Why Spain takes surrogacy as an attack on Women’s Autonomy?

by Surrogacy Consultancy Best Surrogacy Agency in USA

Surrogacy in Spain is always a controversial discussion for the advocates of assisted reproductive technology. While all kinds of surrogacy practices are prohibited in this country, there are individuals and couples looking to realize their parenthood dreams.

In the following sections of this blog, we will take a deep dive into the surrogacy landscape of this famous European country. Besides, we will talk about why surrogacy is been deemed as a method to exploit women in this part of the world.

1. Country’s perspective on surrogacy

If you are an intended parent, you must know that surrogacy is currently prohibited for both local and international citizens in spain. More or less, this is due to the existing legal system in the country that prohibits everyone from practicing or seeking surrogacy.

As per the surrogacy laws in Spain, surrogacy is illegal in this part of the planet. Moreover, you cannot opt for the services of a surrogacy agency in spain to pursue any surrogacy related service.

2. Financial aspect

Given the higher cost of surrogacy in the country, most of the surrogates choose this practice to earn big money. According to the government, this forces many women to pursue surrogacy in spain out of pressure. So, most of the people and pundits in the country believe that it’s not a matter of choice but mostly out of pressure for all these surrogate mother in Spain.

3. Health Risks

Being pregnant and giving birth are not easy tasks and they come with risks to the woman’s health. Moreover, in surrogacy, a woman takes these risks not for her own child but for someone else’s. Besides, most of the critics in this country say this is another reason why it’s exploitative. Also, some surrogates might not fully understand or be informed about all the medical risks involved.

4. Emotional challenges

Becoming pregnant, carrying a baby, and then giving it up can be emotionally challenging. That said, some women might become attached to the baby and finds it hard to let go after birth. Besides, there's a concern in Spain that not all surrogates are prepared for this emotional journey, leading to potential trauma and heartbreak.

So, even though surrogates know from the start that the child will not be theirs, the emotional impact can be very hard. Also, critics say that this emotional toll is another form of exploitation, especially if the surrogate mother is not given proper emotional support and counseling.

5. Legal Complications

Imagine carrying a baby for someone and then, due to legal issues, not being able to give the baby to them. Or worse, imagine a situation where the intending parents abandon the surrogate mother in Italy and the child. Such legal complications can happen, and Spain wants to avoid putting women in these troubling situations.

Also, in countries where surrogacy is not well-regulated, women are even more at risk of exploitation. Since surrogacy is illegal in Spain as per the surrogacy laws in Spain, Spanish citizens often look for surrogates in other countries. Moreover, these countries might not have strict rules to protect the surrogate mothers, making it easier for them to be exploited.

6. Unequal Power Dynamics

In many surrogacy arrangements, especially those happening internationally, there's a power imbalance. Moreover, the intended parents often come from wealthier backgrounds or countries, while the surrogates might come from less privileged situations. That said, this difference can lead to an imbalance, where the surrogate might not have much say or control over the process.

7. Concerns about "Womb Factories"

In some countries, there have been reports of "womb factories," where women are kept in facilities and repeatedly made to be surrogates. Besides, these are extreme and horrifying situations of exploitation. On the other hand, spain, in banning surrogacy, aims to ensure no Spanish citizen indirectly supports such practices.

8. Cultural and Ethical Concerns

Spain, like many countries, holds strong cultural and ethical beliefs, many of which are influenced by religion. Moreover, the idea of using a woman's body in a transactional manner, even if consensual, goes against many people's moral values in Spain.

9. Lack of Comprehensive Regulations

While some countries have set strict regulations to protect both the surrogates and the intending parents, many places lack these. Besides, without comprehensive rules, there's a higher chance of women being mistreated or exploited.

Similarly, due to stronger surrogacy laws in Spain, there are more chances of women being exploited in the name of ethical surrogacy. This is where the government thought of putting restrictions to it.

10. Alternative Methods for Family Creation

Spain promotes other ways for people to have families, like adoption. Moreover, the belief is that instead of potentially putting a woman at risk through surrogacy, intending parents can provide a home to a child already in need.

Final words

While surrogacy in Spain has been a blessing for many families worldwide, the concerns about women's exploitation are real. Spain, in its stand against surrogacy, seeks to protect women from potential harm, both physically and emotionally. However, as the global conversation around surrogacy evolves, countries like Spain may need to revisit their laws and stances to ensure that everyone's rights and wellbeing are considered and protected.