The number of embryos created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and stored in cryopreservation tanks worldwide is estimated to be in the millions, with some estimates suggesting up to 10 million in the US alone. This situation arises from the increasing demand for IVF, technological advancements, and higher success rates. In the UK, individuals like Lisa Holligan face decisions about what to do with leftover embryos, with options including donation for research, adoption, or destruction. However, in countries like Italy, the law mandates that unused embryos remain in storage indefinitely, with around 900,000 embryos currently in this state. Legal disputes over embryo ownership and usage are common, with courts often ruling on whether embryos are property or have a special legal status. The ethical, cultural, and religious implications further complicate these decisions, leaving many embryos in a state of limbo as patients, clinics, and lawmakers struggle to find a resolution.
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