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Sperm procurement and analysis in Jewish law
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|March 15, 1978
Summary
Most rabbis permit husbands to provide semen samples for fertility testing and insemination. Preferred methods exclude masturbation, favoring coitus interruptus or condom use for sperm retrieval.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Jewish Law (Halakha)
- Medical Ethics
Background:
- Barren marriages prompt discussions on male fertility testing within rabbinic literature.
- Determining permissible methods for sperm sample procurement is a key concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore rabbinic perspectives on obtaining husband's semen for fertility analysis.
- To identify preferred and discouraged methods for sperm sample collection.
Main Methods:
- Review of rabbinic responsa and legal discussions concerning male fertility testing.
- Analysis of differing opinions on sperm procurement techniques.
Main Results:
- Most rabbinic authorities permit semen sample collection for analysis and insemination.
- Masturbation is generally discouraged; coitus interruptus and condom use are preferred methods.
Conclusions:
- While generally permissible, specific methods for sperm retrieval require careful consideration.
- Individual cases necessitate consultation with rabbinic authorities, informed by medical and situational factors.