Concerns Associated with Uterus Transplantation in Japan

Keio J Med. 2021 Sep 25;70(3):68-71. doi: 10.2302/kjm.2020-0014-LE. Epub 2020 Nov 7.

Abstract

Uterus transplantation (UTx) has seen increasing global adoption as an alternative for women with uterine factor infertility to achieve pregnancy. However, several medical, ethical, and social issues need to be addressed before UTx can be applied clinically. Since 2009, Japan has amassed a large database of basic research on UTx in non-human primates, but clinical application has not been realized because of conservative attitudes and prudent concerns. Nonetheless, UTx may be viable in Japan after comprehensive resolution of the concerns associated with this medical technology.

Keywords: Japan; quality of life; surrogacy; uterine factor infertility; uterus transplantation.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Female
  • Infertility, Female*
  • Japan
  • Organ Transplantation*
  • Pregnancy
  • Primates
  • Uterus / transplantation