Background Information
Reports about a possible romantic relationship between Amber Heard and Elon Musk are not new to the public. In July 2016, rumours began to circulate that the two had been spotted together, which became particularly prominent when Amber Heard filed for divorce from her husband, actor Johnny Depp, the same month. The relationship between Heard and Musk was not confirmed until April 2017, when they appeared together at the Met Gala in New York City. It has been a rollercoaster relationship, with many speculations and controversies brought up regarding their time together.
Elon Musk’s Children
Elon Musk is known to have 6 children, 4 of which are twins and triplets – resulting from a sperm donation. All of his children have been born to different mothers. His first children, twin boys, were born to ex-wife, Justine Wilson. In 2010, a second set of twins was born to his girlfriend at the time, Canadian author, Clancy Brown. The fifth child was born to a close friend of Musk’s in 2014, and the sixth was born to his current girlfriend, musician, Grimes in 2020.
Amber Heard and Elon Musk – Had They Considered Embryos?
It is reported that the pair, during their relationship, had considered the use of extra-uterine insemination (EUI) in order for them to have children together. However, during a podcast interview in 2019 with the New York Times, Musk cleared up the rumours. He explained that the discussion of having child together did not necessarily mean they wanted to have a child, but were instead looking into the option itself. Musk stated that it had been a “crazy idea” to ever consider this and they had never discussed it seriously.
Implication of the EUI
EUI is the process of fertilising and implanting an embryo outside the body, and there are many ethical considerations to be taken into account. This form of reproduction is expensive, time-consuming and can be emotionally and physically taxing. Moreover, there is a high risk of cumulative genetic genetic and epigenetic damage, with environmental and lifestyle exposures also playing a role. It is likely that Musk and Heard understood the implications of EUI before considering such a complex and delicate decision.
Analysis of the Discussion
It appears that Elon Musk and Amber Heard did in fact discuss the possibility of having a child through EUI. This is an indication of the seriousness of their relationship, as it is an extraordinary step for two people in a relatively early stage of their relationship. However, it further suggests that the two were perhaps not ready to take on such a big commitment and could have potentially ended their relationship as a result.
Experts’ Perspectives
Experts in the field have mixed opinions as to the potential outcome of this situation. Dr. Denise Forte, a fertility specialist and genetic counselor, states that decisions such as these should never be taken lightly and, in most cases, require thorough mental and physical preparation before any steps are taken. On the other hand, Dr. Meredith Wieder, a reproductive endocrinologist, claims that if Musk and Heard had gone through with the process, it could have resulted in a beautiful family. She further suggests that if both parties are truly committed to each other, EUI could be a means for them to have a child and cement their relationship.
My Thoughts and Insight
I believe that the discussion of EUI is an indication of a serious commitment between the two and that they both had weighed the pros and cons before considering it. However, the situation suggests that both Musk and Heard were likely not ready to take on such a big responsibility and that this could have been what ultimately ended their relationship.
Economic Implications of the Process
In terms of economic implications, EUI is a much more expensive procedure than traditional methods of reproduction. It involves many steps and could cost thousands of dollars per cycle of egg retrieval, donor sperm injection, fertilization, embryo growth and implantation. This makes EUI out of reach for many individuals who would otherwise be able to have children through traditional methods.
Risks Involved in EUI
The process of EUI also involves risks to both expectant parents’ health. Women undergoing the procedure may experience infections, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and other complications which are not typical of traditional reproduction. There is also the risk of genetic and epigenetic damage, caused by environmental and lifestyle exposures being passed on to the newly created embryo.
Ethical Implications of the Process
Another important consideration is ethical implications. EUI is seen by some as a violation of women’s rights due to the potential of unscrupulous use of women’s eggs and embryos, as well as the potential of an exploitative relationship between the expectant mother and the donor. There is also potential for manipulation and exploitation in surrogacy and donation agreements, with donors and/or surrogates not being able to make decisions free from external pressure and presents ethical conflicts.
Impact of EUI on Surrogacy
The increasing popularity of EUI has had an impact on surrogacy. As EUI is seen by some as a less costly and less legally complex alternative to surrogacy, many couples have chosen to opt for this method over surrogacy. This has resulted in a decrease in demand for surrogates and a corresponding decrease in fees that surrogate mothers are able to charge for their services.
Social Implications of EUI
Lastly, there is the potential for significant social implications. As EUI is a relatively new field, it is not yet widely accepted by society and there are potential stigma and discrimination associated with this process. This could potentially be damaging to relationships and friendships between those engaging in EUI, as well as to their own relationships with family and community.
All in all, the potential decision to opt for EUI that Amber Heard and Elon Musk considered has deep implications, both ethically and socially. It is important to consider the potential consequences of EUI before deciding to opt for this method of reproduction.
