Surrogacy: A Journey Through Time and Across Cultures

By Yemi Adesanya-Famuyiwa, MD

Surrogacy, a deeply intricate and emotionally charged journey, has been a beacon of hope for countless individuals and couples around the world. This process involves one woman carrying and giving birth to a child on behalf of another individual or couple who, for various reasons, cannot conceive or carry a pregnancy themselves. In this blog, we’ll embark on an exploration of surrogacy’s rich history, tracing its roots back to ancient civilizations like Rome and Greece, while also considering its potential presence in other regions, such as China and Africa. We’ll then delve into the contemporary forms of surrogacy, the legal and ethical considerations that shape it, and the profound emotional rollercoaster experienced by all parties involved.

The Historical Roots of Surrogacy

Surrogacy, as a concept, is not confined to the modern era; it has deep historical roots. One of the earliest instances of surrogacy-like practices can be traced back to ancient Rome. In Roman society, where infertility was a prevailing concern, a rudimentary form of surrogacy emerged as a solution. Infertile women could seek the help of fertile women, known as “maters,” to carry a child on their behalf. Legally, the child born through this arrangement belonged to the husband and wife who commissioned the surrogacy.

Similarly, in ancient Greece, infertile couples turned to close relatives, often sisters, to serve as surrogate mothers. The child born in this context was recognized as the offspring of the intended parents. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that these ancient practices, while resembling modern surrogacy, were distinct due to the absence of contemporary assisted reproductive technologies and genetic connections.

Surrogacy in Ancient China and Africa

The historical documentation related to surrogacy in ancient China and Africa is less clear and detailed. In ancien China, although records reflect various cultural and social practices linked to family and reproduction, explicit evidence of surrogacy as we understand it today is limited. It’s plausible that surrogacy-like practices existed but were not extensively documented in historical texts.

Similarly, in ancient Africa, societies featured diverse and complex customs tied to family and reproduction, including polygamy and fostering children within extended families or communities. While surrogacy may have existed in some form, it might not have been explicitly recorded in historical documents.

Contemporary Surrogacy

In the modern era, surrogacy has taken on two primary forms:

1. Traditional Surrogacy: This method involves the surrogate mother using her own egg to conceive the child through artificial insemination. However, traditional surrogacy has become less common due to its legal complexities and the preference for a genetic link between the child and the intended parents.

2. Gestational Surrogacy: Gestational surrogacy, the prevalent form today, entails the surrogate mother carrying a child conceived using the egg and sperm of the intended parents or donors. This method ensures a clear genetic connection between the child and the intended parents.

Legal and Ethical Considerations in Modern Surrogacy

Surrogacy laws vary significantly across different countries and regions. These legal complexities require all parties involved to seek legal counsel to fully comprehend their rights and responsibilities. Ethical considerations in surrogacy revolve around issues of informed consent, autonomy, and the welfare of everyone involved, particularly the child. Ensuring that the surrogate mother fully understands and willingly consents to the process, along with receiving fair compensation, is paramount. Protecting the rights and interests of the child remains a central concern.

The Emotional Rollercoaster

Surrogacy transcends mere medical and legal processes; it is a profoundly emotional journey. For intended parents, it can be a tumultuous ride filled with hope, anxiety, and eventual joy. Surrogate mothers often embark on this journey out of a deep-seated desire to assist others and experience a wide range of emotions, from forming bonds with the baby to finding fulfillment in making a significant difference in someone’s life. Open and honest communication among all parties, supplemented by mental health support when needed, is vital to navigate the emotional peaks and valleys inherent in surrogacy.

Conclusion

Surrogacy, rooted in ancient civilizations like Rome and Greece, has blossomed into a complex and multifaceted journey in the modern world. While historical practices share some similarities with contemporary surrogacy, they differ significantly in terms of technology, legal frameworks, and ethical considerations. The historical context reminds us that the human desire for parenthood and the capacity for compassion transcend time, shaping the way we navigate this remarkable journey today. As society continues to evolve, fostering open discussions and supportive environments for those on this unique path is essential.

Prevously publised on SoMeDocs Magazine