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Article
The Medical Nonnecessity of In Vitro Fertilization
IJFAB: International Journal of Feminist Approaches to Bioethics
  • Carolyn McLeod, The University of Western Ontario
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
4-1-2017
URL with Digital Object Identifier
https://doi.org/10.3138/ijfab.10.1.78
Disciplines
Abstract

Debate has raged in Canada recently over whether in vitro fertilization (IVF) should be funded through public health insurance. Such a move would require that the provinces classify IVF as a medically necessary service. In this paper, I defend the position I have taken publicly—especially in Ontario, my own province—that IVF is not medically necessary. I contend that, by funding IVF on grounds of medical necessity, governments like Ontario's violate their commitments to equality and fairness, and cause harm. They do the last by suggesting that the lives of people who forgo procreation, and perhaps have children in other ways (e.g., through adoption), will be stunted.

Citation Information
Carolyn McLeod. "The Medical Nonnecessity of In Vitro Fertilization" IJFAB: International Journal of Feminist Approaches to Bioethics Vol. 10 Iss. 1 (2017) p. 78 - 102
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/carolyn-mcleod/47/