Religious and cultural perspectives on assisted reproductive technology in Ghana: A comparative analysis of traditionalist, islamic, and christian beliefs

The moral implications of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) practices often pose a dilemma for those belonging to various cultural and religious groups. However, there is a gap in scientific studies examining the perspectives of spiritual leaders and their congregations regarding ART practices in Ghana. To bridge this gap, this paper employs a qualitative approach to investigate the religious, cultural, and personal interpretations of ART practices, including gamete donation, surrogacy, and cryopreservation, among 30 members of the key religions in Ghana. The study used in-depth interviews and focus group discussions to collect data, and the results were analysed thematically. The findings show that Islamic and Christian religious figures support the use of ART to treat infertility among married couples who use their gametes. However, they do not condone the use of third-party reproductive resources, such as gamete donation, surrogacy and cryopreservation. Traditionalists, on the other hand, do not endorse the use of ART in childbearing, as they believe it interferes with natural procreation processes and challenges the role of the Creator. Cultural, religious, ethical, and personal beliefs about procreation may have influenced the views on the acceptability of ART practices among the Traditionalists. It is, therefore, important to educate the public on theology, medical technology, and infertility while respecting individuals’ religious beliefs and values.