XY sperm separation for sex selection.

At present, laboratory methods that can successfully differentiate X- from Y-bearing sperm do exist; namely, staining with quinacrine mustard and DNA flow cytometry. However, methods that can successfully and reproducibly separate X- from Y-bearing sperm with resultant functionally intact sperm have yet to be developed. The area of sex selection is under intensive investigation, and a reliable method of separation will undoubtedly become available in the near future. To the extent that these techniques would be used to help couples avoid sex-linked genetic diseases, preimplantation gender selection is ethically justifiable. Social and ethical factors are important considerations in justifying other applications of these techniques.