Navigating the Feminist Discourse: Exploring Surrogacy's Impact on Women's Lives


Zahra Fahimi, University of Windsor

Surrogacy, the practice in which women designate others to carry and give birth on their behalf, has witnessed a surge in popularity since its emergence (Claire Fenton-Glynn, 2019). The phenomenon has gained traction in various countries, with notable prevalence in nations such as the UK, India, and Ukraine, as indicated by my research findings. As surrogacy becomes increasingly prevalent, the focal point shifts towards understanding its far-reaching impacts on diverse aspects of womens lives, encompassing considerations of gender, sexuality, class, and ability (Rudrappa, 2015). This complex landscape is further complicated by the varied stances within feminist circles regarding reproductive practices, revealing a schism in perspectives. Some feminists endorse fertility control methods, while others vehemently disagree, especially in the realm of infertility treatments (Berend, 2020). Against this backdrop, this research aims to delve into the nuanced feminist debates surrounding surrogacy, examining the divergent viewpoints and dissecting the implications for women across different social dimensions. The ensuing exploration will navigate through the existing literature on feminist perspectives surrounding surrogacy, laying the groundwork for a comprehensive investigation. The research question poised to guide this inquiry will emerge organically from this review, seeking to contribute nuanced insights and foster a deeper understanding of the multifaceted implications of surrogacy on womens lives within the intricate tapestry of gender dynamics, sexual identity, class structures, and considerations of ability.

This paper will be presented at the following session: