In Vitro Fertilization and Assisted Reproductive Technology

Abstract

In vitro fertilization represents a biotech procedure that largely has been privatized between patients and medical personnel. Even though it bears directly on procreation and is fundamental to the creation of life, it is not controversial in most places around the world. It does not evoke protests that doctors and patients are “playing God” or creating Frankenstein monsters. Activists do not sit outside infertility clinics demanding patient boycotts and an end to the therapy. Countries either have passed no legislation to regulate practices in this area, or they have minimal rules that allow scientists, private companies, and patients to make major decisions on their own, unimpeded by governmental restrictions.