BIO 602 STU MOD 4 Woman Has the Right to Choose Contraception Method Question

Expert Solution Preview

Introduction:
In this assignment, we will discuss IVF and NFP and its various components. The ethical analysis of Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD), surrogate motherhood, “Snowflake babies,” and artificial insemination will be presented. We will also describe NFP and the primary and secondary ovulation symptoms. The various protocols and methods available today will be discussed, along with the comparison of NFP to contraception in terms of health. Finally, we will provide a bioethical evaluation of NFP as a means and an end and summarize the ERD paragraphs 38, 39, 42, 43, 44, and 52.

1. Description and bioethical analysis of:

a. Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD): PGD is a technique that allows for the selection of embryos based on genetic characteristics. This technique is used to prevent the transmission of genetic disorders and chromosomal abnormalities. The bioethical analysis of PGD is complex. Catholics consider PGD to be morally acceptable if it is used as a therapeutic intervention and not for the production of “designer babies.”

b. Surrogate motherhood: Surrogate motherhood is an arrangement in which a woman carries and births a child for another couple. The ethics of surrogate motherhood are controversial. The primary concern is that it can exploit women by treating them as a means to an end. Catholics believe that, while surrogacy is morally permissible in exceptional cases, it should not be considered as a means of bearing children.

c. “Snowflake babies”: Snowflake babies are embryos that have been frozen and stored for future use. The ethical concerns arise when these embryos are no longer required, and couples must decide whether to donate them for research or destroy them. Catholics believe that the destruction of embryos, whether for research or otherwise, is a violation of the sanctity of human life.

d. Artificial insemination: Artificial insemination involves the introduction of sperm into a woman’s reproductive system to facilitate fertilization. The ethical concerns with artificial insemination arise when donors are used, leading to issues of anonymous fatherhood, lack of informed consent, and exploitation.

2. Natural Family Planning (NFP):

NFP is a method of regulating conception without the use of artificial contraception. It involves tracking and recording a woman’s menstrual cycle to determine fertility and abstaining from sexual activity during the fertile period. The three primary ovulation symptoms include a rise in basal body temperature, changes in cervical mucus, and changes in cervical position. The seven secondary ovulation symptoms include breast tenderness, mood changes, abdominal discomfort, and increased sex drive. Various protocols and methods available today include the Billings Ovulation Method, the Symptothermal Method, and the Creighton Model. NFP is healthier than contraceptives as it has no physical or hormonal side effects and does not interfere with the natural reproductive process.

Bioethical evaluation of NFP as a means and as an end:

NFP, as a means of regulating conception, is consistent with Catholic moral and ethical teachings that emphasize the natural order of creation. It respects the unity between the husband and wife and promotes mutual responsibility and shared contemplation. NFP can be evaluated positively as an end to both personal and theological understandings of the purpose of sexuality. Couples can use it to develop responsible parenthood and promote moral values.

ERD Paragraphs #: 38, 39, 42, 43, 44, 52 (summary):

Paragraph 38: Every person has the right to make their own medical and reproductive decisions that are consistent with their values, beliefs, and religious affiliations. Health care providers must provide all relevant information on procedures and interventions with respect for the autonomy of their patients.

Paragraph 39: Health care providers must avoid providing or referring their patients to services that are morally and ethically objectionable. Health care providers must uphold Catholic moral and ethical teachings, even if it conflicts with their own personal beliefs.

Paragraph 42: Catholic health care institutions must not condone or participate in any act that deliberately ends human life through abortion, euthanasia, or any other act that violates the sanctity of human life.

Paragraph 43: Catholic health care institutions must provide medical treatments and procedures consistent with Catholic moral and ethical teachings. Medical treatments and procedures must respect the sanctity of human life from fertilization to natural death.

Paragraph 44: Catholic health care institutions must provide ethical guidelines and pastoral support to their employees to ensure compliance with Catholic moral and ethical teachings. Health care providers must not be asked to violate their conscience and must receive the necessary training and resources to respect the dignity of human life.

Paragraph 52: Nurses and health care providers must recognize the importance of respecting life and dignity of every patient from conception to natural death. They must use their profession to promote and defend human dignity, advocating for the vulnerable and marginalized.