Social Implications of In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) on Women in India

Abstract

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a technological innovation enabling infertile women to conceive through medical procedures. However, social inferences of IVF need to be contextualised within gender dynamics, especially in India. Though several studies have examined specific social aspects of IVF none have delineated the combination of determinants as well as implications of IVF for women. The present study assesses various social factors influencing choices for infertility treatments like IVF, and also the implications for women undergoing IVF. For a nuanced understanding of these conditions in the larger social context of India, 41 studies discussing important indices like gender dynamics, health status, power relations and social vulnerabilities of women experiencing IVF have been critically reviewed. Based on the review we contend that social pressures, gender identity, desire for a biological child, fear of marital discord and loss of self-esteem are most important factors determining such decisions.