Opinion of obstetricians and gynaecologists on ethical issues in the practice of in-vitro fertilisation and embryo transfer in Nigeria.

The objective of this study was to bring ethical issues in the practice of in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) in Nigeria to the fore, to determine and articulate the views of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists on treatment modalities and to drive regulation of this specialised field. A plenary session was organised by The Bridge Clinic at the 2010 Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON) annual general meeting. Participants self-administered a 33-point questionnaire on their views on ethical issues in IVF. The results buttress the conclusions of an earlier publication, clearly indicating that even amongst specialised medical professionals; there are varying views which really cannot be challenged as being either right or wrong as they represent the individuals' position and his culture. Within the context of our society, ethics and morality especially as they affect patient care can and must be hinged on a code or framework which should be developed, implemented and its implementation monitored by a legally bound regulatory body for the protection of the rights and safety of our patients, their unborn children and for the integrity of our health care systems.

Stakeholders' views on ethical issues in the practice of in-vitro fertilisation and embryo transfer in Nigeria.

The provision of IVF for the specialized treatment of infertility has grown very rapidly in Nigeria in recent times, especially within the private sector. The objective of this study was to document the views of key stakeholders regarding salient ethical issues relating to the practice of in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) in Nigeria. A think-tank session was convened with participants drawn from different backgrounds and disciplines to deliberate on ethical issues in IVF. Ten key issues were discussed at this inaugural session. It was unanimously agreed that there are no right or wrong answers when considering the ethics and morality of IVF as these are principally dependent on choice and circumstances. However within the legal and socio-cultural dictates of the Nigerian society, right and wrong may be clearly determined on some issues. With the expansion of the IVF industry and technology in Nigeria, the need to address related ethical issues have become paramount. The forum recommended that it is important that regulatory guidelines are put in place to regulate the practice of IVF in Nigeria and to protect patients' rights and safety.