in vitro fertilization

Artificial Insemination research began in the late 1800’s and became widely experimented throughout the first half of the 20th century. There was not one single creator for the method, but a collaboration between many doctors and scientists (pbs.org). In vitro fertilization is a process by which egg cells are fertilized by sperm outside of the womb. The Latin term in vitro means within the glass. The procedure got this name because the process is done in glass containers such as Petri dishes. Babies conceived using IVF have often been referred to as “test tube babies” (Wikipedia).
IVF conception starts with stimulating the woman’s ovaries and inducing ovulation. After this, anywhere from ten to thirty eggs are retrieved from the uterus. Once in the laboratory, the eggs as well as the sperm are treated so that they are prepared for fertilization. The two are incubated together for about 18 hours, which is enough time for the egg to be fertilized. Once it reaches a certain stage and is now an embryo, it is transferred back into the woman’s uterus for the continuation of the pregnancy (Pandora’s Baby).
In vitro fertilization was created to replace surgical approaches for fertility therapy. It is a revolutionary way for couples to get pregnant when it is not happening naturally (Brave New World). Despite the positive aspects of IVF, there can be many complications and it is the topic of much controversy. First of all, the treatment can carry physical as well as emotional burdens on the mother as well as long term health risks. Often the process takes several tries and a number of treatment sessions. This can be stressful to the patient as well as expensive (Brave New World).
IVF has sparked controversy and ethics. When it was first introduced it was very unpopular. Many people thought it would be the first step towards controversial scientific research. This includes things such as genetic engineering, designer babies, stem cell research and human cloning (Pandora’s Baby). Some other ethical issues surrounding IVF include who it should be able to be used for, specifically older woman past the age of menopause and same-sex couples. It is also widely opposed by religious denominations, as they see it as “taking God’s work and putting it into their own hands” (pbs.org).
Many people are for it because it gives infertile couples a chance to have a child of their own. It may not be the easiest process but in the end it will change peoples lives. People are against it because of the ethical and controversial issues surrounding it. There are definitely pros and cons surrounding the topic. My opinion is that IVF is a fertility treatment that should be used. While I understand the research aspect could lead to dangerous things like cloning, I think the act of creating a life for a couple who can’t conceive on their own is brilliant. I think children are important and that it is worth the risk of getting this procedure if necessary. I did not know much about this topic before my research, but now I definitely have a stronger opinion and stance on the topic.