Topic: Surrogate Mothers The ethical issues discussion will address an ethical issue associated with the practice of nursing. The issue selected for discussion should have clearly identifiable pros and cons which when analyzed will allow the student to form a defensible position related to the issue. Principles from identified codes of ethics should be examined in relationship to the issue and position. The student should address the following:
Surrogate motherhood, as an ethical issue in the practice of nursing, has generated considerable debate and controversy in recent years. This practice involves a woman carrying a pregnancy for another individual or couple, with the intention of relinquishing the child at birth. While some argue that surrogacy provides a means for individuals or couples struggling with infertility to experience the joys of parenthood, others express concerns about the potential exploitation of women and commodification of children. In this discussion, we will examine the pros and cons of surrogate motherhood and analyze the ethical principles outlined in various codes of ethics in order to form a defensible position on the issue.
One of the perceived benefits of surrogacy is that it allows individuals or couples who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy to have a child genetically related to them. For those struggling with infertility, surrogacy can offer a chance at building a family and fulfilling their desire to become parents. It provides an alternative to adoption, which may not be feasible or preferred by some individuals or couples. Furthermore, surrogacy allows individuals or couples to have a more active role in the pregnancy and childbirth process, as they are able to participate in various forms of prenatal care and be present at the birth of their child.
Additionally, proponents of surrogacy argue that it provides economic benefits for the surrogate mother, who may receive financial compensation for her participation. This can be particularly advantageous for women who may be facing financial challenges or seeking to support their families. In some cases, surrogacy arrangements may also include provisions for the surrogate mother’s healthcare and well-being during and after the pregnancy, ensuring that her needs and rights are protected.
On the other hand, there are significant ethical concerns surrounding surrogate motherhood. Critics argue that it may exploit women, particularly those from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds, by commodifying their reproductive abilities. They argue that the financial motivations involved in surrogacy arrangements may exploit vulnerable women who are forced to make difficult decisions due to financial constraints. Surrogacy contracts often involve significant legal and financial complexities, raising the question of whether surrogate mothers fully understand the potential risks and implications of their involvement.
Moreover, the potential psychological and emotional consequences for both the surrogate mother and the child are also significant ethical considerations. A surrogate mother may experience emotional distress or feelings of detachment when she has to give up the child she carried and nurtured for nine months. Similarly, the child may face identity and attachment issues when they discover their biological origins and the circumstances surrounding their conception and birth.
In analyzing the ethical principles that can guide our understanding of this issue, we can refer to various codes of ethics in the nursing profession. For instance, the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics highlights the principle of autonomy, which emphasizes the importance of respecting individual choices and decisions. This raises questions about whether women have the autonomy to freely choose to be surrogate mothers or if they are influenced by external factors such as financial incentives. Furthermore, the principle of beneficence, which emphasizes the promotion of the well-being of others, necessitates a careful examination of the potential physical and emotional risks involved for surrogate mothers and the long-term well-being of the children born through surrogacy.
The International Council of Nurses (ICN) Code of Ethics also identifies the principle of justice, which calls for fair treatment and the avoidance of discrimination. This raises concerns about the socioeconomic disparities and power imbalances that may exist between surrogate mothers and the individuals or couples seeking their services. It raises questions about whether surrogacy exacerbates social inequalities by disproportionately benefiting privileged individuals or couples.
In conclusion, surrogate motherhood presents a complex ethical issue in nursing practice. While it offers benefits such as the opportunity for individuals or couples struggling with infertility to have a genetically related child, it also raises concerns about the potential exploitation of women and the emotional well-being of both the surrogate mother and the child. By analyzing these pros and cons and considering the ethical principles outlined in nursing codes of ethics, nurses and healthcare professionals can form a defensible position on this issue.