Ethical Issues of Reproductive Technologies: Designer Babies, Sex ...

should be noted that individuals with life-limiting illnesses are not
prohibited from reproduction because of their shortened life
expectancy. [19] In addition, Strong [1] makes the point that if a couple
were to have a child at the age of 60, on average the life expectancy for
the woman would be another 23 years, and for the man, another 19
years. Thus, on average the child would be a young adult before its
parents died. Having considered the above arguments I feel we cannot
say absolutely that oocyte donation to older post-menopausal women is
‘right’ or ‘wrong’. Whilst it can be argued that infertility should remain the
natural characteristic of the menopause, I do not consider this reason
persuasive enough to deem the practice unethical in every case. [19]
There are many factors we have to take into account, such as the
woman’s age, health, and personal circumstances. The specifics of each
case should be carefully considered by the prospective parents and
physician involved before choosing oocyte donation. [19]
Conclusion
There are clearly many ethical issues to consider with regards to
reproductive technologies and many viewpoints to be looked at, all of
which cannot be included in the constraints of this essay. New
reproductive technologies are helping infertile couples have the children
they yearn for, and additionally, are saving lives and preventing disease.
The good it will bring about is the moral motive for intervening in the
natural lottery of life. [21] It must be remembered however, that
regulations must be set in place to avoid the use of these powerful
technologies for inappropriate purposes.
Rachael undertook the 2 nd Year Student Selected Component ‘Reproductive
Technology” co-ordinated by Professor Sheena Lewis, School of Medicine, Dentistry
and Biomedical Sciences, QUB in spring 2006 and was joint runner-up in the Forum’s
2006 Essay Competition.
94