ASRM provides testimony to Senate Judiciary Committee on threats facing IVF
For Immediate Release
Washington, DC – In testimony delivered today to the Senate Judiciary Committee, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) shared with the Committee the dangers to reproductive medicine nearly two years after the Dobbs decision.
In its statement, ASRM said:
“The Alabama Supreme Court’s opinion in LePage undermines critical reproductive health care. Treating frozen embryos as legal persons restricts access to IVF and undermines the rights of people in this country to make decisions about family building, including what to do with frozen embryos created via IVF. Treating embryos as legal children has many serious practical implications for patients and providers. It means that patients could face significantly increased costs and additional unnecessary or risky procedures. For providers, this legal standard could be leveraged to force them to perform embryo transfers where the embryos have a low probability of implanting or leading to a live birth. Patients would then have to suffer the physical and emotional anguish of facing a pregnancy that would never lead to a living child. ASRM’s concern is that the Alabama Supreme Court’s ruling could lead to other states following suit, meaning that fewer people will be able to access the full range of care they want and need, including if, when, and how to have children.”
“We thank Chairman Durbin (D-IL) for shining a light on the ways in which judicial decisions are undermining reproductive health care, particularly in the wake of the recent Alabama Supreme Court decision that threatens access to fertility treatments,” said Sarah Bogdan, ASRM’s Director of Government Affairs. “This hearing couldn’t come at a more critical moment. All around us, access to reproductive medical services is coming under attack. But Congress can help. Hopeful parents across the nation need the Senate and House to pass legislation ensuring fertility treatment remains available and accessible to those who need it, regardless of their zip code. Today’s hearing is an important step, and we thank the Chairman and the Committee for their attention to this topic.”
ASRM testimony also included first-hand accounts from several ASRM members in Alabama.
Read the full testimony
For almost a century, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) has been the global leader in multidisciplinary reproductive medicine research, ethical practice, and education. ASRM impacts reproductive care and science worldwide by creating funding opportunities for advancing reproduction research and discovery, by providing evidence-based education and public health information, and by advocating for reproductive health care professionals and the patients they serve. With members in more than 100 countries, the Society is headquartered in Washington, DC, with additional operations in Birmingham, AL. www.asrm.org
For media inquiries regarding this press release contact:
Sean Tipton
ASRM Chief Advocacy and Policy Officer
E: stipton@asrm.org
Anna Hovey
Advocacy Engagement Specialist
E: ahovey@asrm.org
J. Benjamin Younger Office of Public Affairs
726 7th St. SE
Washington, DC 20003
Tel: (202) 863-2494
Fertility in the News
ASRM Reacts to Cruz/Britt OPED
We are pleased to see Senators Cruz and Britt express their interest in protecting access to IVF.
ASRM Files Amicus Brief in Texas Embryo Case
ASRM has filed an amicus curiae (friend of the court) brief in the case of Antoun v Antoun, which is pending before the Texas Supreme Court.
Resources For You
Find a Health Professional
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
ASRM Reacts to Cruz/Britt OPED
We are pleased to see Senators Cruz and Britt express their interest in protecting access to IVF.
View the Press ReleaseASRM Files Amicus Brief in Texas Embryo Case
ASRM has filed an amicus curiae (friend of the court) brief in the case of Antoun v Antoun, which is pending before the Texas Supreme Court.
View the Press ReleaseSurvey shows strong support for increased access to fertility treatments
A new public opinion poll reveals strong support for improved access to In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).
View the Press ReleaseNational Infertility Awareness Week 2024: Leave Your Mark
Next week is National Infertility Awareness Week, a federally recognized health observance founded to increase awareness of infertility.
View the Press ReleaseIVF-assisted pregnancies constitute 2.5% of all births in 2022
In 2022, the number of babies born from IVF increased from 89,208 in 2021 to 91,771 in 2022. This means that 2.5% of births in the US are a result of ART.
View the Press ReleaseASRM reacts to Alabama legislation
We are pleased that the legislation passed into law by the Alabama General Assembly will at least allow our members in the state to care for their patients.
View the Press ReleaseIVF at the SOTU: Fertility care expected to be major focus at State of the Union
Protecting access to IVF care is expected to be a major theme of the State of the Union on Thursday.
View the Press ReleaseASRM Responds to Proposed Alabama Legislation
We are proud of our Alabama members and their patients, who have been such incredible advocates working to motivate their legislators to protect IVF.
View the Press ReleaseSenate Budget Hearing is Well Timed Following Alabama IVF Ruling
ASRM statement regarding the Senate Budget Committee’s hearing entitled: No Rights to Speak of: The Economic Harms of Restricting Reproductive Freedom.
View the Press ReleaseASRM Responds to Senate’s Failure to Pass Access to Family Building Act
We are disappointed by the Senate’s failure to meet the moment and pass federal legislation protecting access to in vitro fertilization (IVF).
View the Press ReleaseSociety of Reproductive Biologists and Technologists (SRBT) Condemns Recent Court Decision in Alabama
The recent ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court that frozen embryos are legally considered people has sparked controversy and concern.
View the Press ReleaseASRM Condemns Profoundly Misguided and Dangerous Court Decision in Alabama
In LePage v Mobile Infirmary Clinic, the Alabama Supreme Court made a decision that flies in the face of medical reality and the needs of the citizens.
View the Press ReleaseASRM applauds introduction of Access to Family Building Act of 2024
ASRM is thrilled by the introduction of the Access to Family Building Act
View the Press ReleaseSART Fertility Experts - Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Implantation Failure
"I can get pregnant, but I can't stay pregnant," is echoed by patients with recurrent pregnancy loss. Listen to the EpisodeSART Fertility Experts - Navigating IVF as a Couple
Mary Casey Jacob, PhD is interviewed by Dr. Daniel Grow, and together they explore the emotional and practical support that couples need. Listen to the EpisodeSART Fertility Experts - Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Candace discusses her experience with infertility, IVF, multiple pregnancy losses and ultimately a successful delivery with Dr. Julia Woodward.Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Infertility Advocacy and Government Affairs
In today's episode, Dr. Mark Trolice interviews Sean Tipton about the fact that many infertility patients do not have insurance coverage for treatment. Listen to the EpisodeSART Fertility Experts - Behind the Scenes in the IVF Lab
Dr. Sangita Jindal, helps patients understand the importance of the IVF lab when choosing an IVF program. Listen to the EpisodeSART Fertility Experts - Your Infertility Nurse: Partner in Your Care
Infertility nurse practitioner and health coach Monica Moore explains the essential role of the infertility nurse in the IVF process. Listen to the EpisodeSART Fertility Experts - Genetics and IVF
Genetics is a significant part of advanced reproductive technology screening. Listen to the EpisodeSART Fertility Experts - Fertility and LGBTQ
In this episode, Dr. Daniel Grow interviews Dr. Mark Leondires, the founder of Gay Parents To Be. Listen to the EpisodeSART Fertility Experts - What is an REI?
These experts in infertility lead IVF programs, perform reproductive surgery, and perform research to enhance the field of reproductive medicine. Listen to the EpisodeSART Fertility Experts - What is IVF?
In this episode, we discuss the ins-and-outs of in vitro fertilization (IVF). Listen to the EpisodeStart with SART
The very first thing you should do when evaluating a clinic is verify that it is a member of SART. Watch VideoPreparing for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Lifestyle Factors
This SART micro-video discusses lifestyle factors that may affect in vitro fertilization, or IVF, outcomes. Watch VideoThe Difference Between IUI and IVF
It is important to know Intrauterine insemination (IUI) or In vitro fertilization (IVF) can both be successful at helping grow your family. Watch VideoUnderstanding the SART Clinic Report
During this video we will discuss the SART Clinic Report concepts and demonstrate some of the report features. Watch VideoInfertility: an Overview (booklet)
Infertility is typically defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of unprotected intercourse. View the bookletProgesterone supplementation during IVF
Progesterone is a hormone produced by the ovary. View the fact sheetWhat is intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)?
A procedure called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can be done along with in vitro fertilization (IVF) if a sperm cannot penetrate the outer layer of an egg. Read the Fact SheetWhat is In Vitro Maturation (IVM)?
In vitro maturation (IVM) is when a woman’s eggs are collected and matured outside the body. This is done as part of an in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure. View the fact sheetIn vitro fertilization (IVF): what are the risks?
IVF is a method of assisted reproduction in which a man’s sperm and a woman’s eggs are combined outside of the body in a laboratory dish. View the fact sheetFertility Rights and Responsibilities
Can a fertility program or clinic deny treatment to patient(s) if there is concern about the ability to care for the child(ren)? Yes. Fertility programs can withhold services if there are signs that patients will not be able to care for child(ren). View this Fact SheetHydrosalpinx
The fallopian tubes are attached to the uterus (womb) on the left and right sides. View the Fact SheetPreimplantation genetic testing (including preimplantation genetic diagnosis and preimplantation genetic screening)
Your embryos can be tested for abnormal chromosomes before they are transferred to the uterus. View the fact sheetWhat do I need to know about conceiving after tubal surgery?
Fallopian tubes connect the ovary (where the eggs are stored and grow) to the uterus (womb), where the fertilized egg develops into a baby (fetus). View the fact sheetSide effects of injectable fertility drugs (gonadotropins)
Gonadotropins are fertility medications given by injection that contain follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) alone or combined with luteinizing hormone (LH). View the fact sheetSART FAQ About IVF
Created by the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) the following are answers to frequently asked questions concerning in vitro fertilization (IVF). Learn the factsKristen Ritchie's Story
I spent seven years navigating infertility, which was tumultuous but also a period of tremendous personal growth in hindsight. Read the storyIn Vitro Fertilization Infographics
ASRM has prepared infographics to illustrate the subject of in vitro fertilization (IVF) better. View the infographicsIt takes more than one
Why IVF patients often need multiple embryos to have a baby View the advocacy resourceWhat support for IVF looks like
Bipartisan support for IVF, that is responsible for the birth of over 2% of all babies born in the USA each year, will ensure that families continue to grow. View the advocacy resourceAdvocacy Resources
ASRM has prepared resources to help explain and advocate for reproductive rights and the continuation of in vitro fertilization and other fertility treatments. View the advocacy resourcesAccess to Care
Survey shows strong support for increased access to fertility treatments
A new public opinion poll reveals strong support for improved access to In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).
View the Press ReleaseLeave Your Mark! NIAW April 21-27
National Infertility Awareness Week Action Round-Up Click here to leave your mark during NIAW2024National Infertility Awareness Week 2024: Leave Your Mark
Next week is National Infertility Awareness Week, a federally recognized health observance founded to increase awareness of infertility.
View the Press ReleaseSART Fertility Experts - Advocacy and Reproductive Access
Dr. Cristin Slater and Betsy Campbell from RESOLVE discuss: barriers to infertility care; opportunities to get infertility care; and recent trends. Listen to the EpisodeSART Fertility Experts - Access To Care
Learn how a variety of factors such as geography, race, and the availability of comprehensive infertility mandates affect access to effective infertility treatment. Listen to the EpisodeA Message from the Office of Public Affairs
ASRM is already pushing for legislation in Congress and the states to protect IVF. It requires resources to analyze and advocate for or against these bills. Help ASRM Protect IVFASRM reacts to Alabama legislation
We are pleased that the legislation passed into law by the Alabama General Assembly will at least allow our members in the state to care for their patients.
View the Press ReleaseIVF at the SOTU: Fertility care expected to be major focus at State of the Union
Protecting access to IVF care is expected to be a major theme of the State of the Union on Thursday.
View the Press ReleaseASRM Responds to Proposed Alabama Legislation
We are proud of our Alabama members and their patients, who have been such incredible advocates working to motivate their legislators to protect IVF.
View the Press ReleaseSenate Budget Hearing is Well Timed Following Alabama IVF Ruling
ASRM statement regarding the Senate Budget Committee’s hearing entitled: No Rights to Speak of: The Economic Harms of Restricting Reproductive Freedom.
View the Press ReleaseASRM Responds to Senate’s Failure to Pass Access to Family Building Act
We are disappointed by the Senate’s failure to meet the moment and pass federal legislation protecting access to in vitro fertilization (IVF).
View the Press ReleaseSociety of Reproductive Biologists and Technologists (SRBT) Condemns Recent Court Decision in Alabama
The recent ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court that frozen embryos are legally considered people has sparked controversy and concern.
View the Press ReleaseASRM Condemns Profoundly Misguided and Dangerous Court Decision in Alabama
In LePage v Mobile Infirmary Clinic, the Alabama Supreme Court made a decision that flies in the face of medical reality and the needs of the citizens.
View the Press ReleaseASRM applauds introduction of Access to Family Building Act of 2024
ASRM is thrilled by the introduction of the Access to Family Building Act
View the Press ReleaseSART Fertility Experts - Single Motherhood
We explore personal experiences that led to the creation of "Single Mothers by Choice" as well as considerations faced by those pursing single motherhood. Listen to the EpisodeAccess to Care Infographics
ASRM has prepared infographics to illustrate the subject of Access to Care better. View the InfographicsIt takes more than one
Why IVF patients often need multiple embryos to have a baby View the advocacy resourceWhat support for IVF looks like
Bipartisan support for IVF, that is responsible for the birth of over 2% of all babies born in the USA each year, will ensure that families continue to grow. View the advocacy resourceAdvocacy Resources
ASRM has prepared resources to help explain and advocate for reproductive rights and the continuation of in vitro fertilization and other fertility treatments. View the advocacy resourcesReproductive Rights
ASRM reacts to Alabama legislation
We are pleased that the legislation passed into law by the Alabama General Assembly will at least allow our members in the state to care for their patients.
View the Press ReleaseASRM Responds to Proposed Alabama Legislation
We are proud of our Alabama members and their patients, who have been such incredible advocates working to motivate their legislators to protect IVF.
View the Press ReleaseSenate Budget Hearing is Well Timed Following Alabama IVF Ruling
ASRM statement regarding the Senate Budget Committee’s hearing entitled: No Rights to Speak of: The Economic Harms of Restricting Reproductive Freedom.
View the Press ReleaseASRM Responds to Senate’s Failure to Pass Access to Family Building Act
We are disappointed by the Senate’s failure to meet the moment and pass federal legislation protecting access to in vitro fertilization (IVF).
View the Press ReleaseSociety of Reproductive Biologists and Technologists (SRBT) Condemns Recent Court Decision in Alabama
The recent ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court that frozen embryos are legally considered people has sparked controversy and concern.
View the Press ReleaseASRM Condemns Profoundly Misguided and Dangerous Court Decision in Alabama
In LePage v Mobile Infirmary Clinic, the Alabama Supreme Court made a decision that flies in the face of medical reality and the needs of the citizens.
View the Press ReleaseASRM applauds introduction of Access to Family Building Act of 2024
ASRM is thrilled by the introduction of the Access to Family Building Act
View the Press Release