Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 is a UK law that regulates assisted reproduction and embryo research. It established the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) to oversee fertility treatments and ensure ethical standards are maintained. The Act sets guidelines for in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), the use of donor sperm and eggs, and the handling of human embryos, including research parameters. It aims to protect the welfare of children conceived through these methods and ensures that scientific practices align with ethical considerations, balancing innovation in reproductive technologies with societal values.