1. Assisted Reproductive Technologies Chapter 6.3

2. Assisted Reproductive Technologies Many couples can be infertile due to complications related to the reproductive system. It could be a physical complication or a hormonal complication (chemical imbalance). Infertility is the inability of a couple to have a baby. Assisted reproductive technologies involve removing eggs from the woman, fertilizing them, and returning them to the uterus. Reproductive technologies help childless couples, but carry a higher risk of birth defects. Also creates the problem of “unwanted” embryos. What should be done with them?

3. Types of Assisted Reproductive Technologies Artificial Insemination Donor sperm is collected and placed in the female. First developed for animals more than 200 years ago. Used with much success in humans when there are not enough sperm produced by males and sperm can be concentrated. Many couples may receive donated sperm from sperm banks.

4. Types of Assisted Reproductive Technologies In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Egg and sperm are collected and fertilization takes place in a dish. Embryo(s) then placed in female’s uterus. “In vitro” means “in glass” referring to technology using petri dishes. Used with females with blocked fallopian tubes. Eggs and sperm are combined and after about 4 days the developing embryo is implanted into the female.

6. Types of Assisted Reproductive Technologies Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT) Eggs and sperm are collected, mixed, then injected into the woman’s fallopian tubes. The mixture of sperm and eggs are immediately injected into the woman’s fallopian tubes so fertilization takes place inside the woman.

7. Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT)

8. Types of Assisted Reproductive Technologies Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) A single sperm is injected directly into an egg. This is done using very high tech equipment and is used when a male has a severe fertility problem with a very low sperm count.

9. Impact of Reproductive Technologies Positive impact Assist many couples who would not otherwise be able to have children Improves breeding of animals Frozen embryos can be used in stem cell research Elimination of embryos that are defective Gene therapy research is possible

10. Impact of Reproductive Technologies Negative impact Data shows more birth defects due to IVF Many more aborted embryos Question of who owns these embryos Disclosure of information Surrogate mothers may change their mind Embryos getting mixed up Designer babies Section 6.3 Quiz