Top 5 Myths About Surrogacy and Egg Donation Debunked
TL;DR: Surrogacy and egg donation are often misunderstood because people mix up different types of surrogacy, assume outdated legal rules, or rely on “internet myths.” Here are five common misconceptions—and what to know instead—so you can plan with facts.
Myth 1: “The surrogate is the baby’s biological mother”
In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate (gestational carrier) is not genetically related to the baby. The embryo is created through IVF using the intended parent(s)’ and/or donors’ genetic material.
Important note: traditional surrogacy is different (the surrogate’s egg is used). It is less common in many modern programs and has different legal/ethical considerations.
Myth 2: “Egg donors automatically have parental rights”
Egg donation typically happens within a medical and legal framework designed to clarify roles and expectations. Parentage rules vary by state and situation, which is why assisted reproduction legal guidance matters.
If you’re exploring egg donation:
- Egg donor overview: /egg-donor
- Egg donor FAQs: /egg-donor/faqs
Myth 3: “Surrogacy is the same everywhere”
Surrogacy rules can differ significantly by state. Legal steps, parentage processes, and what paperwork is required can vary.
Start here:
- Laws and policies hub: /surrogacy/laws-and-policies
Myth 4: “Surrogacy is only for celebrities”
Many families pursue surrogacy for practical reasons, including:
- medical factors that make pregnancy unsafe or not possible,
- building families as LGBTQ+ intended parents,
- family planning after years of infertility challenges.
Myth 5: “Once you match, everything is automatic”
Matching is a big milestone, but a successful journey also depends on:
- clear communication and expectations,
- medical coordination with clinics,
- legal agreements and timelines,
- financial/escrow planning.
Helpful starting points:
- Intended parents basics: /intended-parents/basics
- Intended parents process: /intended-parents/process
- Surrogacy FAQs: /surrogacy/faqs
Next steps
If you want help separating myths from reality and building a plan that fits your goals, contact Patriot Conceptions.
FAQ
Quick answers based on this article. For personalized guidance, contact our team.
In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate (gestational carrier) is not genetically related to the baby—the embryo is created via IVF. Traditional surrogacy is different and is less common in many programs.
It depends on the donor program and the agreement. Some arrangements are anonymous, others are open/known. Your clinic and agency can explain the options.
Surrogacy laws vary by state. It’s important to plan with experienced legal counsel and review the rules for the state(s) involved.
Timelines vary based on matching, medical scheduling, and legal steps. Your agency and clinic can provide a realistic plan once you define your goals.
Start with /intended-parents/basics and /surrogacy/faqs, or contact our team if you’d like to talk through options.
About this article
Surrogacy is a legal and medical-adjacent topic. This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice.
Reviewed by Patriot Conceptions Editorial Team. Last reviewed Dec 15, 2025.
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