With all the talk about contraception, conception is frequently neglected. This is a topic that may seem self-explanatory, but several difficulties can arise, especially for gay and lesbian couples, along with heterosexual couples who have fertility problems. Luckily, modern technology offers several alternatives to intercourse.
Artificial insemination
Artificial insemination is the easiest alternative to conception via intercourse, and it has been used with animals for centuries. This method simply entails placing sperm into the vagina without intercourse. In humans there are two variations: artificial insemination by the husband (AIH) and artificial insemination by a donor (AID). AIH is used when the husband, boyfriend, etc. has a low sperm count. Many samples of his sperm are combined to produce one with a higher sperm count, which is then placed into the vagina. AID (not the Sexually Transmitted Disease AIDS) is used when the father-to-be is sterile. Some people have tried to use artificial insemination for gender selection, but the success rates are not dramatically higher than the natural probability of 50/50 for having a boy or a girl.
Embryo transfer
Embryo transfer is the exchange of an embryo, or developing egg, from one woman's uterus to another's. It is generally used for two groups. A woman who can conceive, but is prone to miscarriage, can use embryo transfer with a surrogate mother. In this instance, the genetic material is that of the two parents, only the utilized uterus is different. Also, embryo transfer can act as the opposite of artificial insemination for a woman who does not produce viable eggs. The sperm artificially fertilizes another woman's egg, which is then transplanted into the mother's womb
In vitro fertilization
In vitro literally translates to "in glass." In vitro fertilization (IVF) takes place outside of the woman's body and is thus the procedure responsible for “test tube babies.” The resulting embryo is then implanted in the mother's uterus. While anyone can take advantage of this technology, it is especially useful in instances of fallopian tube obstruction, when egg and sperm cannot unite.
GIFT and ZIFT
Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT) is another option. In this scenario, sperm and eggs are both inserted into the fallopian tubes, which allows natural mechanisms to take over after the initial introduction of the reproductive gametes (sex cells). Zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT) is quite similar to GIFT except that sperm and egg unite in a laboratory. The resulting zygote is then introduced to the fallopian tubes to allow for natural implantation.
Conclusion
While assisted reproductive technologies are making conception easier for many couples, it is important to make three notes. First, success rates vary quite a bit, usually due to factors such as older age and/or poor health. Second, these procedures require expert doctors and complicated technology, making them expensive and difficult to access. Finally, some ethical dilemmas may arise from the preceding options and therefore they may not be the right choice for everyone. Adoption is another alternative for people who want children but cannot conceive. The Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology is an invaluable resource, with helpful links, that was instrumental in compiling this information.
© - Reproduced with permission of SexInfo, University of California at Santa Barbara, 2007.