Rethinking Reproductive Labor through Surrogates’ Invisible Bodily Care Work

Abstract

New reproductive technologies such as egg donation and in-vitro fertilization have opened a global surrogacy market; surrogacy is now one of many options to start a family. However, surrogacy and other intimate acts are not typically categorized as work. The designation of surrogacy arrangements as either “commercial” or “altruistic” has hinged on the surrogate’s motivations, financial hardship, and social locale. These differences, in turn, influence the classification of surrogacy as either work or labor of love. Even when surrogacy is recognized as work – a rare event – altruistic aspects are highlighted while the laboring nature of the activities are obscured. This article argues that surrogates perform reproductive labor; more precisely, their invisible bodily care work, regardless of their locale, motivations, relationship with the intended parent(s), and irrespective of whether they receive payment. Conceptualizing surrogacy as bodily care work has both theoretical and practical implications. Theoretically, extending our understanding of what counts as labor matters. Practically, the recognition of surrogacy as work would extend already existing labor regulations to surrogates as well as allow for the formulation of regulations specific to surrogacy.