Medical Subject Headings (MeSH): Ectogenesis

Ectogenesis is the term used to describe the artificial cultivation of human embryos or fetuses outside the womb. In healthcare, ectogenesis could potentially be used as a form of assisted reproductive technology (ART) to help couples or individuals who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. It could also be used to provide a safe environment for high-risk pregnancies, such as in cases of severe pre-eclampsia or other maternal health conditions that put the life of the mother and the fetus at risk.

However, ectogenesis is still in the realm of science fiction and has not yet been achieved in humans. While scientists have been able to maintain a sheep fetus outside the womb, it was only for a brief period of time, and the technology is not yet advanced enough to support the development of a human fetus.

Also, there are ethical concerns that arise with ectogenesis, such as the potential for the creation of ““designer babies”” or the commodification of human life. The legal and ethical implications of ectogenesis would need to be carefully considered before it could be considered as a viable option in healthcare.