IVF Clinic Faces Lawsuit for Allegedly Discarding Embryos of Marissa Calhoun and Stephen Castaneda
A high-profile fertility clinic in Los Angeles, known for treating celebrities such as Kim Kardashian, Chrissy Teigen, and Paris Hilton, is facing a lawsuit for allegedly discarding a couple’s embryos, jeopardizing their chances of having children.
Allegations Against Reproductive Partners Medical Group
Reproductive Partners Medical Group (RPMG) is being sued by Marissa Calhoun and Stephen Castaneda, who claim that the clinic made a grave error by discarding their embryos. According to the lawsuit, Marissa had her eggs retrieved and frozen by RPMG in 2021 and 2022. In October 2023, the couple attempted to fertilize these eggs with Stephen’s sperm under the guidance of Dr. Andy Huang. However, RPMG later informed them that all of their embryos had been discarded.
Details of the Lawsuit
The couple alleges that RPMG failed to label their embryos properly and then intentionally threw away the unlabeled embryos. They also claim that RPMG provided incomplete records of the incident on three separate occasions and did not adhere to proper policies and procedures for handling embryos.
Adam Wolf, a partner at Peiffer Wolf, described the situation as “outrageous,” emphasizing that the clinic’s actions were not only negligent but also a betrayal of trust. He criticized RPMG for failing to provide a complete set of records and for mishandling the embryos.
Impact on the Couple and Legal Action
Marissa and Stephen are seeking damages from RPMG, alleging that the clinic’s mistake has irreversibly impacted their ability to become biological parents. The lawsuit has drawn attention due to the clinic’s association with high-profile clients and the alleged mishandling of sensitive medical procedures.
Dr. Huang, who has treated several celebrities, including the Kardashian sisters, is named in the suit, which highlights the clinic’s failure to meet the standards expected in fertility treatments.