Gender Selection: The Debate - By: Victoria Caldwell

Gender selection has become increasingly popular in the last few years with the help of recent advancements in technology. Currently three methods of gender selection are available, each varying in level of technology, accuracy, and of course cost. Staining technology and sperm sorting are the first two options. PGD, being the most expensive, is also the most debatable of the three techniques.

PGD was originally used as a method to identify embryos that showed evidence of genetic disorder only, and not for gender selection. The intent was to minimize the risk that couples with a history of genetic disorder would have a child with genetic or chromosomal abnormalities. PGD is still used for this purpose with little debate, however the ethical debate arises when the procedure is sought out for the sole purpose of gender selection.

The reason for concern is the issues that arise as a result of discriminating against one gender over the other. The problem is that that most couples seek this option to have a male child. Unwarranted gender selection raises concerns of creating and sustaining a gender discriminatory society. Those who are pro gender selection state that it would only increase the value of women due to more competition among men. Those who oppose the idea do so on the basis that it would not create value for women but the exact opposite. This type of “free-will” creates an artificial imbalance and is a breeding ground for larger problems.

Religious and ethical views frown on individuals trying to “play God” and the issue that children are now becoming marketable commodities. After choosing the gender, you don't have to stop there, you can choose eye and hair color also, in essence you can design your own baby. Another ethical issue with PGD is what to do with the remaining embryos that do not “make the cut.” For those who believe that life has actually started at this stage, it becomes an issue of throwing away or aborting a life.

To avoid falling into the ethical trap, many clinics only offer PGD for health precautions, which includes gender selection for the purpose of avoiding sex-related diorders. However, with rising demand, more and more facilities are offering gender selection regardless of their purpose. Couples who have chosen gender selection should not be singled out as being unethical because often times the decision is merely based on personal preference or societal factors without considering the ethical issues involved. For those suffering from infertility, the issue is less likely to appear, as value is placed on being able to conceive a child whether male or female.

About the Author

Victoria Caldwell is founder of Infertility Journeya site that provides valuable information, products, and resources for infertility patients. Gender Selection

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Victoria-Caldwell/20289

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