Ethics

Question 1

when is embryo research permitted?

Answer 1

up to 14 days (primitive streak)

Question 2

when is abortion allowed up to?

Answer 2

23 weeks + 6 days

later if severely handicapped or significant risk to maternal life

Question 3

ethical issues around infertility

Answer 3

new treatments
rights of gametes (spare embryos)
confidentiality about parents/ donors
resource allocation, funding

Question 4

requirement for NHS-funded infertility treatment

Answer 4

• Unexplained infertility for at least 2 years
• Female under 40
• Female BMI 18.5-30
• Both partners must be non-smokers
• Both partners need to abstain from illegal substances
• No alcohol prior or during treatment
• No children living in home

Question 5

what is the human fertilisation and embryology authority (HFEA)

Answer 5

independent regulator overseeing the use of gametes and embryos in fertility treatment and research