The Pros and Cons of Artificial Wombs
Sep 08, 2023
TECHNOLOGY,HEALTHDelve into the pros and cons of artificial wombs, including ethical and legal aspects and the term 'gestateling' for fetuses in this technology.
Artificial womb technology mimics the womb's internal environment by providing laboratory-made amniotic fluid and oxygenation via an oxygenator connected to the fetal umbilical cord.
The technology works by simulating uterine environmental conditions akin to if the neonate had never been born. This contrasts with the artificial conditions utilized to sustain life under intensive care. Artificial womb technology is designed to replace the natural function of the maternal womb rather than facilitate a newborn rescue.
The idea of artificial womb technology inevitably draws ethical debate regarding the benefits and harms to the fetus, parents, and society. Additional legal implications over the status of the fetus and associated discussion about the appropriate terminology to be used also come into question. One proposal for describing the product inside an artificial womb (i.e., to distinguish this from the natural fetus or neonate) is 'gestateling.'
The pros and cons of artificial womb technology
The prospect of utilizing artificial womb technology for a fetus aged 22–25 weeks is very real. Indeed, artificial wombs are already in development. One benefit of this is the hope that the artificial womb may reduce the risks of morbidity and mortality.
In addition, artificial womb technology could benefit maternal health and spare parents the distress of seeing their premature infant hooked up to a ventilator in intensive care. A downside would be the mother having to undergo a Caesarean section.
Moving away from the pros and cons for the fetus or 'gestateling' and the parents and looking at how the technology might affect society at large, benefits can be envisaged in terms of cost savings in reducing comorbidities in neonates.
However, artificial womb technology could increase the need for intensive care for infants who would not otherwise have survived without this intervention. Another point on the plus side for artificial womb technology is the advantage of a clearer understanding of fetal physiology and development. Indeed, this technology looks set to increase our capacity for visualizing gestation.
A distinction must be made between partial ectogenesis for medical management of neonates needing intensive care and thus medical management, and non-medical reasons (such as avoiding pregnancy). This notion is not feasible at present (though the IVF fetus is viable from weeks 0-4 and is not inconceivable) but has nonetheless drawn much interest.
The notion of complete ectogenesis remains, at present, an abstract concept. Yet the very idea of it has drawn the interest of the world media and captured the minds of the public.
This does not stop us from speculating on the potential pros and cons of artificial womb technology in connection with complete ectogenesis. The concept has been catapulted into the heart of the debate over abortion. Artificial womb technology offers up the potential to be an alternative to abortion, and this benefit is not lost on pro-choice advocates.
Some feminists have pointed out the inherent dangers of this fact. The debate is complex, and others have pointed out the potential of this futuristic technology for liberating women and enhancing gender equality.
In the workplace, realizing artificial womb technology could enable parenthood without the usual need for a leave of absence for a pregnancy. Others have raised concerns over the potential for the devaluation of pregnancy and the associated risks of losing female empowerment.
Another group drawn to the debate on artificial wombs are transhumanists who see technology as a means for improving human quality of life.
The prospect of artificial wombs for humans does not seem far away. However, beyond the hype there are many pros and cons to consider, in addition to a host of legal and ethical implications.
top 5 doctors & clinics in AI - Artificial Insemination:
5.0Turkey, İstanbulFertility
Medical Park Hospital, which has been serving in the Bahçelievler district of Istanbul since 2007, continues its activities in cooperation with Altınbaş University. Medical Park Bahçelievler Hospital offers privileged health services for everyone with its experienced physician staff, multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment approach, innovative medical technologies, patient-oriented service approach, advanced diagnosis and treatment methods. Medical Park Bahçelievler Hospital; It is a full-fledged hospital at international standards, serving patients from Turkey and abroad, in the center of the European side of Istanbul.
# 2
5.0United Kingdom, LondonFertility
London Women’s Clinic, established in 1985 at Harley Street, stands as a pioneering institution, spearheading numerous groundbreaking fertility techniques utilized today. With a team of proficient consultants and dedicated nursing staff spread across fourteen fertility clinics, we prioritize aiding individuals in comprehending and choosing the most suitable fertility treatment.Our comprehensive range of fertility treatments includes IVF (In Vitro Fertilization), Embryo Screening, Surrogacy, Egg Freezing, Donor Sperm, ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), Donor Eggs, IUI (Intrauterine Insemination), and Fertility MOT's. These advanced procedures and services are designed to address diverse fertility needs and support individuals on their unique journey toward parenthood.Whether you're exploring fertility options, seeking specialized treatments, or considering assisted reproductive techniques, London Women’s Clinic offers a wealth of expertise and personalized care. Our team strives to guide and support you through each stage of the fertility process, ensuring you receive the best possible guidance and treatment options tailored to your specific requirements.
# 3
5.0Turkey, İstanbulFertilityDr. Kayabaşoğlu began working at the Private Koşuyolu Women's Diseases Center, which focuses on gynecological endoscopic surgery, at the beginning of 2011. In January 2013, he joined the team at the Kadıköy Şifa Health Group IVF Unit, and later that year, he successfully completed the Turkish Ministry of Health IVF and Reproductive Treatment Certification Program at the VKV American Hospital IVF Center.In May 2014, Furkan Kayabaşoğlu founded ALLE with his fellow physicians. He continues to oversee all patient follow-ups, particularly in the areas of reproductive and IVF treatments, at ALLE Health. In 2019, he started offering educational programs for expectant parents, which he named "Campalle." These weekend-long programs, which are held according to a predetermined schedule, continue to be offered today.
# 4
5.0Turkey, İstanbulFertilityMedicana Çamlıca Hospital, established in 1999 as a premier healthcare institution on the Anatolian Side of Istanbul, stands as a beacon of excellence in the medical field. With a steadfast commitment to delivering unparalleled healthcare services, the hospital has gained prominence for its exceptional offerings across various specialized branches.Distinguished for its expertise and advanced facilities, Medicana Çamlıca Hospital excels in specialized medical disciplines such as Cardiology, Cardiovascular Surgery, Gastroenterology, Hemodialysis, Nephrology, Organ Transplantation, In Vitro Fertilization and Reproductive Health, Orthopedics and Traumatology, Hand Surgery, Microsurgery, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Thoracic Surgery, Endocrinology, Metabolic Diseases, Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Ophthalmology, and Pediatric Surgery.The hospital's comprehensive range of services caters to diverse medical needs, ensuring top-notch care backed by experienced professionals and cutting-edge technology. Medicana Çamlıca Hospital continues to be a trusted destination for individuals seeking exceptional healthcare solutions, offering a blend of expertise, innovation, and a commitment to patient-centric care on the Anatolian Side of Istanbul.
# 5
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