg is used, she has a genetic link to the child and the legal protections of a birth mother.
  • GESTATIONAL SURROGACY: A gestational carrier carries an embryo created through in vitro fertilization (IVF). The embryo may come from the intended parents’ egg and sperm, or through the use of donated eggs, sperm, or embryos. The carrier has no genetic connection to the child.
Close up of a embryo

EMBRYO ADOPTION

Another option is embryo adoption, where intended parents adopt embryos from another family and carry the pregnancy themselves. In this case, the parent who carries the pregnancy has no genetic connection to the child, but experiences pregnancy and childbirth directly.

LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS IN KANSAS

The laws surrounding surrogacy, gestational carriers, and embryo adoption vary by state, and in Kansas, these arrangements carry specific legal requirements. For this reason, it is essential to consult an experienced attorney in the state where the surrogate or carrier resides. Agencies and attorneys play a key role in ensuring that the process complies with the law, protects all parties involved, and safeguards the intended parents’ parental rights.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PATH FOR YOUR FAMILY

If you are considering surrogacy or another alternative to adoption, it’s important to ask the right questions early:

  • Do you have viable eggs, sperm, or embryos?
  • Will you need a surrogate or gestational carrier?
  • Have you spoken with a fertility clinic about medical requirements?
  • Do you have a friend or family member willing to help with sperm, eggs, embryos, or as a surrogate or carrier, or will you need agency support?
  • Have you discussed the legal implications with an attorney?

Being fully informed about the medical, legal, and financial aspects will help you make the best decision for your family.

Evening sunset over hills and trees

BECOMING A SURROGATE OR CARRIER

Some individuals feel called to help others build their families by serving as a surrogate or gestational carrier. If you are interested, agencies and ART/adoption attorneys can guide you through the process and requirements.

HOW WE CAN HELP

Every family’s path to parenthood looks different. Whether through adoption, surrogacy, or embryo adoption, the journey requires patience, education, and the right support. Our firm is here to provide clear legal guidance, protect your rights, and walk with you every step of the way.

If you are considering surrogacy or exploring alternatives to adoption, contact Martin Pringle’s surrogacy and adoption team to schedule a consultation. Together, we can help you find the best path forward for you and your family.

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