The Emotional and Ethical Side of Altruistic Surrogacy in India

In recent years, altruistic surrogacy in India has gained attention not only as a legal alternative to commercial surrogacy but also as a deeply emotional and ethical arrangement. With changing laws and rising awareness, more couples are now considering this path to parenthood. But beyond legality and medical processes, altruistic surrogacy carries emotional depth and moral significance that is often overlooked.

What Is Altruistic Surrogacy?

Altruistic surrogacy refers to a surrogacy arrangement where the surrogate mother does not receive any monetary compensation beyond medical expenses and insurance. This model is now the only legally permitted form of surrogacy in India under the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021. The law aims to prevent the commercialization of childbirth while encouraging surrogacy as an act of compassion and love, usually carried out by a close relative or friend.

The Emotional Side of Altruistic Surrogacy

Altruistic surrogacy is a journey filled with emotions—for both the intended parents and the surrogate. For couples who have struggled with infertility, this arrangement represents hope, healing, and fulfillment. Unlike transactional arrangements, altruistic surrogacy often involves stronger bonds and deeper trust between the surrogate and the intended parents.

For the surrogate mother, it is not just a physical contribution but an emotional one. She willingly endures the physical demands of pregnancy to give someone else the gift of life—something that requires immense compassion and resilience.

Dr. Shivani Sachdev Gour, a leading fertility expert in Delhi, often highlights the importance of emotional counseling and mutual respect in such arrangements. According to her, “Surrogacy isn’t just about medical care; it’s about shared emotions, trust, and a deep understanding of the responsibilities involved.”

Ethical Considerations in Altruistic Surrogacy

One of the main reasons India moved towards altruistic surrogacy is to ensure ethical practices. Commercial surrogacy had led to several concerns, including the exploitation of underprivileged women and lack of post-delivery care. Altruistic surrogacy, in contrast, eliminates the financial motive, making the act more humane and morally grounded.

Ethically, this model ensures:

• Informed consent from the surrogate

• Legal rights and responsibilities are clearly defined

• Child welfare remains the top priority

• No financial exploitation

Medical professionals like Dr. Shivani Sachdev Gour stress that ethical counseling should be an integral part of the surrogacy process. It ensures that all parties are aware of their roles, rights, and emotional responsibilities.

Surrogacy Cost in India

Though altruistic surrogacy removes commercial payments, there are still significant expenses involved. These include:

• Fertility treatments like IVF

• Medical tests and prenatal care

• Legal documentation

• Hospital delivery charges

• Insurance and postnatal care

The surrogacy cost in India can vary depending on the fertility clinic and location but is generally lower compared to many Western countries. Clinics like SCI IVF Hospital, led by Dr. Shivani Sachdev Gour, offer transparent and affordable treatment options, ensuring couples are emotionally and financially supported throughout their journey.

Conclusion

Altruistic surrogacy in India is not just a legal alternative but a compassionate and ethical solution for couples struggling with infertility. It redefines parenthood as a collective, emotionally driven journey—one where a surrogate’s selflessness meets the hopes of intended parents. With the guidance of ethical fertility experts like Dr. Shivani Sachdev Gour and transparent clinics offering affordable surrogacy cost in India, altruistic surrogacy is becoming a powerful path toward fulfilling dreams of parenthood.