The question of who is considered the "real mother" in the context of surrogacy is complex and often depends on legal, cultural, and personal perspectives. In surrogacy arrangements, there are typically two main roles: Genetic Mother (Biological Mother): The woman whose egg is used to create the embryo is the genetic mother. In gestational surrogacy, where the surrogate is not genetically related to the child, the genetic mother is the intended mother or an egg donor. Surrogate (Gestational Carrier): The surrogate, also known as the gestational carrier, is the woman who carries and gives birth to the child. In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate is not genetically related to the child. Legal and Cultural Perspectives: In many legal systems, the woman or couple who commission the surrogacy arrangement are recognized as the legal parents of the child. This is often determined by the legal agreements and contracts in place, as well as the laws of the jurisdiction where the surrogacy occurs. Personal Perspectives: The question of who is considered the "real mother" can be subjective and may vary among individuals involved in the surrogacy process. For intended parents, the woman who provides the genetic material may be considered the biological or real mother. The surrogate, on the other hand, may see herself as the gestational carrier and not the legal or biological mother. Ethical Considerations: Ethical discussions around surrogacy often emphasize the importance of recognizing the roles and contributions of all parties involved. It's essential to respect the autonomy and agency of both the genetic parents and the surrogate, understanding that each may have a unique connection to the child. In conclusion, the concept of the "real mother" in surrogacy is multifaceted and can be viewed from different angles. From a legal standpoint, the intended parents are typically recognized as the legal parents of the child. However, personal and cultural perspectives may influence how individuals involved in the surrogacy arrangement perceive and define the roles of each party.