Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs)

The term assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) refers to a range of techniques that are used to assist in the process of achieving a pregnancy. These methods and techniques may also be referred to as infertility treatment or fertility treatment.

LGBTQ individuals and couples typically lack a partner of a different sex with whom they can [Page 98]conceive a child (a situation that is sometimes referred to as “social infertility”). ARTs that use donated sperm, eggs, and embryos provide LGBTQ individuals and couples, or three or more individuals, the opportunity to achieve pregnancy and to raise a child from birth.

This entry first examines exactly what ARTs are, who uses them, and why. The various risks associated with ARTS are then addressed, followed by a brief summary of ...