Should there ever be limits placed on medical procedures? I’ve been pondering this idea since I heard about the woman who received the first uterus transplant.

While I’ve never dealt with infertility, I know so many women whose lives have been consumed by it (sometimes to the point of depression, divorce, and even bankruptcy). Having a child is such a strong urge for most women; when it’s not possible naturally, doctors can help with drugs, IVF, and other things that have been proven safe. Judaism acknowledges the importance of assisted reproduction and allows it, but we really need to stress the word “safe.” What’s not safe, evidently, is a uterus transplant. At least not yet—the transplant already failed!

I have so much compassion for this lady and her struggle. I’ve never walked in her shoes and I don’t judge her actions. Personally, though, I would never do it. To her, it represented the ultimate hope and gift. For me, it seems like Frankenstein science on par with cloning, gender selection, and other gray areas.

Does carrying a baby inside your body make you a mother? I don’t think so! Ask any woman who’s adopted or used a surrogate and they’d agree. Love is what makes the parent-child connection, not just genetics. There are thousands of children, after all, who are in need of a good home. Yes, biology does play a role, and nobody should deny that, but it shouldn’t be the only factor.

I’m curious how other ladies feel. Do you think it’s ethical or too risky?