Psychological stress experienced by biological mothers and surrogate mothers in the surrogacy process

Formal Summary of the Article for Use in a Thesis Introduction or Research Report Infertility is considered one of the major social and psychological challenges in Iranian society, affecting a significant percentage of couples. According to official statistics, more than 20% of Iranian couples experience infertility. Among the available treatments, surrogacy has emerged as an effective solution. However, despite its clinical efficacy, this method involves numerous psychological consequences for all parties involved. The article titled “Psychological Tensions Experienced by Biological Parents and Surrogate Mothers in the Surrogacy Process” adopts a qualitative approach using thematic analysis to investigate and compare psychological tensions in two main groups: biological parents and surrogate mothers. The findings indicate that surrogate mothers frequently experience anxiety, depression, emotional pressure, and psychological conflicts. Separation from the baby after birth is one of the most emotionally challenging moments for them. On the other hand, biological parents also face significant concerns such as uncertainty about the fetus’s health, lack of direct control over the pregnancy process, and sociocultural stigma associated with the use of a surrogate. The authors, referencing attachment theory and Lazarus and Folkman’s stress theory, emphasize that psychological stress is influenced by individuals’ cognitive evaluations of the situation and the coping resources available to them. The results highlight the need for comprehensive psychological support and counseling for both groups throughout the entire surrogacy process. Furthermore, the absence of specific legal regulations in Iran underscores the urgent need for legal frameworks and structured policymaking in this field. By focusing on the psychological dimensions of surrogacy and conducting a comparative analysis between biological and surrogate mothers, this article aims to identify hidden psychological stressors and propose clinical and therapeutic strategies to mitigate these challenges.