Artificial reproduction and ethical considerations

Abstract

As a result of the advances in human reproduction over the last 10 years, man has entered a new era. Techniques have been developed which some moralists have attacked as pertaining to the assisting in the creation of man. These techniques include artificial insemination, prenatal diagnosis and, more recently, in-vitro fertilization. Soon, other new methods, will develop to improve the quality of human reproduction. At the same time these spectacular advances raise problems in matters of public expectations, ethics, morality and legality which cannot be evaded. There are many questions to which we have to find answers. What are the rights of the individual in these matters, what moral issues are involved? Should techniques of artificial reproduction be used only for married couples, or would single women or widows be allowed to benefit from them? Is artificial reproduction an alternative method of procreation individuals can use freely or is it a medical act intended to overcome infertility in women and men? What are the rights of the child born through the application of one of these new methods and how should these rights be protected? Also there are questions concerning consent and of anonymity of persons involved in the procedure of artificial reproduction as well as questions concerning the requirements people should meet before having access to methods of artificial reproduction. Who is authorised to perform such procedures?