Access to reproductive technologies
Lesbians often rejected by fertility clinics


   Many lesbians, bisexuals and gay men are parents, and many
others want to be.
   As EGALE testified to the Royal Commission on New Reproductive
Technologies, we want the same access as heterosexuals to
technologies such as artificial insemination and in-vitro
fertilization.
   A study of Canadian fertility clinics released by the Royal
Commission in April reported that, "in over half the [fertility
programs], being a lesbian or a woman without a partner was a
probable or possible cause for disqualification."
   Access to reproductive technologies is particularly important
for our community as we have often been denied the right to adopt
children.


The EGALE questionnaire asked


Do you support health system policies that would provide lesbians
and gay men with the same access to reproductive technologies as
heterosexuals?


Conservatives: ?
"[This matter] is currently not covered under federal law. The
Royal Commission on Reproductive Technologies is looking into this
and other related issues."

Liberals: ?
"Liberals are awaiting the final report of the Royal Commission -
due in mid-July - in order to study the recommendations addressing
this matter."

New Democrats: Yes