Ep 22. Lisa Ling Investigates: Wombs for Rent
- October 9, 2007
The Oprah Winfrey Show season 22 episode 22 is titled "Lisa Ling Investigates: Wombs for Rent". In this episode, Oprah is joined by journalist Lisa Ling as they delve into the controversial topic of surrogacy. Lisa, who has covered the issue for CNN, takes viewers on a journey through the world of surrogacy, exploring the reasons why women choose to become surrogates, the process of surrogacy, the impact on families, and the legal and ethical issues surrounding it.
The episode starts with a brief introduction to surrogacy and its history, followed by a segment where Lisa interviews several women who have served as surrogates. They talk about their motivations for doing so, the selection process, and the emotional and physical toll that surrogacy takes on them. Lisa also speaks to a couple who have hired a surrogate to carry their child and the challenges they faced in the process.
Next, Oprah and Lisa are joined by a panel of experts, including a reproductive lawyer, a psychologist, and a surrogacy agency representative. They discuss the legal and ethical issues surrounding surrogacy, such as the exploitation of women in developing countries, the lack of regulation in some states, and the potential for psychological harm to both the surrogate and the child.
The episode also features a segment on the medical aspects of surrogacy, including interviews with doctors who specialize in fertility treatments and the challenges they face in the process. They talk about the risks of using fertility drugs, the success rates of surrogacy, and the importance of proper medical screening.
Finally, the episode concludes with a look at the future of surrogacy, including new technologies such as embryo screening and the potential for same-sex couples and single individuals to become parents through surrogacy.
Overall, "Lisa Ling Investigates: Wombs for Rent" is a thought-provoking and informative episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show that explores the complex and controversial issue of surrogacy. With Lisa Ling's expert guidance and insight, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the motivations, challenges, and ethical considerations that come with this increasingly popular form of parenting.
