Technology-assisted reproductionIntroductionReproduction is fundamental for the perpetuation of the species and therefore is a characteristic that all species possess. Human reproduction is not usually seen in this context. The extinction of humans is not considered a threat, but the ability to reproduce is a matter of meeting social expectations. Psychologist Dr. Helen Fisher states that society tends to pressure women to feel that motherhood is their only connection to being a woman (Rutter, 1996). Likewise, men are influenced by society and feel they must do their part by "planting the seed" (Rutter, 1996). Fisher's intuition may account for only part of the reason why humans feel the need to reproduce. However, it is clear that the ability to conceive a child is an important issue for most married couples. Unfortunately, complications occur when couples are infertile. Recent developments in reproductive technology have provided alternative methods of reproduction that can greatly increase an infertile couple's chances of conceiving. However, there are ethical and legal issues that accompany the use of these reproductive technologies. It is everyone's responsibility, especially Christians, to educate themselves about the options that reproductive technologies can offer as well as the legal and ethical issues related to their use before taking appropriate action. Background Starting at puberty, the human male produces millions of sperm per day and continues to do so for approximately the next 50 years. On the other hand, the human female is born with approximately one million eggs, which are all she will ever have (Infertility, 1996). The onset of menstruation during adolescence signals the beginning of a cycle in which hormone... middle of paper... births soar with the popularity of fertility drugs." Discovery. http:// detnews.com/ 1997/discover/9702/20/02170076.htm (24 September 1998). Nelson, J.B. (1973): Ethical Perspectives on New Medical Issues. Minneapolis: Augusta Publishing House. . http://www.fertility-net.com/medicines.html (September 23, 1998). Health and Medicine http://www.betterhealth.com/HK/ArticleMain/0,1349,178-496-488,00. .htm. (September 23, 1998).Rutter, VT (1996, March). "Who Stole Fertility?" Psychology Today, pp. 46-49. Cambridge University Press. Youngkin, Dr. (1997) http://www.texmed.org/news_events/radio_spots/ne_may0697_30.htm (September). 24, 1998).