“Test Tube Babies”

Essential Question: What is a “test tube baby”*? How does IVF technology align with and shape our cultural values?

Standards:

• ETS2B: Influence of Science, Engineering & Technology on Society & the Natural World

• LS3A: Inheritance of Traits

Photo: surrogate.com

Image: IRMS Reproductive Medicine

While In Vitro Fertilization is now commonplace and generally an accepted practice, when it was first being researched, tested and utilized in the 1970s and 80s, the practice caused a large uproar inside and out of the scientific community. Cultural norms at the time influenced the science and engineering of IVF and conversely, subsequent mainstreaming of IVF has shaped societal beliefs about reproduction. Strengthen students’ understanding of fertilization and pregnancy by comparing the traditional process to the process of IVF. Then, making sure to highlight the prevalence (1-2% of all births) and safety of IVF, discuss the ethical debate and implications of the technology on society. Ask students to consider who might benefit from the furthering of IVF and other fertility treatments. Who might oppose it and on what grounds? Students will likely lead the discussion to medical and social challenges faced by nontraditional families (eg. single parents, gay couples, older parents). Students may also share religious beliefs around procreation and families. Some may be familiar with controversies around the fate of unused embryos for research or disposal. 

*Note: I use the term “test tube baby” because it is more familiar/accessible to students than terms like IVF. It also incites inquiry and provides an opportunity to teach by dispelling misconceptions.