Recent headlines have brought into focus in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments as a solution for couples struggling to have children. Some have even framed the issue as consonant with pro-life principles. As is well known, the Church is staunchly pro-life and supports the procreation and education of children. Yet, at the same time, the Church has also consistently taught that IVF treatments are an immoral means to bring forth the immense blessing that is a child.
There are numerous reasons for the Church’s prohibition of IVF. In IVF multiple embryos are created in a laboratory setting. This separation of procreation from the marital act goes against natural law and the proper use of human sexuality. Additionally, the excess embryos are discarded, used for scientific experimentation, or frozen for an indeterminate amount of time. Since life begins at conception this is the destruction, misuse, or the suspension of an innocent human life. Also, the procedure for choosing an embryo for implantation involves selecting the one that is the “best.” This selection process goes against the inherent dignity of all human life by ranking human worth based on biological fitness or preferable traits.
Unfortunately, many Catholics are unaware that this is the Church’s teaching. In fact, many have used this method and have been blessed with children. While the method is immoral, the child born is still a gift and blessing from God. Hence mothers and fathers who have used these means can go to their heavenly Father, asking for forgiveness, and thanking Him that in His generosity He has provided the wonderful blessing that is their child(ren).
