Dr. Richa Sharma
Human is a social animal and to family is an important part of our life and society which is not considered complete till we have a baby. But all couples are not fortunate enough or when biological clock has crossed that time phase, then science of ART(Assisted Reproductive Techniques) is there to help to bring smiles on face of couples and to bestow them the best feeling of the world they deserve.
In the emerging world of test tube baby, there’s a New Player, formally called a “THIRD PARTY” who can facilitate ways to conceive, or carry a pregnancy and give birth.
WHAT IS THIRD PARTY REPRODUCTION ?
Third party reproduction refers to a process where another person provides sperm or eggs or where another woman provides her uterus so that a woman can have a child. Thus the reproductive process goes beyond the traditional father-mother model. However, the third party’s involvement is limited to the reproductive process and does not extend into the raising of the child
Party Reproduction & Parenting, HOW?
* It comprises of-Oocyte donation
* Sperm Donation
* Embryo Donation
* IVF with gestational carrier (Surrogacy)
Surrogacy and its varied aspects-
“Surrogacy”, means an arrangement in which a woman agrees to a pregnancy achieved through ART, in which neither of the gametes belong to her or her husband, with the intention to carry it to term and handover the child to the person or persons for whom she is acting as a surrogate.
Although the treatment process is in it self straightforward, surrogacy has brought with it very complex ethical, legal and moral issues
Aims- To build and complete a family to bring joy of parenthood even in desperate situations where no hope is left
Indications of surrogacy-
* Women with absence of uterus
* Women with hysterectomy for various reasons
* Women who suffer repeated miscarriages
* Repeated IVF failure – due to non receptive uterus
* Women with certain medical conditions – severe heart disease, kidney disease
* Women for whom the prospect of carrying a baby to term is very remote
The options available through third party reproduction provide many couples the opportunity to make their dream of parenthood a reality. The comprehensive nature of the screening and counseling.Ethical, moral and legal issues involved. Ultimate goal of physicians, Psychologists, Fertility guides, and attorneys specializing in reproductive law- to enable smooth process and bring joy of parenthood and complete the family .
(The author is IVF consultant Bournhall, New Delhi)
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