Broad support for regulating the clinical implementation of future reproductive techniques

Area of Science:

• Reproductive medicine and bioethics.
• Stem cell applications in fertility.

Background:

• Stem cell-based fertility treatments, creating gametes from stem cells, are nearing clinical application.
• Debate exists on regulating novel techniques to balance patient benefit with safety.
• Potential impacts extend to current and future generations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the need for regulation of stem cell-based fertility treatments.
• To gauge opinions of gynaecologists, infertile patients, and the general public on regulation.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional survey conducted in the Netherlands (winter 2015-2016).
• Questionnaire distributed to gynaecologists (n=179), infertile patients (n=348), and the general public (n=1250).
• Assessed views on regulating nine potential negative consequences and preferred regulatory bodies.

Main Results:

• High support (>85%) for regulation across all groups for at least one consequence.
• Consensus on regulating serious health risks and embryo disposal.
• Gynaecologists and the public favored regulating success rates and naturalness, unlike patients.
• A national bioethics committee was the preferred regulatory body.

Conclusions:

• Broad support exists for regulating stem cell fertility treatments.
• A national bioethics committee, with diverse advisors, is recommended for oversight.
• Further examination is needed for regulation applicability to other medical fields.