While a bill (PL) in the Chamber of Deputies in Brazil can hinder access to assisted reproduction, in the United Kingdom the opposite occurs. This Monday, the 6th, Government The British changed the time limit for freezing embryos, sperm and eggs from 10 to 55 years. The change was driven by an increase in late parenting trends. The goal is to reduce the pressure on individuals who opt for a cold to start treatment too soon.
“People across the UK are starting families later in life and it is common for them to choose to freeze their eggs, sperm and embryos in order to preserve fertility. There are many reasons for this, such as not being ready or not being able to start a family or having a health problem. James Bethel, the health minister responsible for the innovation, told reporters Guardian.
Under the current rules, only those who have proven to be prematurely infertile are allowed to have storage for such a long period. The change provides for the extension of this rule to all persons. Every ten years, individuals or couples who freeze eggs, sperm or embryos will be asked whether they want to keep or leave them for a maximum of 55 years.
This change was made possible by the development of a new freezing technique called vitrification, which allows the storage of gametes and embryos without risking their integrity. Health officials and experts supported the decision. Julia Chen, chair of the Human Fertilization Authority and Embryology, said, “We are working on increasing the storage limits for frozen eggs, sperm and embryos, aligning legislation with advances in science, changing modern society, and supporting the government’s support for individuals’ reproductive choices.” Plans welcome.” , which regulates fertility practices and clinics.
To take effect, the amendment would require a change in law. However, this is not expected to happen yet.
