ART Grievances: Ensuring Ethical Fertility Care

Becoming a parent is a dream many couples hold close to their hearts. Thanks to Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), this dream is now possible for many who once struggled with infertility. But, underneath the hope and development, there are also moments of confusion, unmet expectations, and concerns that often go unheard.

These concerns—whether related to transparency, care, or ethical practices—are known as ART grievances. Understanding them is critical not only for patients but for everyone engaged in the process.

In this blog, we aim to raise awareness about what ART grievances are, why they matter, and how recognizing them can help create a safer, more respectful experience for individuals who rely on ART.

What Are ART Grievances?

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), including procedures like IVF and ICSI, offers hope to individuals seeking pregnancy. However, it also presents challenges that can lead to grievances.

These often arise from:

• Lack of Transparency: Patients may not receive complete information about procedures, success rates, or risks, leading to misunderstandings and mistrust.

• Ethical Concerns: Some clinics may engage in practices that fall short of ethical standards, such as mishandling of gametes or embryos.

• Discrimination: The ART Regulation Act, 2021, limits access to ART services primarily for married heterosexual couples and single women, excluding LGBTQ+ individuals, live-in partners, and single men, raising concerns about equality.

• Inadequate Grievance Redressal: Patients often struggle to find clear pathways to voice their complaints, resulting in feelings of helplessness.

Why Addressing ART Grievances Is Important

ART procedures often involve complex emotional, physical, and financial journeys. Addressing grievances is not just about fixing mistakes—it’s about creating a safer, more respectful space for individuals and couples who are already vulnerable.

Here’s why it matters:

• Patient safety and ethical medical practices: Regulation helps ensure that clinics follow ethical guidelines, use safe procedures, and protect patients from exploitation or misuse of their genetic material.

• Protecting the rights of all stakeholders: ART involves not just the intending parents, but also donors, surrogates, and the child to be born. Clear grievance redressal mechanisms help safeguard everyone's legal and emotional rights.

• Maintaining trust in ART clinics and professionals: When concerns are acknowledged and resolved fairly, it builds long-term trust in the medical system. Patients feel confident in seeking help without fear of mistreatment or being left unheard.

• Promoting transparency and accountability: With rising ART services across India, regulation helps ensure that clinics provide accurate information about success rates, risks, and treatment options.

• Encouraging responsible innovation: Addressing grievances also guides professionals to improve their practices and adopt more patient-centric approaches while continuing to innovate responsibly.

By recognizing and addressing these issues, we ensure that ART truly becomes a hopeful journey—not just a medical procedure, but a human one.

Government Regulations & Support Mechanisms

The Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act of 2021 was passed to enhance ethical procedures, safety, and transparency in ART services throughout India. Key provisions of the Act include:​

• Establishment of Regulatory Bodies: The Act mandates the formation of the National Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy Board and State Boards to oversee ART clinics and banks, ensuring adherence to ethical standards and regulations. 

• Registration Requirements: All ART clinics and banks are required to register under the Act. In order to function lawfully, this process requires inspections and adherence to certain requirements.

• Grievance Redressal Mechanisms: The Act stipulates that every ART clinic and bank establish a grievance cell to address complaints from patients and donors, promoting accountability and trust in ART services. 

• Role of Appropriate Authorities: Designated authorities are empowered to take legal action against misuse of ART services, supervise implementation of the Act's provisions, and recommend necessary modifications to regulations. ​ 

• Informed Consent and Ethical Practices: The Act emphasizes obtaining written informed consent from all parties involved in ART procedures and sets guidelines for ethical practices, including the use of donor gametes and embryo cryopreservation.

These regulations aim to create a structured and ethical environment for ART services, protecting the rights of all stakeholders and enhancing the overall trust in reproductive healthcare services.

Final Thoughts

Transparency and honest communication are essential in the delicate journey of assisted reproduction, as they foster trust and provide a positive experience for all involved. Patients, donors, and clinics must work together in a space where questions are welcomed and rights are respected.

If you or someone you know is considering ART, remember—it’s okay to ask questions, seek clarification, and speak up. Grievances are not complaints; they are opportunities to improve care and uphold dignity.

By spreading awareness and encouraging open dialogue, we move closer to a system where ethical practices, safety, and patient well-being are always prioritized.