French deputies push to legalize preimplantation diagnosis for embryo screening, aiming to reduce pregnancy risks and address current medical disparities.
French deputies propose new law
French deputies have introduced a cross-party bill to allow preimplantation diagnosis of aneuploidies (DPI-A) for couples undergoing medically assisted reproduction (PMA). This would change current laws that prohibit the procedure except for specific genetic disease cases.Bill supported by advocacy group
The bill was co-written with the BAMP! collective, which has pushed for this change for 13 years. It was introduced by Constance de Pélichy, a deputy from the Loiret, along with other deputies from various political groups.DPI-A aims to detect chromosomal issues
DPI-A involves analyzing embryo cells to identify chromosomal abnormalities before implantation. It would be allowed in cases such as maternal age over 35, repeated implantation failures, or genetic conditions that increase the risk of aneuploidies.High demand for the procedure
The Agence de biomédecine reports that about 1,000 requests for DPI-A are made in France each year, with two-thirds approved. However, the procedure is currently banned in France except for specific genetic disease cases.Procedure available in other countries
DPI-A is already permitted in countries like Spain and Belgium. Some French patients travel abroad for the procedure, raising concerns about unequal access to medical care and parenthood options.Supporters argue for better outcomes
Constance de Pélichy, who herself underwent PMA, says allowing DPI-A would improve the PMA process by selecting genetically viable embryos. This could reduce miscarriage risks and the need for medical pregnancy interruptions.Bill would be handled case by case
The proposed law would allow DPI-A to be offered on a case-by-case basis by PMA centers. The sole purpose would be to check the number of chromosomes in the embryo, ensuring only viable embryos are selected.Deputy seeks political support
De Pélichy aims to get at least 60 co-signatures to include the bill in the cross-party week at the National Assembly in late November. The parliamentary process is described as tight and requiring strong political effort.
