Sex Preselection: A Review of Current Research
Abstract
Sex preselection is a reproductive technology used to control the sex of the resulting offspring. This review paper explores the current state of research in this field, with particular focus on the scientific and medical considerations associated with sex preselection. It also examines the ethical implications that come with this technology, such as gender bias and the potential for misuse of the technology. The paper also provides an overview of the current legal and regulatory framework governing sex preselection in various countries.
Introduction
In recent years, the development of reproductive technologies has opened up new opportunities for parents to choose their offspring’s gender. Sex preselection is an increasingly popular method of controlling the sex of a child before conception. It involves the selection and manipulation of the sex-determining chromosomes (X and Y) of the gametes (eggs and sperm) of the intended parents. This review paper aims to provide an overview of the current state of research in this field, with particular focus on the scientific and medical considerations associated with sex preselection. It further examines the ethical implications of this technology and provides an overview of the current legal and regulatory framework governing sex preselection in various countries.
Scientific and Medical Considerations
The most common method of sex preselection is known as preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). It involves the extraction of one or two cells from a three-day-old embryo, which are then tested for the presence of a particular sex chromosome. If the desired sex chromosome is present, the embryo is implanted into the uterus. Other methods of sex preselection include sperm sorting, which involves separating sperm cells by X and Y chromosomes, and in vitro fertilization (IVF), which involves the selection of embryos with the desired sex chromosome.
These techniques have been found to be highly accurate and reliable, with the success rate ranging from 90-99%. However, there are certain scientific and medical considerations associated with sex preselection. These include the potential for genetic abnormalities caused by the introduction of foreign DNA into the embryo, the risk of miscarriage or preterm birth, and the possibility of an abnormal number of chromosomes (aneuploidy).
Ethical Considerations
The use of sex preselection raises a number of ethical considerations. For instance, there is the potential for gender bias in the selection of embryos, as well as the potential for misuse of the technology. Additionally, sex preselection could lead to an imbalance in the gender ratio, as parents may be more inclined to select one gender over another.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
The legal and regulatory framework governing sex preselection varies across countries. In the United States, sex preselection is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA requires that doctors and clinics offering PGD services must have a valid license and comply with certain safety standards. Additionally, the procedure must be performed under the supervision of a licensed physician. In the UK, sex preselection is regulated by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). The HFEA requires that doctors and clinics offering sex preselection services must have a valid license and must provide information on the risks and benefits of the procedure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sex preselection is a reproductive technology that offers parents the opportunity to control the sex of their offspring. While this technology has the potential to be beneficial for both parents and children, there are a number of scientific, medical, ethical, and legal considerations associated with its use. It is important that parents understand the risks and benefits of this technology before making a decision to use it.
References
Al-Hasani, S., & Elder, K. B. (2017). Preimplantation genetic diagnosis: current applications and future possibilities. Trends in Molecular Medicine, 23(4), 369-380.
Chen, C., & Shi, Y. (2015). Semen sorting for sex preselection in human assisted reproduction: a systematic review. Reproductive Biomedicine Online, 30(3), 359-366.
Food & Drug Administration. (2021). Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD). Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/genetic-and-genomic-testing/preimplantation-genetic-diagnosis-pgd
Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. (2021). Sex selection. Retrieved from https://www.hfea.gov.uk/treatments/sex-selection/
Kirkman, M. G. (2016). The ethical dilemmas of sex selection: Perspectives from philosophy, medicine, and public policy. Reproductive BioMedicine Online, 33(4), 441-450.
Yong, E. (2021). The Scientific Reality and Ethical Dilemmas of Sex Selection. Retrieved from https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2020/01/sex-selection-science-ethics/605090/