Gestational vs. Traditional Surrogacy in Thailand: Navigating the Choices, Costs, and More

1. Understanding the Basics

Before we explore the cost implications of surrogacy in Thailand, let's clarify the fundamental differences between gestational and traditional surrogacy:

1.1. Gestational Surrogacy

In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate mother carries a pregnancy for intended parents using an embryo created through in vitro fertilization (IVF). The surrogate has no genetic connection to the child, as the embryo is typically created using the intended parents' or donor gametes.

1.2. Traditional Surrogacy

Traditional surrogacy involves the surrogate mother being both the gestational carrier and the genetic mother of the child. This means that the surrogate's own egg is fertilized with the intended father's sperm or donor sperm through artificial insemination.

2. Legal Framework in Thailand

Thailand has seen significant changes in its surrogacy laws in recent years. In 2015, the Thai government banned commercial surrogacy for foreign couples, causing upheaval in the surrogacy industry. However, altruistic surrogacy, where the surrogate is not paid beyond medical expenses and the process is done on a non-commercial basis, is still permitted.

2.1. Gestational Surrogacy

Gestational surrogacy is the preferred method in Thailand for both domestic and international intended parents. This is primarily because it aligns more closely with the country's current surrogacy regulations. In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate has no genetic connection to the child, which is in line with Thai law.

2.2. Traditional Surrogacy

Traditional surrogacy is less common in Thailand due to the legal complications it can pose. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate is also the genetic mother, which can create legal and emotional complexities.

3. Cost Considerations

The cost of surrogacy in Thailand can vary significantly depending on the type of surrogacy chosen. Let's break down the financial aspects of both gestational and traditional surrogacy:

3.1. Gestational Surrogacy Costs

• Medical Expenses: The primary cost driver in gestational surrogacy is the medical expenses associated with IVF, including egg retrieval, fertilization, and embryo transfer. These procedures can range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the specific clinic and services required.
• Surrogate Compensation: While altruistic surrogacy doesn't involve substantial compensation to the surrogate, intended parents are expected to cover her medical and pregnancy-related expenses. These expenses can vary widely but typically range from $5,000 to $10,000.
• Legal Fees: Engaging legal professionals to ensure compliance with Thai surrogacy laws is essential. Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $10,000.
• Agency Fees: Many intended parents work with surrogacy agencies to navigate the complex surrogacy process. Agency fees in Thailand can range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more.
• Additional Costs: These may include travel expenses, accommodation, and other incidentals. Budgeting an additional $5,000 to $10,000 is advisable.

3.2. Traditional Surrogacy Costs

• Medical Expenses: Traditional surrogacy may involve fewer medical procedures compared to gestational surrogacy. Artificial insemination costs can vary but are generally lower than IVF, typically ranging from $3,000 to $6,000.
• Surrogate Compensation: Similar to gestational surrogacy, intended parents are responsible for covering the surrogate's medical and pregnancy-related expenses. These can range from $5,000 to $10,000.
• Legal Fees: Legal assistance is crucial in traditional surrogacy due to the added complexities of genetic relationships. Legal fees can be in the same range as those for gestational surrogacy, around $5,000 to $10,000.
• Agency Fees: Intended parents who choose to work with surrogacy agencies will incur similar agency fees as in gestational surrogacy, ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 or more.
• Additional Costs: As with gestational surrogacy, additional expenses for travel and accommodation should be considered, with a budget of $5,000 to $10,000.

Conclusion

The choice between gestational and traditional surrogacy in Thailand is a multifaceted decision that involves legal, medical, emotional, and financial considerations. While gestational surrogacy aligns more closely with Thai surrogacy regulations and may be perceived as medically safer, it is generally more expensive due to IVF costs. Traditional surrogacy, while potentially more cost-effective, can introduce legal and emotional complexities.

Read more The Cost of Surrogacy in Thailand: A Comprehensive Guide (healthtrip.com)