The Clinical In-Vitro Fertilization Laboratory

Kay Elder; Brian Dale

doi:10.1017/9781108611633.009

Chapter 8 - The Clinical In-Vitro Fertilization Laboratory

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 24 December 2019

Kay Elder and

Brian Dale

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Kay Elder: Affiliation:
Bourn Hall Clinic, Cambridge
Brian Dale: Affiliation:
Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Naples

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Summary

In the armory of medical technology available for alleviation of disease and quality of life enhancement, there is nothing to match the unique contribution of assisted reproductive technology (ART). There is no other life experience that matches the birth of a baby in significance and importance. The responsibility of nurturing and watching children grow and develop alters the appreciation of life and health, with a resulting long-term impact upon individuals, families and, ultimately, society. Thus, the combination of oocyte and sperm to create an embryo with the potential to develop into a unique individual cannot be regarded lightly, as merely another form of invasive medical technology, but must be treated with the respect and responsibility merited by the most fundamental areas of human life.

Type: Chapter
Information: In-Vitro Fertilization , pp. 156 - 179

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108611633.009 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2020

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