Surrogacy in Uruguay

contributions to a Latin American discussion

Abstract

In recent decades, assisted reproductive technologies have generated important transformations, expanding the reproductive possibilities. Within the diversity of practices involved, surrogacy generates the greatest controversies. This practice opens a debate that for feminisms is based, broadly speaking, on the safeguarding of women’s reproductive autonomy and their capacities to take autonomous decisions; and the commodification of the female body through the so-called reproductive market. At a legal level, there are different scenarios in constant reconfiguration. While most countries prohibit this practice (which generates the movement of people towards countries with more permissive legislation); others accept surrogacy with few restrictions; others have no legislation but the practice takes place. Finally, some countries allow it with conditions that seek to prevent the profit motive and promote altruistic character; Uruguay is one of those. This article analyzes, through interviews with women who have been mothers through a surrogacy contract abroad and through the analysis of projects that aim to change current regulations, the meanings in conflict around this procedure in our country. This is a preview of what will be a broader investigation and thus aims to contribute, from our reality, to a broader debate on surrogacy in Latin America.

Submission: May 3, 2024 ⊶ Accepted: June 11, 2024