Surrogacy Mythbusters: Part 5 – Genetics, Biology & What the Baby Actually Inherits

It’s amazing how much misinformation still floats around about the biology of surrogacy, even from well-meaning friends and family. Let’s set the record straight on who the baby is genetically related to and what role the surrogate’s biology does (and doesn’t) play.

MYTH 13: “The baby will look like the surrogate.”

Let’s be clear: in gestational surrogacy, the surrogate shares zero DNA with the baby.

The embryo is created using the intended parents’ egg and sperm, or with the help of a donor. The surrogate’s body nurtures the pregnancy, but the genetic material comes entirely from someone else. So, babies born through surrogacy do not inherit their surrogate’s features.

(And for anyone wondering, the baby won’t inherit her personality or eye color either.)

MYTH 14: “Surrogacy and traditional pregnancy are the same.”

Surrogacy is a different kind of journey. Emotionally, logistically, and legally. From fertility medications to embryo transfers and legal agreements, it involves layers of coordination and care that typical pregnancy doesn’t.

That said, when it comes to physical pregnancy symptoms, doctor visits, and delivery... yes, it’s still pregnancy. The surrogate experiences morning sickness, kicks, cravings, and birth just like any other pregnant person. The difference is, she’s doing it on behalf of someone else, and with their future in her heart every step of the way.

MYTH 15: “The surrogate has parental rights.”

Another common fear, especially for people unfamiliar with surrogacy law.

But the truth is: in properly structured surrogacy arrangements, the surrogate does not have parental rights.

Legal contracts are signed before any pregnancy begins, and in surrogacy-friendly states, pre-birth or post-birth orders clearly establish who the legal parents are.

The surrogate isn’t on the birth certificate, doesn’t have custody, and doesn’t make parenting decisions. The baby legally belongs to the intended parents.

So What’s the Reality?

The baby carries the DNA of the egg and sperm source, not the surrogate. The surrogate carries the pregnancy—not the parental role. And what does everyone carry?

Love. Trust. Together, we are committed to bringing new life into the world.

💛 Thank you for following our Surrogacy Mythbusters series. If you missed earlier parts, head back to explore the emotional truths, legal realities, and the incredible people behind this journey.

And stay tuned! We’re just getting started.