Do Surrogates Share DNA with the Baby?

By Dr. Kulsoom Baloch

Learn more about Dr. Baloch

Introduction

A common question people ask is whether a surrogate mother shares DNA with the baby she carries. The answer depends on the type of surrogacy. In modern fertility practices, the vast majority of surrogacies are gestational—meaning the surrogate carries the baby but is not genetically related to it.

Types of Surrogacy: Genetic Differences

• Traditional surrogacy: The surrogate uses her own egg and is genetically related to the baby.
• Gestational surrogacy: The surrogate carries an embryo created from the intended parents’ or donors’ gametes. She has no genetic connection to the baby.

Do Gestational Surrogates Share DNA?

No. In **gestational surrogacy**, the surrogate does not contribute an egg, so she does not share DNA with the baby. The embryo is transferred into her uterus via IVF, and her role is to nurture the pregnancy, not to contribute genetic material.

How Is the Baby’s DNA Determined?

The baby’s DNA comes from the egg and sperm used to create the embryo:

• If the intended mother’s egg and intended father’s sperm are used, the baby shares DNA with both.
• If an egg or sperm donor is used, the baby’s DNA comes from the donor and the other parent.

Why the Confusion Around DNA and Surrogacy?

Many people associate pregnancy with genetic ties. While this is true for traditional pregnancies, in gestational surrogacy, the uterus is simply the environment—not the genetic source. Even though the surrogate provides essential nutrients and support, her DNA does not mix with the baby’s.

Are There Any Traces of the Surrogate’s Cells in the Baby?

While **microchimerism** (the exchange of a small number of cells between mother and fetus) can occur during any pregnancy, these cells do not alter the baby’s genetic code. They may remain in the baby for years but have no impact on parentage or DNA lineage.

Does the Surrogate Appear on the Baby’s Birth Certificate?

In most surrogacy-friendly states and countries, a **pre-birth or post-birth order** is used to name the intended parents on the birth certificate—removing the surrogate’s legal parental status. This is part of the legal process supported by surrogacy agencies like Surrogacy4All.

Conclusion

In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate has **no genetic link** to the baby she carries. Her role is vital and nurturing, but the DNA belongs to the egg and sperm sources. At Surrogacy4All, we ensure that all parties—intended parents and surrogates—fully understand the medical and emotional aspects of surrogacy from start to finish.