Catholic Church urged to educate followers on IVF's moral objections

In vitro fertilization (IVF) has been a topic of significant debate, particularly within the Catholic community. The procedure, which allows conception through artificial means, raises ethical and moral concerns according to Catholic teachings. The Church deems IVF morally impermissible, a stance not widely understood among American Catholics.

A Pew Research Center survey from April indicates that 70% of Americans view IVF positively, with 65% of American Catholics sharing this sentiment. Joe Zalot from the National Catholic Bioethics Center explains that IVF involves severing conception from sexual intercourse and can lead to the destruction of human lives at early development stages. "The church teaches that procreation must come through an act of marital intercourse between a husband and wife," Zalot stated.

Data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that out of over 413,000 artificial reproductive technology cycles in 2021, only 112,088 resulted in pregnancy, with 97,128 babies born successfully. Bioethicists note that each successful cycle often involves the loss or suspension of multiple embryos.

Church documents such as "Donum Vitae" and "Dignitas Personae" highlight these ethical concerns while recognizing the suffering of couples unable to conceive naturally. Father Shenan Boquet emphasizes that while children conceived through IVF should be affirmed, it is crucial to approach the topic sensitively within parishes.

Father Boquet notes the importance of opening conversations about IVF's moral implications without overwhelming parishioners with information. "We need to be pastors," he stressed.

Catholic bioethicists suggest alternatives like restorative reproductive medicine (RRM), which focuses on addressing infertility causes through natural family planning methods. Dr. Paul Carpentier advocates for RRM as a cost-effective alternative to IVF.

Despite IVF's acceptance in society, Father Boquet insists on educating people about its moral issues: "Pastors care about their people and they love them...we live in the midst of the community because we are one with them."

Simone Orendain reports for OSV News from Chicago.