I am interested in fertility treatment but I have not as yet approached my GP as I am concerned about the cost. I read about a scheme whereby IVF patients can donate eggs for research in return for cheap IVF treatment. However in the news this week there was concern about the research which may be undertaken and whether women may feel pressured into donating their eggs in return for treatment. Where does the law stand on this?
The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority has issued a licence to a fertility centre in Newcastle to allow women undergoing IVF treatment to donate eggs (which would be used for cloning research) in return for cheap treatment. The eggs used are to carry out research into stem cell treatment. Up until now, researchers have not been able to pay for donated eggs. Although the licence has been granted, further funding is required and it is thought that it will be at least a year before this scheme is up and running. Research is to be undertaken to ensure safeguards are in place so that patients are protected and do not feel coerced into donating their eggs.
The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority are now carrying out consultation to assess opinion on these proposals despite having already granted a licence to the clinic in Newcastle.
The arguments against using human eggs for therapeutic cloning include the fact that it is unethical and animal eggs can be used instead. The arguments for the research are that the study would provide information on inherited diseases specific to humans which cannot be obtained in any other way. It would appear that the consultation puts forward a range of suggested safeguards for discussion.
In your situation, I would strongly recommend you discuss the issues surrounding fertility treatment with your GP as soon as possible.
