Fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) are becoming increasingly popular and advancing rapidly in the healthcare industry. As technology progresses, so does the complexity of ethical and religious debates surrounding these treatments. Are they in line with the teaching of Christianity? This article attempts to take a look at the considerations and opinions surrounding the use of IVF by Christians.
In Christianity, believers turn to the Bible and to their faith’s traditions to help guide them in their decisions. For years, many Christians have seen IVF in a negative light, viewing it as a sin for couples and violating God’s instructions to his people. While some Christian denominations take a hard-line against fertility treatments like IVF, others have softened their stance. In fact, some denominations have even come to accept the use of assisted reproductive technologies.
The debate isn’t only concerned with the actual act of IVF, but also with the myriad of decisions that couples, who opt for this treatment, have to make. For instance, many Christians are uncomfortable with the idea of embryos being created in a laboratory, frozen, and later discarded. Additionally, some Christians question the morality of using donated eggs and sperm, especially when it’s done solely for financial gain.
At the same time, there are those who view IVF as an act of mercy and love. They point out that infertility can be a heartbreaking issue, and view the use of IVF as a way to give couples the chance of conceiving a child. From this perspective, IVF can be seen as a way of providing couples with countless gifts, including joy, hope, and love.
Dr. Charles Peachey, a physician and theologian, believes that when it comes to IVF, couples should approach the decision with caution and thoughtfulness. Dr. Peachey highlights the importance of being open to God’s will, and suggests couples research the subject thoroughly, talk to spiritual leaders, and seek advice from medical experts. He also stresses the importance of finding an IVF center whose ethical principles are in-line with one’s faith.
In the end, it’s up to couples to make their own decisions. They should weigh the risks and benefits carefully and prayerfully, and consider the impact IVF will have on their souls and their relationship with God. As long as couples create with care and love, many Christian missionaries agree that there is room for assisted reproductive treatments in their religion.
Biblical View on IVF
In the Bible, God discussed procreation and how the family plays an integral role in His plan. God states that families should give their attention to the bearing of children and their care. Further, the book of Genesis states that “God blessed them, saying, be fruitful and multiply.” This generally encourages traditional forms of making babies, such as intercourse.
While families should look to follow the traditional plan of procreating, as most Christians would emphasize, it is important to remember that taking away the joy of children from those unable to have them through natural means would go against the loving nature of God. Furthermore, if the couple is married, it does not go against the notion of the traditional family structure, where children are both nurtured and loved by their parents.
The Bible also highlights the importance of prayer and guidance from God. As such, couples facing infertility should pray asking God to help in their situation as they seek medical help with IVF, and not just rely on the medical intervention. Seeking guidance involves researching the subject thoroughly, being well informed on the possible outcomes, speaking with doctors and professionals, and consulting with spiritual leaders.
Considering Physical Risks and Benefits
IVF entails a number of physical complications and risks. These include a high risk of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, possible multiple births and miscarriages, hormonal disturbances, and difficulty conceiving naturally in the future. Consequently, it is not the best option for couples, and these risks should be taken into account before making any decisions.
On the other hand, IVF can also present a number of physical benefits. For example, it can help infertile couples have a successful pregnancy, increase their chances of conceiving, and even enable them to have biological children. Additionally, the treatment can be beneficial for single parents, people with genetic diseases, same-sex couples and those who cannot have their own children due to other medical issues.
Church Teachings about IVF
Most Christian denominations do not actively encourage the use of IVF, but rather accept it as an option when done in accordance with God’s will. That said, opinions vary across sects, and couples should reach out to their spiritual leader, who can provide more detailed information and advice on the use of IVF.
The Catholic Church recognizes the physical and emotional pain that infertility can cause a couple. However, the Church is strongly opposed to new reproductive technologies, such as genetic engineering, cloning, and surrogacy. The Church does, however, accept the use of IVF as long as embryos are created and treated ethically, with due respect for their lives.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints considers infertility to be a cause of suffering, and states that couples should consider IVF when the physical and emotional conditions are favorable. The Church of England also views IVF as an acceptable option, but they advise couples to understand the process thoroughly, seek professional counsel, and be aware and mindful of the ethical and moral questions associated with it.
Legal Implications of IVF
In certain countries and states, legal implications also need to be taken into consideration before couples decide to undergo IVF. For instance, in some countries, a married couple must have a valid marriage certificate if they are to undergo IVF treatment, while other countries are stricter and require couples to take an oath to only use the embryos for procreation. Similarly, some countries also have laws in place to protect donors and surrogates.
Furthermore, there are also laws that regulate when and how embryos are created. In some cases, couples are required to produce a family tree to ensure that embryos are created from parents from different ethnicities. Such laws tend to forbid IVF from taking place when there is a likelihood of genetic defects.
Other legal provisions also involve rules with regards to the storage of embryos, and how couples are expected to handle any leftover embryos. Consequently, couples should become familiar with local laws prior to commencing the treatment.
Psychological Effect of IVF
Couples opting for IVF should be aware of the mental, emotional and physical challenges they may face while undergoing the treatment. Such challenges can include anxiety, depression, insomnia and relationship issues.
In addition to the traditional challenges of making babies, the added stress of IVF can hamper a couple’s relationship in a vast number of ways. Couples can become overwhelmed with grief and disappointment due to the failure of IVF, taking their toll on the relationship. The rollercoaster of emotions can cause a couple to be less communicative, limiting the potential of a relationship that can build a strong bond.
Even if a couple is successful in terms of getting pregnant, they still may struggle with the psychological consequences of IVF. It’s not uncommon for feelings of guilt and worry to overshadow the joy of pregnancy. Some people may develop doubts about the legitimacy of their relationship, feeling a disconnect between them and the baby. In such cases, seeking professional help can help overcome such issues.
Conclusion
Ultimately, couples have to consider their faith and their ethical and legal obligations when it comes to deciding on IVF. Each couple will have a unique circumstance to consider and make the best decision for themselves and their families as a whole. They should remember to pray for guidance and make sure they are well informed before making any decisions.
