Every September 18 we celebrate World Medical Ethics Day, a date to remember the principles that guide medicine: dignity, confidentiality, autonomy, equity, beneficence, and non-maleficence.
In a world of rapid scientific advances, where clinical decisions involve data, emotions, life plans, and possible futures, medical ethics is more important than ever.
In assisted reproduction, these values are essential: technology opens doors to having a baby but also demands respect, empathy, and responsibility for the physical, emotional, legal, and social implications.
At Ingenes, this ethical commitment is the foundation of everything we do.
What is medical ethics and why does it matter in fertility?
Medical ethics studies the moral principles that govern medical practice. It’s not just about following rules but acting with integrity, justice, and humanity in every encounter with those seeking to start a family.
World Medical Ethics Day reminds us that behind every technique and every result, medicine is, above all, a human act.
The four classic principles of bioethics are:
- Autonomy: Respecting each person’s informed decisions.
- Beneficence: Always seeking the greatest benefit for the patient.
- Non-maleficence: Avoiding harm, whether by action or omission.
- Justice: Ensuring equitable access to medical services.
These principles gain complexity and relevance in areas such as genetics, fertility, and assisted reproduction.
How are ethical decisions made in assisted reproduction?
Reproductive medicine goes beyond clinical interventions: it involves supporting individuals and couples through years of hope, grief, difficult diagnoses, failed treatments, and intense emotions.
Here, ethics is not optional: it is essential.
At Ingenes, our ethical commitment is reflected in four pillars of care:
1. Clear, honest, and personalized diagnoses
An incomplete diagnosis can lead to frustration and unnecessary procedures. At Ingenes we prioritize a comprehensive evaluation from the first consultation, combining advanced technology and a multidisciplinary team.
Acting ethically means avoiding false expectations and not performing invasive interventions without medical justification.
2. Respect for your autonomy
The decision to seek fertility support is very personal. Every plan begins with an empathetic conversation where you express your desires, doubts, and boundaries.
Respecting your autonomy means explaining each option, risks, real success probabilities, and the physical and emotional impact. Informed consent is part of care, not just a form to sign.
3. Physical and emotional safety
We not only want to help you have a baby but also accompany you with care and respect.
Fertility processes can be emotionally intense. That’s why all our programs include professional psychological support, with tools to cope with uncertainty, stress, and hope. We also meet international biosecurity standards (ISO 9001) to protect your health and embryonic integrity.
4. Justice and equity: the right to form a family
In Latin America and the U.S., access to fertility services can be limited by economic, social, or geographic factors. At Ingenes we work so everyone has the opportunity to fulfill their dream, regardless of their background.
With 19 locations, we offer programs for single individuals, same-sex couples, women over 35, patients with chronic diseases, or complex cases. Our ethical vision excludes no one.
What innovations reflect ethical science in fertility?
Medical ethics guide the development and use of advanced technologies such as:
- Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT-A and PGT-M)
To reduce the risk of genetic diseases and select chromosomally healthy embryos. - IVF MORE® (Magnetic Ovarian Restoration)
Patented technique to improve egg quality in women with low ovarian reserve or previous failed attempts. - Gamete and embryo bank
Under strict ethical protocols of anonymity, selection, and monitoring.
These tools are used respecting human dignity, informed consent, genetic confidentiality, and with a reproductive, not experimental, purpose.
How does the ethics team maintain its commitment?
An ethical institute is built with committed professionals. At Ingenes, doctors, biologists, embryologists, geneticists, psychologists, and nurses receive ongoing training in bioethics, empathetic communication, and diversity.
Each case is reviewed in clinical sessions, making decisions from a scientific, respectful, and close approach. There are no standard solutions: every person deserves a personalized plan.
When is it necessary to say “no”?
Ethics also requires the courage to reject procedures when conditions are not adequate: postponing ovarian stimulation due to health risk, delaying transfer if the endometrium is not receptive, or recommending techniques with better success rates.
At Ingenes, the desire to have a baby never outweighs medical responsibility. We guide you with transparency, sensitivity, and commitment.
Learn more about how reproductive professionals support life from the very beginning at International Day of Obstetrics: Celebrating Those Who Support Life from the Very Beginning and discover the essential work of caregivers at National Nurses Day: The Human Heart of Reproductive Medicine.
Frequently Asked Questions about Medical Ethics in Assisted Reproduction
1. What ethical challenges does preimplantation genetic testing bring?
PGT-A and PGT-M raise dilemmas about embryo selection, genetic privacy, and possible discrimination. Ethically, it is key to provide clear counseling on limitations, false positives, and long-term consequences.
Your autonomy is respected by explaining how your genetic data is stored, who can access it, and what it might mean for your future family. Confidentiality and informed consent are non-negotiable.
2. How does informed consent protect patients?
Informed consent ensures you understand the risks, benefits, and alternatives of each procedure. It is a dialogue, not a formality: you must have time to ask questions and reflect.
This process reinforces autonomy, builds trust, and reduces anxiety. It prevents coercive practices and ensures the treatment aligns with your values and life plans.
3. Can cost affect the ethics of treatment?
Economic barriers create inequalities in access. Ethically, clinics should offer transparent pricing, flexible payment plans, and support programs to minimize gaps.
Justice demands that economic factors do not exclude those who dream of becoming parents. At Ingenes we design tailored programs: single parents, same-sex couples, or those with limited resources deserve the same opportunities.
4. What role does emotional support play in fertility ethics?
Emotional well-being is part of medical ethics. Fertility treatments can trigger stress, grief, and fear. Addressing these emotions is as important as the clinical intervention.
Psychological support and support groups foster resilience and informed decision-making. It is an act of beneficence: caring for the whole person.
Sources consulted
- Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2019). Principles of Biomedical Ethics (8th ed.). Oxford University Press.
- National Library of Medicine. (2022). Medical Ethics. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/medicalethics.html
- Delgado, J. M. (2021). Ethical Issues in Reproductive Medicine. Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics, 38(3), 527–536. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-020-02063-5
- World Health Organization. (2020). WHO recommendations on Science and Ethics in Genomics and Assisted Reproduction. https://www.who.int/publications
We accompany you on this journey with respect and dedication. If you are considering fertility treatment, do not hesitate to consult an assisted reproduction specialist for personalized guidance.