Bioethical analysis (moral subjectivism) from the perception of clinicians on the situation of embryos subjected to in vitro fertilization. Quito-Ecuador

Authors

  • Víctor Hugo Almeida Arteaga Facultad Eclesiástica de Ciencias Filosóficas, Teológica. Pontificia Universidad Católica de Ecuador
  • Anderson Díaz-Pérez Facultad Eclesiástica de Ciencias Filosóficas, Teológica. Pontificia Universidad Católica de Ecuador

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to analyze the perceptions and practices of clinicians in relation to the management of embryos subjected to in vitro fertilization techniques. Methodology is Qualitative (subjectivist and phenomenological). A total of 15 semi-structured interviews were conducted using saturation sampling for clinical personnel who have participated in vitro fertilization procedures. The data is analyzed with the Atlas Ti 8.0® program. Results: Clinicians consider the embryo as a Human being or future human being, in addition, deserving of respect and consideration even proposing improvements in the processes of handling and storage. Conclusion. Embryos are not considered as entities susceptible of damage from not only technical but ethical arguments. From the principialist current, the need to promote attitudes of responsibility and prudence to avoid dogmatism (moral objectivism) is described, proposing a deliberative position.

Keywords:

embryo, in vitro fertilization, bioethics, perceptions, practices, dignity, manipulation, principles, surplus embryos, autonomy