A controversial definition of the limitations on reproductive medicine in Germany
Kentenich, H.; Utz-Billing, I.
Zeitschrift für Arztliche Fortbildung und Qualitatssicherung 100(9-10): 659-665; Discussion 676, 724
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 1431-7621 PMID: 17269501 Document Number: 599637
In principle, all kinds of sterility therapy can be defined as "medicine of desire". Stimulation, insemination, in-vitro fertilisation and ICSI are established methods and paid for by statutory health insurers. Some types of sterility therapy, though, are forbidden in Germany and thus form part of a "medicine of desire". These methods are only practised in foreign countries: oocyte donation, pre-implantational genetic diagnosis, embryo selection, surrogate motherhood, therapeutic cloning and preparation of embryonic stem cells. Taking oocyte donation as an example, the question of whether it is reasonable to ban oocyte donation will be discussed from a medical, psychological and ethical perspective. From the point of view of medicine, oocyte donation has proved to be successful with birth rates of 25-40% per cycle. No serious objections emerged from the follow-up of children, couples and the relationship between parents and children.The pros and cons of a more liberal and open handling should be discussed from an ethical point of view. Medically, psychologically and ethically the ban of oocyte donation in Germany does not seem to be justified.