How Major Religions view IVF

Written By Vitaly Kushnir

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a widely used assisted reproductive technology (ART) that has helped millions of couples and individuals achieve their dreams of parenthood. However, views on IVF vary significantly among major religions, often influenced by theological, ethical, and cultural considerations. Below is an overview of how some of the world’s major religions view IVF.

1. Christianity

Roman Catholicism

  • View: The Catholic Church opposes IVF because it separates the procreative and unitive aspects of marriage. The Church teaches that conception should occur through natural marital relations, not in a laboratory.

  • Key Concerns:

    • The destruction of embryos (which the Church considers morally equivalent to the loss of human life).

    • The use of third-party donors (sperm, eggs, or surrogates), which is seen as undermining the sanctity of marriage.

  • Acceptable Alternatives: Natural family planning and fertility treatments that assist conception within the context of marital intercourse.

Protestantism

  • View: Views on IVF vary widely among Protestant denominations. Many mainstream Protestant groups, such as Anglicans, Lutherans, and Methodists, are generally supportive of IVF as a means to help infertile couples.

  • Key Concerns:

    • The ethical treatment of embryos.

    • The use of third-party donors.

  • Acceptable Practices: Many Protestant couples use IVF but may avoid practices like embryo freezing or selective reduction.

Eastern Orthodoxy

  • View: The Eastern Orthodox Church is cautious about IVF but does not outright prohibit it. It emphasizes the sanctity of life and the importance of natural conception within marriage.

  • Key Concerns:

    • The moral status of embryos.

    • The potential for IVF to lead to the destruction of life.

  • Acceptable Practices: Some Orthodox Christians may use IVF if it aligns with their conscience and avoids embryo destruction.

2. Islam

  • View: IVF is generally permitted in Islam, provided it involves a married couple and does not involve third-party donors (sperm, egg, or surrogacy).

  • Key Concerns:

    • The use of donor gametes, which is considered akin to adultery.

    • The fate of unused embryos (they should not be destroyed or used for research).

  • Acceptable Practices: IVF is widely accepted in many Muslim-majority countries, and fertility clinics often operate in accordance with Islamic principles.

3. Judaism

  • View: IVF is generally supported within Judaism, particularly in cases where it helps a couple fulfill the mitzvah (commandment) of having children.

  • Key Concerns:

    • The ethical treatment of embryos.

    • The use of third-party donors, which may raise questions about lineage and inheritance.

  • Acceptable Practices: Many Jewish couples use IVF, and rabbis often provide guidance on how to navigate specific ethical issues.

4. Hinduism

  • View: Hinduism does not have a centralized authority, so views on IVF vary. However, IVF is generally accepted and widely practiced in India, where Hinduism is the dominant religion.

  • Key Concerns:

    • The ethical treatment of embryos.

    • The importance of having children as a religious and social duty.

  • Acceptable Practices: IVF is commonly used, and many Hindu couples view it as a blessing from the gods.

5. Buddhism

  • View: Buddhism does not have a unified stance on IVF, but it is generally viewed positively if it alleviates suffering and helps couples achieve happiness.

  • Key Concerns:

    • The ethical treatment of embryos.

    • The intention behind using IVF (it should be motivated by compassion, not attachment or desire).

  • Acceptable Practices: Many Buddhists support IVF as long as it is done with ethical considerations in mind.

6. Sikhism

  • View: Sikhism does not have specific teachings on IVF, but it is generally accepted as a means to help infertile couples.

  • Key Concerns:

    • The ethical treatment of embryos.

    • The importance of family and procreation.

  • Acceptable Practices: IVF is widely accepted among Sikhs, and many Sikh couples use it to build their families.

7. Jehovah’s Witnesses

  • View: Jehovah’s Witnesses generally avoid IVF because it may involve the destruction of embryos, which they believe violates the sanctity of life.

8. Mormonism (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)

  • View: The LDS Church does not explicitly prohibit IVF but encourages couples to prayerfully consider the ethical implications, particularly regarding the treatment of embryos.

Common Ethical Concerns Across Religions

While views on IVF vary, many religions share common ethical concerns, including:

  • The moral status of embryos and the avoidance of their destruction.

  • The use of third-party donors, which may raise questions about lineage, inheritance, and marital fidelity.

  • The potential for IVF to lead to selective reduction (termination of multiple pregnancies) or other morally contentious practices.

Final Thoughts

IVF is a deeply personal decision, and for many, it intersects with religious beliefs and values. If you’re considering IVF and your faith is an important part of your life, it is a good idea to consult with religious leaders, ethicists, or counselors who can provide guidance tailored to your beliefs. Many couples find ways to reconcile their faith with their desire to build a family, often by making choices that align with their religious and ethical principles.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you have concerns about your fertility, consult a healthcare provider.

Vitaly Kushnir
Previous

IVF Side Effects: What to Expect During Your Fertility Journey
Next

Exercise Guidelines During IVF