In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a medical procedure that involves fertilizing an egg with sperm outside of the body, in a laboratory setting. It is used to help people who are struggling to conceive due to infertility or other reproductive issues. While IVF is a mainstream treatment option for infertility in many parts of the world, it is still considered a taboo topic in some countries, including India.
There are several reasons why IVF may be considered a taboo topic in India:
- Stigma surrounding infertility: In many cultures, including Indian culture, infertility is often stigmatized and associated with shame. This may discourage people from seeking treatment or discussing their fertility issues openly.
- Lack of awareness: There may be a lack of awareness about fertility treatments and IVF in some parts of India, which may contribute to the taboo surrounding the topic.
- Traditional beliefs: Some traditional beliefs and cultural practices in India may discourage the use of assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF.
- Cost: The cost of IVF treatment can be prohibitively expensive for many people in India, which may discourage some from seeking treatment.
- Legal restrictions: In India, there are legal restrictions on certain aspects of IVF, such as the use of surrogate mothers and egg or sperm donation, which may contribute to the taboo surrounding the topic.
Overall, there are a variety of factors that may contribute to the taboo surrounding IVF in India, including stigma surrounding infertility, lack of awareness, traditional beliefs, cost, and legal restrictions.