A Catholic OB-GYN has pioneered a new approach to treating infertility, offering an alternative to in vitro fertilization (IVF). This innovative method, known as Natural Procreative Technology (NaProTechnology), focuses on addressing the root causes of infertility rather than directly resorting to assisted reproductive technology. The clinic, which adheres to Catholic ethics, has gained significant popularity, resulting in a six-month waiting period. Unlike IVF, NaProTechnology takes a problem-based approach, providing a different path for those seeking to conceive.
about 2 months ago
Dr. Christopher Stroud, once an OB-GYN who prescribed birth control and referred patients for IVF, experienced a profound change after a confessional experience 1. This led him to establish a life-affirming fertility clinic centered around Natural Procreative Technology (NaProTechnology) 1. Stroud's clinic has become incredibly popular, boasting a six-month waiting list 1.
NaProTechnology distinguishes itself by treating infertility as a symptom of underlying health issues rather than a diagnosis in itself 1. This approach aligns with Catholic ethics by avoiding the creation and potential destruction of embryos, a common concern with IVF 1. Teresa Hilgers, an OB-GYN at the St. Paul VI Institute, notes that NaProTechnology can restore a couple's natural fertility, potentially eliminating the need for ongoing medical intervention 1.
The Catholic Church opposes IVF because it separates the procreative and unitive aspects of sexual intercourse within marriage 1. The Church emphasizes that children are gifts, not rights, and expresses concern that IVF can lead to embryos being treated as property 1. The Catechism of the Catholic Church deems IVF "morally unacceptable" due to the domination of technology over human life and the separation of the marriage act from procreation 1.
NaProTechnology offers a medically sound and ethically consistent alternative to IVF for Catholic couples struggling with infertility 1. Hilgers argues that IVF is not always good medicine, citing lower success rates and potential risks such as higher complication rates during pregnancy and increased risk of birth defects 1. Stroud encourages couples to explore the underlying causes of their infertility, regardless of the outcome 1. He stresses that couples do not have to compromise their faith to address fertility issues 1.
The Church values procreation; how does it define licit means?
The Catholic Church opposes in vitro fertilization (IVF) because it separates procreation from the conjugal act and often involves the destruction of embryos . However, the Church supports techniques that assist natural fertilization without replacing the conjugal act .
The Church recognizes the suffering and disappointment of couples struggling with infertility and encourages legitimate research to alleviate this problem . The goal is to find solutions that respect the dignity of the human person and the sanctity of marriage .