Elements of an Orthodox reflection on Medically Assisted Reproduction

This article by Dr Dominique Beaufils, a physician, offers an Orthodox theological reflection on medically assisted reproduction (MAR), particularly on in vitro fertilization (IVF). Taking both a medical and spiritual approach, the author examines the various MAR techniques in the light of the Orthodox faith, distinguishing between those that may be tolerated through economy and those that are absolutely incompatible with this faith. The central idea is that human life begins at fertilization and possesses an inalienable dignity, which leads to the rejection of any technique involving supernumerary embryos, multiple implantations, preimplantation genetic diagnosis, or the use of donors outside the couple. The theological contribution of the article lies in the articulation between the Orthodox conception of marriage as a Trinitarian union, the notion of divine economy, and the rejection of a "right to a child" that would instrumentalize human life, while acknowledging human weakness in the face of the trial of infertility.