IVF test for deformities raises legal concerns

MANY Irish women having babies by IVF are not being told they can have a test to identify if the embryo has a fatal deformity, according to a European-wide report.

IVF test for deformities  raises legal concerns

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis is banned in Ireland but doctors in IVF clinics say they are not sure it is legal to give information about the service to their patients and do not do so for fear of prosecution.

The study found several hundred couples a year have the test carried out abroad, mainly in Belgium, usually after researching clinics on the internet. But since public funding was withdrawn two years ago, only those who can afford to travel and pay for it are able to have the test. It is carried out on a cell taken from the embryo three days after the egg is fertilised and before it is implanted in the womb.

Already a subscriber? Sign in

You have reached your article limit.

Unlimited access. Half the price.

Annual €120 €60

Best value

Monthly €10€5 / month

More in this section

Revoiced

Newsletter

Sign up to the best reads of the week from irishexaminer.com selected just for you.

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited