The Implications of Gestational Surrogacy on Motherhood

Abstract

Surrogacy in this century has taken a stronger shape and has become internationally recognized. This is because it serves as succor to couples who need children. Although, initially according to history, it was not financially inclined. It even became publicly pronounced and equally stood to be legalized in countries such as the United States of America and Australia. It has been argued that surrogacy did not begin in our contemporary age nor was it unheard of in the past. The practice of surrogacy is alluded to in the bible: “And Sarah said to Abram, Behold now, the Lord has prevented me from bearing children, Go into my maid: it may be that I shall obtain children by her. And Abram hearkened to the voice of Sarah” (Genesis 16:2).  Although surrogacy became publicly pronounced in the contemporary age, based on the assisted reproductive technology involved, its origin pre-dates new assisted forms of reproduction. Surrogate motherhood raises many ethical issues in our society.