Gestational Surrogacy: Addressing Criticisms and Highlighting Benefits

Gestational surrogacy, the most common type of surrogacy, involves using reproductive technology to produce embryos through in vitro fertilization, where the gestational carrier is not genetically related to the child. Despite widespread criticisms of surrogacy as risky or exploitative, research suggests that gestational carriers are not generally exploited and voluntarily enter into surrogacy contracts. Surrogates report positive experiences, with a sense of higher self-worth and achievement. Critics claim that gestational surrogacy poses psychological and medical costs to the women and children involved. However, evidence shows that surrogate pregnancies have lower rates of early termination compared to conventional pregnancies, and surrogates have expressed no regrets about their involvement in surrogacy. The demographic of intended parents seeking gestational surrogacy often includes couples facing significant fertility challenges, and the process entails substantial financial and emotional costs.