New Book Evaluates the Science and Ethics of In Vitro Fertilization

IVF is Not the Way: The False Promises of Artificial Procreation by Stacy Trasancos. Sophia Institute Press (Manchester, NH, 2025). 256 pp., paperback. $18.95. 

Perhaps you know someone who is struggling to conceive a child and, due to their frustration, is trying a method such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Or, maybe you know a child who was conceived through IVF. Although some individuals believe it is a good option, Stacy Trasancos, PhD’s new book IVF is Not the Way presents another view.

Trasancos is the author of Particles of Faith: A Catholic Guide to Navigating Science and co-author of Behold It Is I: Scripture, Tradition, and Science on the Real Presence. She is also an Adjunct Professor for Seton Hall University’s Catholic Studies Program and at Holy Apostles College & Seminary. 

In her recent blog post, author Stacy Trasancos provides a sneak peek into her new book, explaining, “My intended audience for this book is you, the citizens of our nation or any other nation interested in understanding the Catholic Church’s teaching on the dignity of life and sanctity of marriage. To build this teaching, my book also reviews how God’s existence can be known through natural reason, how we accept divine revelation in faith, and how we understand the human to be made in the image and likeness of God with inherent dignity and rights.”

In IVF is Not the Way, Trasancos lays out Five Principles of Human Life to help readers sort through the ethical considerations. They will find information about the science behind IVF and answers to various questions, including: 

? How can IVF be opposed to human dignity if it allows couples to bear new life?

? What do we as a society do about all the embryos in cryogenic storage?

? Why exactly does the Church oppose IVF?

Additionally, Trasancos thoughtfully addresses other aspects regarding the use of IVF, including our call to embrace children who have already been born through this method. 

Trasancos continued, “Whether or not you are Catholic, whether you have used IVF or are thinking about it, or whether you want to defend or try to debunk the argument, I will guide you through the hardest parts of the teaching.”

As Samantha Stephenson, Paul Ramsey Fellow at the Center for Bioethics and Culture and host of the "Brave New Us" podcast said, “Clear and compelling, IVF Is Not the Way articulates eternal truths in a voice for our times. Trasancos distills a topic that is emotionally and morally fraught in a way that is cogent and compassionate. This book is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand and defend the Church's teaching on IVF.”

Members of the media may send an email to Sophia Institute Press’ Director of Publicity, Sarah Lemieux at slemieux@SophiaInstitute.com to receive a physical or digital copy of IVF is Not the Way and/or to schedule an interview with Stacy Trasancos.