The UK’s fertility watchdog is considering the possibility of mass-producing eggs and sperm in a laboratory for potential use in unconventional parenting arrangements such as “multiplex parenting”. Scientists are making rapid progress in developing in-vitro gametes (IVGs) that could remove age barriers to conception and allow same-sex couples to have biological children together. However, the technology also presents ethical and medical risks that need to be carefully considered and regulated.
The use of IVGs could potentially lead to solo parenting, where an individual creates both the egg and sperm for fertilization, raising concerns about genetic disorders. On the other hand, multiplex parenting, where two couples are involved in creating embryos and deriving eggs and sperm from them, may have fewer biological risks and could be considered under certain circumstances.
The technology also raises concerns about the potential for eugenics if extensive embryo screening is allowed, as well as the challenges of higher-risk pregnancies in older mothers and children born to much older parents. The HFEA has recommended statutory regulation of IVGs to ensure their safe and ethical use in fertility treatment.
Overall, while IVGs hold the potential to revolutionize fertility treatment and expand options for parenthood, careful consideration of the ethical and medical implications is essential. The HFEA is calling for thorough regulation to address these concerns and ensure the responsible use of this emerging technology.
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