Commercial surrogacy in the spotlight – a leading agency answers top ethics FAQs

Looking at surrogacy in 2024, it’s clear it has come a long way as a valid and accepted pathway to family building. 

Currently, over 1000 babies are born using surrogates in the United States every year. This said, aspects of the process still remain somewhat misunderstood, especially when it comes to commercial surrogacy and some of the ethical concerns attached to financial compensation.

So we sat down with Dr. Lisa Vasquez and the Pinnacle Surrogacy team, one of the leading US agencies working to address this particular area of concern, for their take.

Making the surrogacy process safer, clearer and more compassionate, each of their coordinators has previously been a surrogate themselves, meaning surrogates and intended parents alike are in the most experienced and empathetic hands, at every stage of the journey.

Before we get into it – read up on their week in the life of a surrogate to get a feel for their typical gestational carrier process, and connect with their expert team directly with any questions.

First off, what is commercial surrogacy?

When we talk about commercial surrogacy, we’re referring to a family-building pathway where a surrogate is compensated for her services. 

The amount that surrogates are paid depends on individual journeys and circumstances, but this arrangement typically gives the surrogate financial compensation beyond just covering her medical costs.

This sets it apart from altruistic surrogacy, where the surrogate doesn’t receive monetary compensation for her services and is only reimbursed for her medical expenses.

How does commercial surrogacy work in the US?

Commercial surrogacy in the US varies widely depending on state laws, which play a big role in shaping the process for intended parents and surrogates.

Commercial gestational surrogacy, where the embryo is created using the intended mother’s or a donor’s egg and the intended father’s or a donor’s sperm, is widely considered more ethical and legally straightforward because it clearly separates the surrogate’s role from that of a biological parent. 

In this type of commercial surrogacy, the surrogate is also fully supported throughout the journey, often through legal agreements that outline her responsibilities, compensation, and the rights of both parties.

At Pinnacle Surrogacy, we work with an expert legal team to understand each and every local requirement.

You can head to our our Laws and Guidelines hub for the relevant specifics, and read our one-stop guide to surrogacy in the US for more detail on how the process typically goes.

What are the top questions you get from intended parents about commercial surrogacy ethics?

As intended parents, we might have many questions about the ethics of commercial surrogacy. 

“I believe the main ethical concerns for intended parents often focus on the surrogate’s motivation and on finding a balance around her autonomy throughout the journey”, says Dr. Vasquez. 

“Motivation is key here; it really sets the tone for the entire relationship between the surrogate and the intended parents. When there’s trust in why someone chooses to be a surrogate, many other questions naturally fall into place. If there’s confidence that the surrogate genuinely wants to help another person or couple, there’s usually less worry about her daily choices regarding nutrition, activity, and relationships.”

“This foundation of trust also supports autonomy, as a respectful connection allows both parties to meet each other’s needs and uphold personal boundaries.”, she says.

How is technology shaping the future of commercial surrogacy? 

Technology is shaping commercial surrogacy, making it more accessible and efficient while raising new ethical considerations. 

Dr. Vasquez explains that the internet plays a significant role, allowing agencies to connect with surrogates from various locations and streamline application processes. 

“On one hand internet search engines and online ads can help to bring potential intended parents and surrogates together. However, the ease with which surrogates can apply to the process doesn’t always accurately reflect the weight and responsibility of the surrogacy process. It’s our job to make sure everyone is informed.”, she says.

Advances in reproductive technology are another influence we’re seeing, with genetic screening and embryo freezing in the picture, and as medical technology advances, Pinnacle Surrogacy aims to keep surrogates and intended parents well-informed about new procedures and their potential effects.

How does Pinnacle lead the way in setting the bar for the most ethical commercial surrogacy practice possible? 

“The Pinnacle Surrogacy team is fully committed to supporting both intended parents and gestational carriers equally, treating each with the same level of respect, counseling, and compassion”, says Dr. Vasquez. 

“Surrogates are guided from their first contact with the agency, often by coordinators who have been surrogates themselves. This creates a foundation of shared knowledge and experience that supports surrogates from the very beginning.” 

“As they move further into the process, surrogates are thoroughly informed about the tests they’ll need, as well as medications, and possible side effects, ensuring they feel informed and supported every step of the way. Our goal is to make the experience positive and empowering for each surrogate”.

Thinking about building your family via surrogacy? Head to Pinnacle Surrogacy to get started. Make use of their really handy online chat tool for any more quick-fire questions, and browse to find a clinic near you. 

Looking to become a surrogate? Skip to Pinnacle Surrogacy’s support hub. You’ll find the application right up top, plus lots of information on the screening process, and more.