Background Since the revision of French bioethics laws in 2021, requests for medically assisted reproduction (MAR) from single women have increased significantly. Specific challenges are faced by CECOS (Centre d'Étude et de Conservation des Ovocytes et du Sperme humain). Purpose This article questions the ethical aspects of current support for single women undergoing MAR and motherhood. Methods Here, we analyze single motherhood through the lens of the founding principles of medical ethics: respect for beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy and justice. Findings The decision of a ‘single’ woman to start a family through MAR, without a partner (which does not mean that she is isolated or lonely) as being on the margins of dominant social family norms. Concerns may be expressed about the absence of a second parent and may sometimes mask value judgements on the part of relatives and healthcare professionals. Conclusions It is important to support all types of motherhood by consolidating services dedicated to maternal and child health.

Background Since the revision of French bioethics laws in 2021, requests for medically assisted reproduction (MAR) from single women have increased significantly. Specific challenges are faced by CECOS (Centre d'Étude et de Conservation des Ovocytes et du Sperme humain). Purpose This article questions the ethical aspects of current support for single women undergoing MAR and motherhood. Methods Here, we analyze single motherhood through the lens of the founding principles of medical ethics: respect for beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy and justice. Findings The decision of a ‘single’ woman to start a family through MAR, without a partner (which does not mean that she is isolated or lonely) as being on the margins of dominant social family norms. Concerns may be expressed about the absence of a second parent and may sometimes mask value judgements on the part of relatives and healthcare professionals. Conclusions It is important to support all types of motherhood by consolidating services dedicated to maternal and child health.