Ivan Zmijanović, Vesna Gall

DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.64332/ujbb.2.2.5

Abstract
Prenatal diagnostics is one of the most dynamic areas of modern medicine. Its application provides invaluable benefits through early detection of fetal malformations, timely planning of delivery, and the possibility of intrauterine therapeutic interventions. At the same time, it opens a series of ethical challenges related to maternal autonomy, the dignity of the unborn child, the responsibility of physicians, and the role of society.

The article presents the fundamental principles of medical ethics – autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice – as key guidelines in decision-making. Special attention is devoted to the dangers of test commercialization, the risk of false-positive results, and the possibility of discrimination based on sex or disability. Emphasis is placed on the importance of trust and quality communication between the physician and the family, as well as the need for equal access to modern methods regardless of socioeconomic status.

Future developments in prenatal diagnostics, including the application of artificial intelligence and genomic analysis, raise new questions about the boundary between medically justified procedures and covert eugenics. Therefore, prenatal diagnostics cannot be viewed merely as a medical procedure but also as a socio-ethical process in which personal decisions, legal frameworks, and cultural values intertwine.

In conclusion, prenatal diagnostics justifies its place in modern medicine only if it remains focused on the protection of life and respect for human dignity. This requires ongoing dialogue between medicine, ethics, and society, as well as strong social support for families with children with disabilities, since their integration and acceptance represent a measure of the humanity and maturity of the community.

Keywords: prenatal diagnostics; medical ethics; autonomy; beneficence; non-maleficence; justice; fetal anomalies