PGD,
Gender Selection and the Ethical Dilemma
The idea and practice of gender selection has
become increasing popular in recent years and with recent
advances in technology. Currently 3 methods of gender selection
are available, each varying in level of technology, accuracy
and of course cost. Sperm sorting by way of centrifuge and
staining technology are two options. PGD, being the most expensive,
is also the most controversial of the three techniques.
PGD was not originally used for gender selection,
but rather as a technique to identify embryos with signs of
genetic disorder. The purpose was to decrease the chances
that couples with a history of genetic disorder would have
a child with genetic or chromosomal abnormalities. PGD is
still used for this purpose without much debate, however the
ethical issues come in when the procedure is sought out for
the sole purpose of gender selection.
The cause of concern is the issues that arise
from discriminating against one gender over another. In most
cases, couples seeking this procedure do so to avoid having
girls. Unwarranted gender selection raises concerns of creating
and perpetuating a gender discriminatory society. Those who
are pro gender selection argue 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 unnatural imbalance and is a breeding ground for
bigger problems.
Religious and ethical views frown on the individuals
trying to “play God” and the issue that children
are now becoming marketable commodities. Gender is the main
factor, but if you’re in the process why not choose
physical features such as eye and hair color also? 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.
Due to the ethical issues involved, many clinics
will only perform PGD for health precautions, including gender
selection for the purpose of avoiding sex-related disorders.
However, with increasing demand, more and more facilities
are offering gender selection regardless of reason. Couples
who have opted for 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 arise, as value
is placed on being able to conceive a child whether male or
female.
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