Abstract

KIE: The death of a couple who had undergone in vitro fertilization, leaving behind two frozen embryos, is examined with regard to the dilemmas that such "orphan" embryos raise. Issues addressed include the rights of embryos and fetuses, moral obligations owed them, and the value of life. The social impact of decisions regarding the costs, risks, and benefits of collecting, freezing, and either using or discarding the embryos is discussed. The possibility of offering such embryos to other infertile women is also considered. It is concluded that, whether or not one believes that the embryo has moral rights, frozen embryos ought to be preserved until they can be implanted or until they are no longer able to survive.