Infertility,abortion, and biotechnology

Patterns of reproductive failure described in humans and other mammals suggest that reproductive failure may in many instances be the result of adaptations evolved to suppress reproduction under temporarily harsh conditions. By suppressing reproduction under such conditions, females are able to conserve their time and energy for reproductive opportunities in which reproduction is most likely to succeed. Such adaptations have been particularly important for female mammals, given (a) the amount of time and energy that reproduction requires, and (b) the degree to which reproductive conditions can vary. The existence of conscious and unconscious mechanisms to suppress reproduction under poor conditions has several implications for obstetric/gynecologic practices. Two implications are discussed with reference to biotechnological advancements in our ability to facilitate conceptions and manage problem pregnancies: (a) potential dangers of sophisticated technologies overriding natural fertility controls; and (b) the need for greater appreciation of the association between psychosocial stress and reproductive failure in the treatment of reproductive problems. Implications for elective abortion practices are discussed as well. The ideas for this paper were developed while the author was a recipient of a Career Development Award from the Harry Frank Guggenheim Foundation. Dr. Wasser received a B.S. degree of Zoology from Michigan State University in 1975, a Masters of Science in Zoology from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1976, and a Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Washington in 1981. He is co-director of the Animal Behavior Research Unit, a long-term study on the behavioral ecology and reproduction of free-ranging yellow baboons at Mikumi National Park, Tanzania. Dr. Wasser’s primary research focus is on the evolution of reproductive strategies in female mammals. His work includes research on human infertility and abortion. He is also working on the breeding of endangered species in captivity under a Research Development Award from the National Zoological Park of the Smithsonian Institution.