Renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has spoken candidly about her journey to motherhood through surrogacy, addressing the stigma and contradictions surrounding the topic.
In a recent interview with Chude Jideonwo, Adichie acknowledged the criticism she received from those who believe surrogacy is “dehumanizing” or akin to “renting a woman’s body.” She challenged this view, saying, “I think it can be, and I think it also matters how it’s done. I think it can be done ethically.”
She also pointed out the inconsistency in public discourse: “The same people say that a woman can do what she wants with her body, so there’s a contradiction there.”
Reflecting on the public reaction to her revelation, Adichie admitted to mixed feelings about disclosing her children’s birth story. “I hated the fact that anything about them would become politicized,” she said. “I wished I hadn’t said that they were given birth through surrogacy, but there’s no way I’m going to lie and claim that I had babies that I didn’t birth myself. I think it’s wrong.”
The award-winning novelist expressed hope that her openness will help other women feel less ashamed about choosing non-traditional paths to motherhood. “There are many women who give birth to babies through surrogacy or adoption, and they will go and hide for nine months. Our society is very judgemental and I don’t think that’s good for anybody,” she added.
Despite the challenges, Adichie remains unwavering in her joy: “My daughter and my babies are the greatest gift I’ve been given, so zero regrets.”
Her comments have sparked renewed conversation on reproductive choice, stigma, and the ethics of surrogacy.
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