Insight into Different Aspects of Surrogacy Practices

Surrogacy is an advanced method of assisted reproductive technology in which a woman, known as a surrogate mother, carries a pregnancy on behalf of another couple, referred to as the intended parents. While surrogacy is practiced in various countries, it is associated with social, religious, legal, and ethical considerations.

There are two main types of surrogacy—traditional and gestational—each with its own unique characteristics. Below, we delve into the different aspects of surrogacy to provide a clearer understanding of this multifaceted practice.

Commercial vs. Non-Commercial Surrogacy

One significant concern surrounding surrogacy is its commercialization in certain countries, where intermediaries heavily influence the selection of surrogates. For instance, India was once a prominent destination for commercial surrogacy, attracting international patients. However, recent surrogacy laws have limited surrogacy to Indian couples under specific circumstances.

In altruistic or non-commercial surrogacy, intended parents typically cover only medical expenses and costs related to the pregnancy. Nevertheless, it is common for them to provide a financial gift to the surrogate as a gesture of appreciation for her contribution.



Indication for Surrogacy

The main reasons for using surrogacy include:

Absence of a uterus or uterine abnormalities (e.g., uterine cancer, endometrial cancer, fibroids, T-shaped uterus).

Recurrent miscarriages.

Chronic health issues (such as heart, kidney, or respiratory diseases) where pregnancy poses risks to the woman’s life.

Reasons to Need Surrogacy for Intended Parents

Surrogacy is recommended for:

• Women without a uterus or with uterine abnormalities (fibroids, uterine cancer, T-shaped uterus);
• Women with recurrent miscarriages;
• Patients with serious medical conditions (heart, kidney, or lung disease) where pregnancy would endanger their life.

Choosing the Ideal Surrogate Mother

When it comes to choosing a surrogate mother, couples have two primary options:

• Selecting someone they know: This could be a family member, such as a sister, or a close friend who is willing to help;
• Using reputable fertility clinics or surrogacy agencies that specialize in matching intended parents with qualified surrogates.

Surrogate mother requirements may include:

• Being between 20 and 40 years old;
• Having A successful previous pregnancy;
• Being in good physical and mental health.



Ethical Issues with Surrogacy

Critics argue that surrogacy sometimes exploits vulnerable women, especially when there is a major financial gap between the surrogate and the intended parents.



Religious Perspectives on Surrogacy

Different religions have different views on surrogacy and assisted reproductive technologies (ART).

• Catholicism: The Catholic Church generally opposes surrogacy and egg donation. They believe that these practices go against the sacred nature of having children;
• Islam: Opinions on surrogacy in Islam can vary between Sunni and Shia scholars. Some scholars believe that surrogacy is acceptable as long as it is done in a moral way and does not involve inappropriate relationships between the surrogate and the intended father.

Economic Aspects of Surrogacy

Surrogacy is now a growing part of the medical tourism industry. Countries like Mexico, Georgia, Ukraine, and some U.S. states attract many international patients seeking surrogacy services.

Transnational Surrogacy, Citizenship, And International Scenario

One of the primary challenges in international surrogacy revolves around the nationality of the surrogate baby. Many countries adhere to the principle of jus sanguinis, which grants (right to blood), meaning that the child inherits the nationality of their biological parents rather than that of the surrogate. This creates complex legal issues with surrogacy. Therefore, intended parents must carefully review surrogacy laws in the destination country.

Surrogacy in Iran

Iran is emerging as a popular destination for international patients in search of affordable yet advanced infertility treatments. Surrogacy is legal in Iran, governed by specific regulations and Islamic laws. Fertility clinics across the country provide high-quality IVF and surrogacy services at significantly lower prices compared to Western nations. With a cadre of experienced doctors, state-of-the-art medical facilities, and adherence to ethical guidelines, Iran presents an attractive option for couples worldwide seeking safe and cost-effective surrogacy abroad.

Conclusion

Surrogacy has two types— traditional and gestational (modern). Traditional surrogacy is becoming increasingly rare due to the genetic connection between the child and the surrogate. In contrast, gestational surrogacy, which is more widely practiced, still grapples with various ethical, religious, legal, economic, and citizenship challenges. It is crucial for intended parents and surrogates to fully understand these complexities before embarking on their journey.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many types of surrogacy are there?

There are two types of surrogacy: traditional and gestational. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate's egg is fertilized with the intended father's sperm through intrauterine insemination, resulting in a genetic connection between the child and the surrogate. Gestational surrogacy involves using both gametes from the intended parents, with the embryo created via in vitro fertilization (IVF) and then implanted in the surrogate's uterus.

Which type of surrogacy is more common?

Modern (gestational) surrogacy is generally regarded as a better option than traditional surrogacy due to the absence of genetic ties between the surrogate and the child.

Are surrogacy laws the same across countries?

No, surrogacy laws vary significantly around the world. In some countries, it is prohibited, while in others, it is fully legal and commercialized.

What are surrogacy challenges?

 Surrogacy faces numerous challenges globally, including ethical, religious, social, economic, and legal issues.