Altruistic vs. commercial surrogacy

The fact that surrogacy arrangements can be altruistic or commercial has lead to an extensive debate around the world, as it involves various ethical issues.

The following is the definition of each type:

Altruistic or uncompensated surrogacy

It refers to those surrogacy arrangements where the surrogacy does not receive a financial compensation. However, even when the surrogate acts altruistically, the intended parents have to pay for the expenses derived from the pregnancy.

Commercial surrogacy

Also known as gainful surrogacy, it is just the opposite of altruistic or uncompensated surrogacy. In this case, the surrogacy contract includes a pre-fixed monetary compensation to the surrogate, in addition to covering the expenses incurred during pregnancy, the medical costs, etc.