The Chinese Ministry of Health has issued a directive prohibiting the donation and provision of human eggs for commercial purposes while tightening control over sperm banks to limit the commercial use of assisted reproductive technology.
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Sperm Injection into the Uterus (Image: misodamclinic) |
Last weekend, the Chinese Ministry of Health issued a directive that restricts the use of sperm from donors and prohibits the provision of sperm to unauthorized medical units. According to the directive, the semen from a single donor can be provided to no more than 5 women for in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer, and no more than 8 women for artificial insemination (AI). The directive also mandates that sperm banks must record specific information regarding the use of sperm samples.
The directive strictly prohibits the donation and provision of eggs for commercial purposes. It emphasizes that unauthorized facilities are not allowed to use egg donation technology and that egg donors must be women whose eggs are collected during their reception of assisted reproductive technology.
Since March 31, 2006, 64 medical facilities in China have been licensed to provide services related to assisted reproductive technology, and 7 facilities have been established as sperm banks. The directive from the Ministry of Health requires facilities that have provided reproductive support services to cease operations until they receive government approval. Additionally, technical medical staff at these facilities must participate in training programs to obtain professional certification.
Minh Thương
