Between Strangers: Surrogate Mothers, Expectant Fathers and Brave New Babies

In a comprehensive, sensitive, feminist-slanted probe of the intensely controversial subject of paid or unpaid contractual surrogate motherhood, Andrews ( Medical Genetics , etc.) explores the motivations, experiences and feelings of several of these mothers, biological fathers and wives, and the fates of babies born of what is considered either as a selfless act or a cruel abandonment. The author discusses the many complex legal and ethical aspects of the procedure as viewed by physicians, legislators, clergy and sharply divided feminists, and the role of surrogate arrangers, clinics and special interest lawyers. She also cites examples of the delicate but often close relationship that develops between the surrogates and the couples involved, and cases, such as the sensational ``Baby M'' trial, in which the mother refuses to give up the child. Surrogacy, Andrews concludes, is among the social issues for which guidelines should be formulated: ``Surrogate motherhood has just begun to prompt the personal and societal soul-searching that is needed to develop policy in this area.'' (Feb.)