Thorough investigation needed into Hong Kong clinic’s IVF embryo mix-up
The last thing couples trying to conceive need is a loss of confidence in the medical science during a time of extreme stress
Embryo mix-ups during the in vitro fertilisation process make headlines very rarely, thankfully. This is because most accredited reproductive clinics are not only closely regulated but also apply safeguards every step of the way to ensure the correct matching of eggs, sperm and embryos. Otherwise, a clinic and its patients could face their worst nightmare – transfer of the wrong embryo.
An investigation is under way and the health department has reported the case to the police. Council chairman Professor Raymond Liang Hin-suen said human error has not been ruled out.
It is hard to exaggerate the anxiety such reports can cause couples who have turned to IVF to realise their dream of starting a family – often as a last resort after years of trying to conceive. It can be a deeply emotional time, leaving them feeling vulnerable. What they don’t need, when putting their faith in a last resort to have a child, is a loss of confidence in the biggest hope of conception medical science has to offer for some people.
The investigation has to be serious and thorough to a fault to establish what went wrong – and where – and what can be done to enhance patient safety.
Despite Hong Kong’s low birth rate, demand for IVF remains strong, as evidenced by the 15 assisted reproduction centres licensed to provide comprehensive IVF services.