With the advent of modern technology, we are now presented with a variety of ethical issues that we have never encountered before.
One of these involves assisted reproduction techniques, such as In Vitro Fertilization.
IVF is a bit more complicated than the basic artificial insemination process. Instead of sperm simply being placed in a woman’s uterus, IVF involves “combining eggs and sperm outside the body in a laboratory… Once an embryo or embryos form, they are then placed in the uterus” [1].
While at first glance this may seem like a great way to help women have their own children, this process has very serious drawbacks.
Of primary concern is the fact that IVF involves the intentional killing of many human embryos.
Some studies have indicated that only 4-5% of human embryos created actually survive until birth [2].
Any embryos that appear to have a defect are discarded without a second thought.
While IVF is currently very much legal, there needs to be more awareness about the details of IVF.
Many couples facing reproductive difficulties may find adoption to be the more loving option.
———————
References
[1] WebMD. (2011). “Infertility and In Vitro Fertilization.” WebMD, http://www.webmd.com/infertility-and-reproduction/guide/in-vitro-fertilization
[2] United States Congress, Committee on Small Business. Consumer Protection Issues Involved in In Vitro Fertilization Clinics. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1988, p. 26-7.
———————
Image from www.truegene.blogspot.com