Silikoniperhe

Silikoniperhe, also known as a "plastic family" or "silicone family," refers to a family that has adopted children through surrogacy, typically using a gestational carrier. The term "silikoniperhe" originated in Finland, where it gained popularity in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The name is derived from the silicone used in the gestational carrier's womb, which is often referred to as a "silicone womb."

Silikoniperhe families are typically composed of a married couple, a gestational carrier, and the adopted child or children. The gestational carrier is usually a woman who agrees to carry the child for the intended parents, often in exchange for financial compensation. The intended parents may be married or unmarried, and they may be biological parents, step-parents, or other relatives of the gestational carrier.

Silikoniperhe families face a variety of legal, ethical, and social challenges. In some countries, surrogacy is illegal or heavily regulated, which can make it difficult for intended parents to access gestational carriers. Additionally, there are concerns about the potential for exploitation and coercion in surrogacy arrangements. Some critics argue that silikoniperhe families are not true families, as the gestational carrier is not a biological parent of the child.

Despite these challenges, silikoniperhe families have become increasingly common in many countries. In Finland, for example, silikoniperhe families accounted for nearly half of all births in 2019. The popularity of silikoniperhe families reflects broader trends in fertility treatment and family formation, as well as changing attitudes towards adoption and surrogacy.