Psychosocial Health Among Surrogate Mothers

Abstract

This study investigates the psychosocial health of Thai surrogates with a focus on advancing the devel-opment of surrogacy health promotion and policy at both national and international levels. Employing semi-structured telephonic interviews with fifteen Thai women who had served as surrogates within the previous seven years, the research identified four thematic dimensions-mental, environmental, social, and spiritual healthunveiling various aspects of surrogates' psychosocial well-being. Despite generally positive sentiments and the absence of perceived health risks, the study uncovered a noticeable impact on psychosocial health outcomes. The conclusion underscores the complexity of surrogates' psychosocial well-being, emphasizing their understanding of roles, spiritual fulfillment, and familial support. Addition-ally, it sheds light on unforeseen consequences of surrogacy bans, advocates for regulatory reform, and stresses the imperative for international cooperation to safeguard the well-being of all involved in surro-gacy.