The recent and future developments in knowledge relating to the genome and genetic engineering are expected to change the face of medicine and health care practices for the future. These advances are predicted to create many ethical and legal discussions, not least in relation to the embryo and the fetus. This book analyses the historical and present day status of the embryo and fetus in both ethical and legal matters, in an attempt to evaluate and speculate on the potential effects of the human genome knowledge explosion, and any subsequent genetic engineering techniques, on the moral and legal status of the fetus. Looking at both the positive and negative aspects of the new genetic practices, this book should prove of great interest to many health professionals, both student and practising, especially those involved in genetics, infertility treatment, obstetrics and midwifery.