Diagnostic testing and screening in reproduction. Opinion and attitudes toward current and future possibillities

Promotie: mw. L. Kooij, 16.15 uur, Academiegebouw, Broerstraat 5, Groningen
Proefschrift: Diagnostic testing and screening in reproduction. Opinion and attitudes toward current and future possibillities
Promotor(s): prof.dr. P.P. van den Berg, prof.dr. M.J. Heineman
Faculteit: Medische Wetenschappen
Contact: via de persvoorlichters van het UMCG, tel. 050-361 2200, e-mail: voorlichting bvl.umcg.nl

Diagnostic testing and screening in reproduction. Opinion and attitudes toward current and future possibillities

Diagnostics for genetic disorders can be carried out more and more accurately and on an ever larger scale. Women feel positive about screening by means of DNA diagnostics and ultra-sound scanning during pregnancy. It is difficult for them to realize the implications, however. The right to self-determination is considered essential: the pregnant woman herself should be the one who determines which testing she wants to have conducted. Restrictions are considered undesirable.

In choosing a treatment that involves IVF and vitrification of egg cells, women also attach great importance to the right to self-determination. Even a low success rate is considered sufficient reason for undergoing fertility treatment.

Medical-technological developments offer (potentially) pregnant women and their partners various options, but also confront them with ever more complex choices. Providing information is essential in order to make a deliberate choice. The role of general practitioners and midwives in this matter will become more and more important.