Before reproductive techniques with the analysis of the genetic material of reproductive cells or embryos in vitro or with the selection of donor sperm cells to prevent the transmission of a serious disease are carried out, the physician shall, in addition to the provision of information and counselling in accordance with Article 6, ensure that the couple concerned receive non-directive, expert genetic counselling. In this connection, the couple must receive sufficient information on:
the frequency, significance and probability of contracting the disease and its potential symptoms;
prophylactic and therapeutic measures that may be taken against the disease;
ways of organising the life of a child that suffers from the disease;
the informative value of and risk of error in the analysis of the genetic material;
risks that reproductive techniques carry for offspring;
Counselling may only concern the individual and family situation of the couple concerned and not the interests of society as a whole.
The physician carries out the selection of one or more embryos for transfer to the uterus following a further counselling session.
The physician must keep records of the counselling sessions.