Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Spring 2017
Source
IJFAB: International Journal of Feminist Approaches to Bioethics
Volume
10
Issue
1
First Page
78
Last Page
102
URL with Digital Object Identifier
https://doi.org/10.3138/ijfab.10.1.78
Abstract
Debate has raged in Canada recently over whether in vitro fertilization (IVF) should be funded through public health insurance. Such a move would require that the provinces classify IVF as a medically necessary service. In this paper, I defend the position I have taken publicly—especially in Ontario, my own province—that IVF is not medically necessary. I contend that, by funding IVF on grounds of medical necessity, governments like Ontario's violate their commitments to equality and fairness, and cause harm. They do the last by suggesting that the lives of people who forgo procreation, and perhaps have children in other ways (e.g., through adoption), will be stunted.
