SURROGACY

This is not a case of baby selling. Perhaps that term could apply in traditional surrogacy contracts where the surrogate mother is one of the genetic parents. But here, a fertilized egg was implanted in Johnson’s body--conception had already occurred. The fetus already belonged to the Calverts when they accepted the services of Anna Johnson to care for their child. With no genetic link to the child, there was nothing that belonged to Anna Johnson that she could “sell.”

Surrogacy must be permitted as another option for reproductive free choice to women, and contracts of valid consent must be upheld by much-needed clarifying legislation. A baby was not sold; a womb was rented for extended child care.

DOUGLAS DUNN

Sherman Oaks