In surrogacy and reproductive technologies, which principle ensures patient understanding and agreement?

• A. Informed consent
• B. Confidentiality
• C. Nonmaleficence
• D. Justice

Answer: (A)

Informed consent is the process that ensures patients understand the procedure or option, including risks, benefits, and alternatives, and then voluntarily agree to proceed. In surrogacy and reproductive technologies, this means explaining medical risks to the surrogate, potential outcomes for the child, legal and financial implications, and the ability to withdraw consent, in a way the person can truly comprehend. While confidentiality, nonmaleficence, and justice are important ethical principles, they do not specifically guarantee understanding and voluntary agreement. Therefore, the principle that ensures patient understanding and agreement is informed consent.