Posthumous homologous artificial insemination: a bioethical analysis of family planning

Abstract

This article discusses issues related to post mortem homologous artificial insemination. Taking as reference ethical norms that ensure the couple’s free choice in family planning, the objective was to understand how such regulations would influence the accomplishment of this parental project. Using the hypothetical-deductive method, a literature review on bioethics and biolaw was carried out, in addition to a documentary research on the website of the Federal Council of Medicine. Then, reflections on the principle of autonomy of patients undergoing assisted reproduction techniques were made, considering some of the repercussions of this technique on family and succession law. Finally, a description of the method of clinical casuistry is presented, being used by clinics as a parameter to make decisions and advise the surviving spouse about the problem of posthumous conception.