Ethical issues in intrauterine diagnosis and therapy

Fetal Ther. 1986;1(1):32-7. doi: 10.1159/000262230.

Abstract

This essay considers ethical problems raised by recent developments in intrauterine diagnosis and therapy. Diagnostic and therapeutic innovations applicable to the previable fetus and to the possibly viable or viable fetus are briefly described. A central ethical issue prior to viability is whether intrauterine therapy for fetal health problems should be attempted or whether selective abortion should be chosen as an alternative. Beyond viability, an important question is the extent to which a pregnant woman is morally obligated to accept risks to her own life or health for the sake of the fetus.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Congenital Abnormalities / diagnosis
  • Congenital Abnormalities / therapy
  • Disclosure
  • Ethics, Medical*
  • Female
  • Fetal Diseases* / diagnosis
  • Fetal Diseases* / therapy
  • Fetal Viability
  • Humans
  • Maternal-Fetal Relations
  • Moral Obligations*
  • Patient Advocacy
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnant Women*
  • Prenatal Diagnosis
  • Risk Assessment