1. Name and explain the levels of human sexual intercourse.
2. Difference between reproduction and procreation.
3. What are the two dimensions of intimacy?
4. Contraception:
o What is it?
o What is the intention of contraception?
o Describe the three types of artificial contraception.
o Risks / Side effects
o Bioethical analysis and unfair dynamics of artificial contraception.
5. Non-Therapeutic sterilization; bioethical analysis
6. Principle of double effect; explain
7. Bioethical analysis of:
o Ectopic pregnancy
o Cancerous reproductive system with pregnancy
8. In Vitro Fertilization(IVF):
o Process
o Bioethical analysis of IVF
9. Bioethical analysis of “to have a child”
- Human sexual intercourse can be broadly categorized into four levels:
a) Level 1: Non-penetrative sexual activity – This includes activities that do not involve penetration, such as kissing, touching, and oral sex. These activities can be pleasurable and intimate but do not involve vaginal, anal, or oral penetration.
b) Level 2: Penetrative sexual activity without ejaculation – This refers to sexual intercourse that involves penetration but does not result in ejaculation. It can include activities like vaginal or anal intercourse without the release of semen.
c) Level 3: Penetrative sexual activity with ejaculation – This level involves sexual intercourse that includes penetration and ejaculation. It can lead to pregnancy if contraception is not used.
d) Level 4: Reproductive sexual activity – This level of sexual intercourse involves penetration, ejaculation, and the potential for conception. It refers to sexual activity aimed at reproduction, with the intention of conceiving a child.
- Reproduction and procreation are related but distinct concepts:
Reproduction refers to the biological process by which new individuals of the same species are produced. It involves the union of genetic material from two parents to create offspring. Reproduction can occur sexually, with the combination of genetic material from both a male and a female, or asexually, where a single organism can produce offspring without the need for genetic exchange.
Procreation, on the other hand, is the conscious and intentional act of conceiving and bringing forth offspring. It involves the deliberate decision and desire to have a child or children. Procreation encompasses not only the biological process of reproduction but also the social, emotional, and ethical aspects associated with raising children.
- The two dimensions of intimacy are:
a) Emotional Intimacy: Emotional intimacy refers to the deep connection and closeness that exists between individuals on an emotional level. It involves sharing one’s thoughts, feelings, desires, and vulnerabilities with another person, and feeling understood, supported, and accepted by them. Emotional intimacy fosters trust, empathy, and a sense of security within a relationship.
b) Physical Intimacy: Physical intimacy encompasses the physical expression of affection and desire between individuals. It includes activities such as hugging, kissing, holding hands, cuddling, and sexual interaction. Physical intimacy can enhance emotional connection and strengthen the bond between partners.
Both emotional and physical intimacy are important components of a healthy and fulfilling relationship, and they often complement each other.
- Contraception refers to the deliberate use of various methods, techniques, or devices to prevent pregnancy or reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Its primary intention is to allow individuals or couples to have control over their reproductive choices and sexual health.
The three types of artificial contraception are:
a) Barrier methods: These methods create a physical barrier between the sperm and the egg, preventing fertilization. Examples include condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, and contraceptive sponges.
b) Hormonal methods: Hormonal contraception involves the use of synthetic hormones (such as birth control pills, patches, injections, or implants) to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, or inhibit the implantation of a fertilized egg. These methods alter hormonal balance to prevent pregnancy.
c) Intrauterine devices (IUDs): IUDs are small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus to prevent fertilization and implantation. They can be hormonal (releasing progestin) or non-hormonal (copper IUDs).
Risks and side effects of contraception can vary depending on the specific method used. Some common risks and side effects include hormonal changes, menstrual irregularities, weight gain, mood changes, increased risk of blood clots, allergic reactions, and potential failure rates if not used correctly.
Bioethical analysis of artificial contraception involves considering various ethical perspectives, including religious, cultural, and individual beliefs. Some arguments against artificial contraception may include concerns about interfering with natural processes, potential health risks, moral objections based on religious or cultural beliefs, or concerns about the societal impact of widespread contraceptive use. On the other hand, arguments in favor of contraception often emphasize the importance of reproductive autonomy, preventing unintended pregnancies, and promoting individual and public health.
- Non-therapeutic sterilization refers to the surgical or medical procedures aimed at permanently or semi-permanently preventing an individual from reproducing without any therapeutic or medical necessity. It typically involves procedures like tubal ligation (female sterilization) or vasectomy (male sterilization).
The bioethical analysis of non-therapeutic sterilization is complex and involves considerations of individual autonomy, the potential for regret or change of circumstances, and the societal implications. Some arguments in favor of non-therapeutic sterilization include the right to control one’s own fertility, the prevention of unwanted pregnancies, and personal or medical reasons that justify the decision. However, concerns may arise regarding the irreversible nature of the procedure, potential psychological impacts, and ethical implications related to the long-term consequences and societal effects.
- The principle of double effect is an ethical principle used to evaluate actions that may have both good and bad consequences. According to this principle, an action that is morally good and intended for a good purpose may still be permissible if it has foreseen bad consequences as long as certain conditions are met:
a) The action itself must be morally good or neutral.
b) The intention behind the action must be the achievement of the morally good outcome, with the bad consequence being foreseen but not intended.
c) The good outcome must outweigh the bad consequence.
d) There should be no alternative course of action that could achieve the good outcome without the bad consequence.
The principle of double effect is often invoked in medical ethics, particularly in cases where certain treatments or interventions may have unintended but foreseeable negative consequences. It helps to determine whether the overall action is ethically justified when there is a conflict between the desired outcome and potential harm.
- Bioethical analysis of:
a) Ectopic pregnancy: An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants and grows outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tube. This condition is not viable and poses serious risks to the pregnant person’s health. From a bioethical perspective, the primary concern is the preservation of the pregnant person’s life and health. The decision to intervene medically or surgically to end the ectopic pregnancy is often guided by the principles of beneficence (acting in the best interest of the pregnant person) and autonomy (respecting the pregnant person’s wishes and choices). Ethical considerations also involve balancing the value of fetal life with the potential harm and risks posed to the pregnant person.
b) Cancerous reproductive system with pregnancy: When a pregnant person is diagnosed with cancer affecting the reproductive system, complex ethical considerations arise. The bioethical analysis involves balancing the potential risks and benefits of cancer treatment for the pregnant person’s health while considering the potential harm to the developing fetus. The principles of beneficence, autonomy, and justice play a role in determining the appropriate course of action. Medical professionals, in consultation with the patient, must carefully evaluate the available treatment options, taking into account the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer, the gestational age of the fetus, the potential impact of treatment on the fetus, and the long-term health prospects for the pregnant person.
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technology that involves the fertilization of an egg with sperm outside the body (in vitro) in a laboratory setting. The general process of IVF involves the following steps:
a) Ovarian stimulation: The patient receives hormonal medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs.
b) Egg retrieval: The mature eggs are surgically retrieved from the ovaries using ultrasound-guided needle aspiration.
c) Sperm collection: The male partner provides a semen sample, which is processed to separate the sperm from other components.
d) Fertilization: The retrieved eggs and prepared sperm are combined in a laboratory dish for fertilization. If successful, the fertilized eggs develop into embryos.
e) Embryo transfer: The resulting embryos are transferred into the uterus of the intended mother or a gestational carrier, with the aim of achieving a successful pregnancy.
The bioethical analysis of IVF involves considerations of reproductive autonomy, the status of the embryo, the potential risks and benefits of the procedure, and the fair allocation of resources and access to fertility treatments. Ethical concerns may include the disposition of surplus embryos, the potential for multiple pregnancies and associated health risks, the physical and emotional burden on the individuals undergoing IVF, and the broader societal implications of assisted reproductive technologies.
- The bioethical analysis of “to have a child” encompasses various considerations:
a) Reproductive autonomy: Individuals have the right to make decisions regarding their reproductive choices, including the desire to have a child.
b) Parental responsibilities and obligations: Having a child carries responsibilities and obligations towards the well-being and upbringing of the child. Ethical analysis involves assessing the capacity and willingness of individuals or couples to fulfill these responsibilities.
c) Societal impact: The decision to have a child has broader implications for society, such as population growth, resource allocation, and environmental sustainability.
d) Access and equity: Bioethical analysis should consider issues of access to reproductive healthcare, including fertility treatments and support for individuals or couples who may face challenges in conceiving or carrying a pregnancy to term.
e) Emotional and psychological considerations: The decision to have a child involves emotional and psychological aspects, including the desire for companionship, fulfillment, and the emotional bonds between parents and children.
Overall, the bioethical analysis of “to have a child” requires balancing individual desires, societal implications, and ethical considerations related to the well-being of the potential child and the individuals involved.