The Infertility Treadmill
Wednesday, August 13 2008
by Frank Stasio and Katy Barron
Editor's Note: One of the perils of doing a live show is that there's always a chance your guest will call in sick. That's what happened today. We were expecting to have a conversation with Durham novelist Haven Kimmel about her new book, "Iodine." Unfortunately, Haven isn't feeling well today and was unable to come in. We will re-schedule that interview in the near future.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 9.5 million American women currently use some kind of infertility service. That’s up from 2 million in 1983, and fewer than one million in 1972. Bio-technology has progressed radically in the last 30 years and new and improved treatments offer new hope for women who have trouble getting pregnant. But the mushrooming growth in reproductive therapies also raises ethical questions. Are some women stuck on the infertility treadmill? Host Frank Stasio discusses the emotional, financial and societal impact of infertility treatments with Karey Harwood, assistant professor of Philosophy and Religion at N.C. State University, and Dr. Bill Meyer of Carolina Conceptions in Raleigh. Plus, Sasha Morris, Candace Clemmer, ClarLynda Williams-DeVane and Kristin Moore share their personal struggles with infertility. Re-broadcast: this program originially aired on June 18, 2008.
