Fertility Query Centre is a clinic located in Asansol that specializes in providing fertility treatment to couples who are struggling to conceive. One of the services offered by the clinic is altruistic surrogacy, which involves a woman carrying a pregnancy for another couple or individual without receiving any compensation beyond the expenses incurred during the pregnancy. Altruistic surrogacy is a controversial topic, and this essay will explore the pros and cons of this practice, as well as its legal and ethical implications.

What is altruistic surrogacy?

Altruistic surrogacy is a type of surrogacy where the surrogate mother does not receive any payment for carrying the pregnancy. The surrogate mother agrees to carry the child to term and relinquish parental rights to the intended parents after the child is born. Altruistic surrogacy is different from commercial surrogacy, where the surrogate mother is paid for her services. In India, commercial surrogacy was banned in 2018, but altruistic surrogacy is still legal.

Pros of altruistic surrogacy:

1.Helps couples who cannot conceive: Altruistic surrogacy is a way for couples who cannot conceive to have a child of their own. This can be a lifesaver for couples who have tried other fertility treatments without success.

2.Provides a fulfilling experience for the surrogate mother: For some women, carrying a pregnancy for someone else can be a fulfilling experience. They may feel a sense of satisfaction from helping someone else achieve their dream of having a child.

3.Builds relationships: Altruistic surrogacy can build relationships between the surrogate mother and the intended parents. The process can be a bonding experience for all involved and can create lasting relationships.

Cons of altruistic surrogacy:

1.Risk of exploitation: Altruistic surrogacy can lead to the exploitation of women who are economically disadvantaged. The surrogate mother may feel pressured to agree to the arrangement due to financial constraints, and may not be fully aware of the physical and emotional toll of carrying a pregnancy.

2.Legal and ethical complexities: Altruistic surrogacy can involve legal and ethical complexities. For example, the surrogate mother may change her mind and decide to keep the child, or the intended parents may change their mind and decide not to take the child.

3.Psychological impact: Altruistic surrogacy can have a psychological impact on the surrogate mother, especially if she becomes attached to the child she is carrying. This can lead to emotional distress and may even require psychological counselling.

Legal and ethical implications:

In India, altruistic surrogacy is legal, but there are strict guidelines that must be followed. The surrogate mother must be a close relative of the intended parents, and the arrangement must be made through a registered surrogacy clinic. The intended parents must also obtain a certificate of eligibility from the appropriate authority before the surrogacy can proceed.

There are also ethical considerations that must be taken into account. For example, the surrogate mother must fully understand the physical and emotional toll of carrying a pregnancy, and must give her informed consent. There must also be a clear agreement between the surrogate mother and the intended parents regarding the relinquishment of parental rights.

Conclusion:

Altruistic surrogacy is a complex and controversial topic that involves legal, ethical, and emotional considerations. While it can provide a way for couples who cannot conceive to have a child of their own, it can also lead to exploitation and psychological distress for the surrogate mother. It is important that altruistic surrogacy is regulated and monitored to ensure that it is carried out in an ethical and safe manner. Best Fertility Query Centre in Asansol is a reputable clinic that provides altruistic surrogacy services and adheres to the guidelines set by the Indian government.