The IVF and Gender Selection of Baby: All you need to know

Introduction:

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) has emerged as a beacon of hope for countless couples striving to conceive. According to Dr. Parminder Kaur MBBS, DGO, DNB, Senior Consultant – Fertility & IVF , Sector 43, Chandigarh, In a nation like India, where fertility is often intertwined with social standing and personal fulfillment, the allure of IVF is profound. Amidst the myriad possibilities that IVF unveils, gender selection of the baby holds a unique allure for some, fueled by cultural and personal desires. This article aims to navigate the intricate tapestry of IVF and gender selection within the Indian diaspora.

Legal Aspects:

The arena of gender selection through IVF is tightly regulated by the Indian legal framework. The Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act of 1994 against prenatal sex determination, which was further fortified by an amendment in 2003. The act was instated to combat female feticide and gender imbalances in the society​​. Under the aegis of this act, divulging the gender of the fetus during pregnancy or opting for gender selection through IVF and PGD (Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis) carries stringent legal repercussions.

Techniques involved in Gender Selection through IVF:

The scientific expanse of gender selection is intricate, but at its crux lies PGD. PGD allows the examination of the embryo at the genetic level, paving the way for gender selection. Specifically, embryo biopsy coupled with Fluorescent In-Situ Hybridization (FISH) is employed to discern the gender of embryos, facilitating family balancing endeavors in certain private IVF clinics​. These procedures are typically conducted on the third day post-fertilization, followed by the transfer of selected embryos on the fourth day.

Ethical Concerns:

The ethical dimensions of gender selection through IVF are complex and often mirror the societal norms prevalent in India. The strong offspring, desire for male highlighted by an IVF specialist from Chennai, reflects a deep-seated societal bias that proliferates even in the realm of assisted reproductive technologies​​. The ethical quagmire extends beyond personal choices, and beckons a thorough examination of societal norms and gender biases.

Family Balancing:

Family balancing, as a notion, transcends the simplistic desire for a male or female child. It embodies a quest for a balanced family structure that resonates with personal, cultural, and sometimes medical considerations. Through IVF and gender selection, couples can embark on a journey towards achieving a desired family equilibrium, albeit within the legal and ethical boundaries delineated by the society and the nation at large​.

Conclusion:

The confluence of IVF and gender selection unveils a realm of possibilities and debates. It’s a narrative that’s deeply entrenched in the legal, ethical, and societal fabric of India. As we traverse this narrative, the importance of engaging with fertility specialists to comprehend the profound implications and procedures involved in IVF and gender selection becomes paramount. It’s a journey that beckons a blend of awareness, understanding, and adherence to the legal and ethical frameworks that govern the domain of IVF and gender selection in India.

For more information and to track your IVF journey, check out the MH IVF Calendar. Stay informed, stay empowered.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Parminder Kaur, please book your appointment here.