Surrogacy As An Alternative Path To Parenthood: A Closer Look At Its Impact On Adoption Waiting List

Surrogacy As An Alternative Path To Parenthood: A Closer Look At Its Impact On Adoption Waiting Lists And Child Availability

Monika Ghai (Ph.D. Scholar), Noida International University, School of Law and Legal Affairs

ABSTRACT

The evolution of family-building options has given rise to surrogacy as an increasingly popular path to parenthood for individuals and couples facing infertility challenges or seeking a biological connection with their child. However, this paradigm shift prompts a reevaluation of its potential influence on adoption waiting lists and the availability of children for adoption.

Adoption, a time-honored and compassionate avenue for providing loving homes to children in need, has faced its own set of challenges, including bureaucratic hurdles and varying waiting times. The growing prominence of surrogacy raises intriguing questions about how these two paths to parenthood intersect and impact one another in a rapidly changing world.

This article critically examines the multifaceted dynamics involved when surrogacy becomes a prominent alternative to traditional childbirth. Through a comprehensive analysis, we explore the potential consequences on adoption waiting lists and the availability of children for adoption, taking into account emotional, ethical, societal, and legislative dimensions.

We investigate the emotional and medical motivations behind choosing surrogacy and their potential impact on adoption demand. We also consider the shifting demographics of adoptive parents, as well as the resource allocation and policy adjustments needed to ensure that all children, regardless of their biological origins, find the loving homes they deserve.

As surrogacy gains traction as a mainstream choice for prospective parents, it is imperative to foster a constructive dialogue that informs policies and practices. This dialogue should ultimately prioritize the well-being of children in need, regardless of the path chosen by their parents to welcome them into their families.

Keywords: Complex interplay, Adoption, Parenthood, Policy adjustments, Adoption demographics, Family-building