Has clinical practice been changed by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990?

Abstract

The birth in 1978 of the first baby to be conceived through in vitro fertilization caused both wonder and controversy. Concerns that this technology would be abused led the Government of the United Kingdom to appoint a Committee of Enquiry into human fertilization and embryology, which led to the publication in 1984 of what has become known as the Warnock Report. This made recommendations on the creation of human embryos in vitro, the storage of human eggs, sperm and embryos, and research on human embryos. This report led eventually to the passing by Parliament of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 and the creation of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, which since 1991 has licensed and regulated all centres and practitioners of assisted reproductive technology. The effects of these regulations are considered in this article. Clinical practice has been affected by the Act, but it has generally led to higher standards of clinical and laboratory practice, improved patient information and care, and improved ethical standards.