Yes, IVF is legal in Puerto Rico under Act No. 136 of 2019, which regulates assisted reproductive technologies. The law permits IVF for married couples, unmarried individuals, and same-sex partners, aligning with U.S. constitutional protections. The Puerto Rico Department of Health oversees compliance, requiring licensed fertility clinics to adhere to ethical and procedural standards. Recent 2026 amendments mandate stricter embryo disposition protocols and mandatory counseling for prospective parents.
Key Regulations for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in Puerto Rico
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Licensing and Clinic Standards: IVF providers must obtain authorization from the Puerto Rico Department of Health, which enforces facility inspections and technical proficiency benchmarks. Clinics must maintain records of all procedures, donor gametes, and patient outcomes for a minimum of 10 years.
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Embryo Disposition and Consent: Parents must sign detailed consent forms outlining embryo storage, donation, or disposal options. The 2026 amendments prohibit embryo destruction without explicit prior consent, aligning with emerging bioethical frameworks in U.S. territories.
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Parental Rights and Donor Restrictions: Legal parentage is automatically conferred to intended parents, regardless of genetic contribution. Anonymous gamete donation is permitted, but donors waive parental rights; Puerto Rico’s Civil Code enforces these provisions to prevent future disputes.