Yes, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is legal in South Africa, governed by the National Health Act 61 of 2003 and Health Professions Act 56 of 1974, with oversight from the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and the Department of Health. Recent amendments, effective 2026, introduce stricter embryo storage and genetic testing protocols, aligning with global bioethical standards.
Key Regulations for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in South Africa
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Embryo Storage Limits: IVF clinics must adhere to a 10-year storage limit for embryos unless extended for medical or research purposes, per HPCSA guidelines. Post-2026, mandatory annual reviews of storage conditions will apply, with penalties for non-compliance.
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Genetic Screening Restrictions: Pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) is permitted solely for preventing hereditary diseases or chromosomal abnormalities. Sex selection for non-medical reasons remains prohibited under the 2026 amendments, reinforcing ethical boundaries.
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Donor Anonymity & Consent: Gamete donors must provide written consent, with anonymity preserved unless court-ordered disclosure is required. The 2026 regulations mandate centralized donor registries to track genetic lineage, addressing long-term ethical concerns.