In vitro Fertilization Carolyn Allen
T
he birth of a child is arguably one of the most amazing things one can experience. As human beings, we have a biological desire to have children and thus preserve our genes and family names. However, some people cannot have children. What are they to do? In the field of medicine, scientists and doctors have made some astounding scientific discoveries that have changed the world forever. Some of these discoveries have been positive, others negative. IVF, or in vitro fertilization, is one of these discoveries. Nonetheless, there is some debate on whether IVF is ethical, with several arguments supporting each side. As expressed in the following sections, this paper will argue that IVF is unethical because it contradicts the innate sanctity of life and the natural conjugal act of procreation. Description of the Practice In vitro fertilization (IVF) is “a complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child.”1 It is the most common and effective form of assistive reproductive technology (ART). The term “in vitro” is a Latin derivative that means “in glass.”2 This means that the term “in vitro fertilization” translates to “fertilization in glass,” or in-glass fertilization. The concept of IVF dates back to 1878, but the first successful human attempt of IVF wasn’t until 1978 with the birth of Louise Brown.3 IVF can be a very intricate and intensive process. The chances of success of IVF depend on several factors, including the reason for infertility, age, weight, and other health factors. IVF can also be timeMayo Clinic Staff, “In Vitro Fertilization (IVF),” Mayo Clinic (2019). https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/in-vitro-fertilization/about/pac-20384716. 2 Tian Zhu, “In Vitro Fertilization,” The Embryo Project Encyclopedia (2009). https://embryo.asu.edu/pages/vitro-fertilization. 3 Ibid. 1
