Attitudes of the Australian Public to Current and Emerging Assisted Reproductive Technologies

Abstract

Aims. Infertility is a global public health issue. Scientific advancements and demand for alternative pathways to parenthood have resulted in emerging reproductive technologies. The present research aimed to clarify how demographic and fertility factors influence attitudes toward current and emerging assisted reproductive technologies (ART) in Australia. Methods. 265 participants aged 16-87 years completed an online questionnaire exploring attitudes toward current and emerging ARTs between April and August 2019. Acceptability of the technologies and their contextual use were analysed alongside demographic (including gender, age, education), and fertility, factors. Results. Medically necessary procedures typically attracted higher acceptability than social use. Suggested age requirements for ART varied from current practice guidelines. Utilising reproductive techniques in the case of infertility ranked higher (64%) than choosing to adopt (10%) or foster (3.4%) a child. Females and older participants more strongly supported mandatory counselling. Commercial and altruistic surrogacy attracted support for legalisation. Conclusions. Demographic factors have been demonstrated to relate to the acceptability of various ART. Genetic lineage remains important when selecting alternate pathways to parenthood. Australians are generally accepting of government funding for ARTs, with the exception of sex selection and commercial surrogacy.