To understand the ethical implications of intrauterine insemination (IUI), it is important to have a basic understanding of how IUI is performed.
IUI at a Glance
During IUI, the semen sample is collected from either the partner/husband of the patient or a sperm donor. This sample is then subjected to elaborative laboratory testing to identify the most suitable sperm. The concentrated form of the sample is then inserted upon the uterine tissue of the female patient, using a catheter. Thus, fertilization is achieved without the direct involvement of the male partner or the sperm donor.
Religious Views and Moral Implications
Though IUI treatment has now become one of the preferred means of achieving childbirth among infertile couples, it does present a moral dilemma for many who are contemplating artificial insemination. The question even has a religious notion for some people. Some people believe that separating the natural process of intercourse and procreation or conjugal union contradicts the natural form of human behavior. In fact, during 1968, Pope Paul VI, had issued a slightly controversial document titled, ‘Humanae Vitae’. This article essayed a very negative view of artificial insemination, indicating that the separation of procreative intention or mutually-acceptable conjugal relationship wasn’t appropriate.
IUI Raises Contradictions against Concept of Attaining Parenthood
A major question related to intrauterine insemination is the kind of parenthood that is sought through this procedure. This process rules out certain established notions like parenthood stemming from marriage and a mutual union between a man and woman. In many cases, IUI is even sought by single mothers, i.e. using the sperm from a sperm bank. This kind of IUI application raises questions against the parenthood status of people who have achieved parenthood through IUI.
Common Ethical Question in Intrauterine Insemination: Who Is the Father?
The sourcing of sperm from an unrelated male donor puts forth a complex question that has often engaged serious arguments. The question is regarding the status of the sperm donor—shouldn’t he have parental rights since he has biologically contributed to the fertilization of the embryo? Though the legalities regulating IUI treatments now ensure that such claims cannot be made by the donor, the question can make some couples apprehensive about seeking IUI.
Ethical Questions Regarding Male Infertility
In many cases, the use of IUI for male infertility has been contradicted. Some people opine that seeking IUI treatment as a means to solve problems induced due to oligospermia or low sperm count isn't justifiable. Oligospermia is treatable among many males and can be cured over a period. However, many couples seek IUI, not accepting to wait for conventional treatment to take its due course. This is often regarded as unwarranted use of IUI.
Commoditization of Reproduction
Commoditization refers to a process of outright commercialization of an entity. Usually, it refers to commercialization in a slightly derogative manner, i.e. when something sacred or usually regarded as unworthy of being saleable is marketed. For many ethicists, intrauterine insemination seeks to commoditize parenthood by providing laboratory-controlled treatments. The spurt in the number of private, infertility clinics wherein IUI is often provided without proper guidance has worsened the critics’ opinion against intrauterine insemination. The use of sperm banks by many donors as a means to make ends meet has also empowered this opinion against intrauterine insemination.
