Description and bioethical analysis of:
Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis PGD
Surrogate motherhood
“Snowflake babies”
Artificial insemination
What is Natural Family Planning (NFP)?
Describe the 3 Primary ovulation symptoms.
Describe the 7 Secondary ovulation symptoms.
Describe various protocols and methods available today.
Describe some ways in which NFP is healthier than contraception.
Guide On Rating System
Vote
Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) is a reproductive technology used to screen embryos for genetic disorders before implantation during in vitro fertilization (IVF). It involves removing one or two cells from the developing embryo to test for genetic abnormalities. PGD allows couples with a known genetic condition to select embryos free from the disorder, increasing the chances of a healthy pregnancy and reducing the risk of passing genetic diseases to their offspring. However, PGD raises ethical concerns as it involves the selection and potentially discarding of embryos based on their genetic makeup, which some argue can lead to the devaluation of human life.
Surrogate motherhood refers to an arrangement where a woman carries a pregnancy and gives birth to a child on behalf of another individual or couple. This process involves the use of assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), in which the intended parents' embryos are implanted into the surrogate's uterus. Surrogate motherhood raises many ethical considerations, including issues of exploitation, commodification of the woman's body, and questions surrounding the legal and emotional rights and responsibilities of all parties involved.
"Snowflake babies" refer to embryos that have been cryopreserved (frozen) following IVF procedures. These embryos are then transferred to another woman's uterus to achieve a pregnancy either by the intended parents or adoptive parents. The term "snowflake" is used to symbolize the uniqueness of each individual embryo. This practice raises ethical concerns related to the moral status of the frozen embryos and the decision-making process around their disposition.
Artificial insemination is a reproductive technology that involves the introduction of sperm into a woman's reproductive tract, typically through procedures such as intrauterine insemination (IUI). It can be used by couples dealing with infertility or by individuals who wish to become single parents or same-sex couples. Artificial insemination raises ethical considerations such as the involvement of a third party donor, the potential creation of children with unknown biological relations, and the objectification of the sperm donor.
Natural Family Planning (NFP), also known as fertility awareness-based methods, is a form of contraception that involves observing and charting a woman's menstrual cycle to determine the fertile and infertile periods. It relies on avoiding sexual intercourse or using barrier methods during fertile periods to prevent pregnancy. NFP methods are based on the understanding of a woman's natural fertility signs and can be used for both achieving or avoiding pregnancy.
The three primary ovulation symptoms in NFP are basal body temperature (BBT) change, changes in cervical mucus, and changes in cervical position. BBT, measured upon waking up, tends to rise after ovulation. Changes in cervical mucus include an increase in quantity and changes in consistency. The cervix also undergoes changes in position and texture during ovulation.
The seven secondary ovulation symptoms in NFP are mittelschmerz (abdominal pain or discomfort), increased sex drive, breast tenderness, bloating, mild pelvic pain, heightened sense of smell and taste, and mild mood swings. These symptoms can vary in intensity and may not be experienced by everyone.
Various protocols and methods are used in NFP, including the symptothermal method (combining multiple signs), the Creighton Model (based on cervical mucus), the standard days method (calculating based on a fixed calendar), and the Billings Ovulation Method (based on cervical mucus changes). These methods rely on accurate observation and charting of menstrual cycle patterns to determine fertility or infertility.
NFP is considered healthier than contraception for several reasons. Firstly, it does not involve the use of hormonal contraceptives, which can have side effects such as weight gain, mood changes, and increased risks of blood clots and certain cancers. Secondly, NFP methods encourage couples to have open communication and mutual understanding of their fertility, promoting a healthier relationship. Additionally, NFP allows for a better understanding and connection with one's own body and reproductive health. Lastly, NFP is in line with some religious and moral beliefs that oppose artificial contraception.