The U.S. continues to see surging numbers of foreign nationals pursuing reproductive tourism, particularly focusing on in vitro fertilization (IVF) and surrogacy. The Supreme Court’s decision on birthright citizenship has brought increased attention to these practices, prompting discussions about restricting all forms of reproductive tourism.
Reproductive Tourism: Beyond Birth Tourism
Reproductive tourism involves more than just surrogacy. Most tourists seek IVF services, which offer advanced technology not available globally. Clinics in the U.S. attract international clients, especially with services related to genetic testing, embryo creation, and donor selection.
Industry Data: By the Numbers
A study of the national IVF registry recorded 59,246 assisted reproductive cycles by non-U.S. residents between 2014 and 2022. Clients represented 182 countries, with China leading at 19,718 cycles. These patients use services differently than Americans, opting more for genetic testing and donor options.
Service Restrictions in Other Countries
Many countries restrict practices available in the U.S. For instance, Britain eliminated donor anonymity, citing children’s rights to origins. Non-medical sex selection faces bans in countries like Canada and Australia. In contrast, the U.S. lacks federal laws regulating these practices beyond basic health screening.
Accessing U.S. Fertility Services
Foreign nationals find it straightforward to access these services. They use B-2 medical visas, handle medical arrangements, and ensure funds. Embryos shipped to the U.S. for testing or surrogacy purposes further illustrate ease of access.
Selling Embryos, Selection, and Citizenship
Embryo creation is a key sale. IVF regularly creates more embryos than needed, leaving millions in storage. Selection becomes a focal point, with clinics marketing traits like sex and genetic potentials. This transforms the process from crisis resolution to designing ideal offspring.
Egg donor agencies offer selections based on physical and educational traits. Such practices mirror catalog shopping, raising ethical concerns. One high-profile case involved Olympic skater Alysa Liu, born via an American donor’s eggs and surrogate mother.
Birthright citizenship incentivizes these practices. Foreign nationals buying birth services in the U.S. essentially purchase citizenship benefits, creating further ethical implications.
The Clinics’ Approach
Clinics overtly promote services like egg donation and gender selection to international clients, stressing options often unavailable elsewhere. They offer comprehensive services, including travel arrangements and accommodations, appealing to global clientele.
Implications and National Identity
The U.S. faces an infertility crisis domestically but continues global offerings of embryo creation, sex selection, and donor services. This reality prompts reflection on whether the country aids its citizens’ family creation or prioritizes commercial ventures for international buyers.
The answer lies in regulatory changes. Until borders for reproductive technology are closed, interpretations lean toward enabling these commercial practices. This perception shapes the international view of American reproductive services.
Emma Waters, Policy Analyst, The Heritage Foundation