The Dobbs decision: A Statement from Embryo Connections

The impact of the SCOTUS Dobbs decision overturning Roe v Wade is far reaching and yet to be understood, on reproductive rights and so many other areas of personal freedom. 

The long-term impact to fertility treatment is yet to be known.  While the landscape is unchartered and changing, preliminary research by the legal advisor to The American Society of Reproductive Medicine (“ASRM”) suggests that “no change in reproductive practice is necessary at this time.”  The language of the trigger laws in the thirteen states, while defining life at fertilization, identifies in all statutes a state of pregnancy or in utero, thereby excluding embryos created and frozen in vitro. While a very limited sigh of relief, it means that, at least for now, one can continue the path of assisted reproduction regardless of jurisdiction in the United States.

This nuance is both tenuous and far from comprehensive; It has yet to be tested in court and does not cover choices necessary during pregnancy created by assisted reproduction.  ASRM has vowed to act in every state and at a national level, to support the fundamental and essential right of every person to maintain reproductive freedom, and to ensure every person has access and options to build the family they desire. Embryo Connections will support ASRM’s mission to ensure that individuals are free to make their own decisions about their family building.

As you consider your path forward, rest assured that we will continue to empower you to make the decisions that are right for you and your family.  We will be here to ensure that embryo donation remains a viable, welcoming option for those with remaining embryos, and for families and individuals hoping against hope to have children of their own to love.