Assisted Reproductive Techniques
QUICK LOOK AT THE CHAPTER AHEAD
Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is an option for couples who are unable to conceive naturally.
Sperm donation occurs when male sperm is artificially introduced into a woman’s cervical canal. The sperm may be that of her partner or of a donor.
Egg donation occurs when female ova are harvested from either a woman or a donor, and introduced to sperm in a specialized solution in a laboratory; the fertilized egg is then implanted into the woman’s uterine lining.
In vitro fertilization occurs by introducing sperm to ova in a specialized solution in a laboratory; the fertilized egg is then implanted into the woman’s uterine lining.
Although there is about a 90% chance of diagnosing the causes of infertility, the problem cannot always be corrected. Before seeking any assisted reproductive technology (ART), couples need thoughtful analysis, extensive research, and considerable caution. Figure 15-1 illustrates several assisted reproductive techniques.
COMMON ART PROCEDURESSperm Donation
When a couple determines that the problem is related to sperm, they have several choices, including sperm donation.
Artificial insemination by partner (AIP): AIP is when a woman is inseminated with her partner’s sperm. Sperm is introduced into the cervical canal or uterus, thereby avoiding any potential problems with vaginal fluids.
Donor insemination: Artificial insemination by donor sperm, or donor insemination, is used more frequently than AIP when the partner’s sperm count is low, when the male partner is sterile, or when there is a background of genetic disorders, or Rh incompatibility.
Sperm banks: The appeal of this technique lies in the screening processes used, which are intended to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). In 1985, mandatory screening of donors for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and freezing and quarantining of semen became required (CDC, 1985), resulting in virtually no women being infected with donated semen. A 2007 study looked at 160 couples who chose sperm washing prior to artificial insemination because the male was HIV positive and the female was not: none of the women became infected with HIV (Savasi et al., 2007).
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