Social aspects of the new assisted reproduction technologies: Attitudes of Israeli gynecologists

Aim: To evaluate attitudes of gynecologists as to the social aspects of assisted reproduction technologies. Methods: The survey was sent electronically to 600 gynecologists covering their opinions on impact of reproductive technologies, the role of gynecologists in reshaping social reality, their definition of family, concern for the unborn child, accessibility to the new technologies, and potential partners in the decision-making process. Results: One hundred fifty-five gynecologists completed the questionnaire. The majority agreed that the new reproduction technologies have major social consequences (90.3%); that gynecologists, by putting these technologies to use, play a major role in changing social reality; and that the interests of the unborn child should be taken into consideration (84.5%). More than half included single parents and same-sex couples in the definition of a "family" and believed that fertility treatments should be available to everyone. As to sharing responsibility, 65.2% (n = 101) felt the gynecologist should not be the sole decision-maker regarding the necessity of treatment; among them, 49.7% preferred that social workers or psychologists be involved - rather than jurists. Conclusions: The gynecologists in the present survey seemed to be well aware of the importance of the social revolution initiated by the development of assisted reproduction technologies. While they accepted a broader definition of the family, they have not lost sight of the rights of the unborn child and as such, the need for related professionals to take a greater part in the decision-making process. These findings have important implications for educational programs in the health care professions and for future legislation regarding public accessibility to these procedures.