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For Further Reflection
Case Studies
Low sperm count.
Matt and Kelly love children and have a strong desire to
have one or more of their own. They used birth control until their careers
were in order and then tried to conceive. After two years of trying, they con
sulted a fertility expert and discovered that Matt has an extremely low sperm
count. They tried artificial insemination (AIH), but that failed. Most of their
friends have one or more children, making their own infertility more painful.
They have felt their privacy invaded by fertility specialists. Worst of all, they
have endured the thoughtless remarks and jokes of others concerning their
childless state. They tried adoption but have been told that there simply are
no babies available in the categories they prefer. The process has strained
their relationship. Time after time, hope has given way to despair. They are
faced with one last decision: Should they attempt conception through AID,
or should they accept their infertility as God’s will for them? What would you
counsel them to do? What are the ethical considerations?
Sperm bank decision.
Barry and Ann Friesen have been married for two
years and are planning to conceive their first child in about a year, when their
financial situation stabilizes. They just discovered, however, that Barry has
cancer and will need extended chemotherapy. Doctors have warned that the
treatment may leave Barry sterile. The Friesens are considering the possibil
ity of storing Barry’s sperm in a sperm bank so that when they wish to con
ceive they will be able. Some of their Christian friends are favorable to the
idea, while others contend that Barry and Ann should not try to “play God”
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