An artificial womb as described in science fiction such as 'Brave New World' is a device to support the life and maturation of a human embryo, replacing normal natural pregnancy and childbirth. It may eventually be less risky for both mother and child and may have social changes for the status of women, particularly with regard to careers. It is a likely outcome of developments in human cloning (for early stages) and reproduction sciences (incubators, etc. - for late stages).