IVF, or In Vitro Fertilization, is approximately 46 years old, dating back to the birth of the first IVF baby in 1978.
While the initial success rates were low, IVF technology has advanced significantly over the years. Here's a brief timeline and overview:
Timeline of IVF:
- 1978: Louise Brown, the first "test-tube baby," is born in England, marking the beginning of successful IVF.
- Early Years: IVF techniques are refined, and success rates gradually improve.
- Present Day: IVF is a widely used and relatively common fertility treatment, with ongoing advancements like preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) and improved embryo culture techniques. Success rates are now significantly higher, especially for women under 35.
IVF Success Rates Over Time:
| Year(s) | Approximate Success Rate (per cycle) |
|---|---|
| Around 1978 | Single-digit percentages |
| Present Day | Nearly 50% (women under 35) |
Key Improvements in IVF Technology:
- Improved Ovarian Stimulation Protocols: These protocols help retrieve more eggs, increasing the chances of fertilization.
- Advanced Embryo Culture Techniques: Better laboratory conditions support healthier embryo development.
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A technique where a single sperm is directly injected into an egg, particularly useful in cases of male infertility.
- Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT): Screening embryos for genetic abnormalities before implantation can improve success rates and reduce the risk of miscarriage.
In conclusion, IVF has evolved from an experimental procedure to a well-established and increasingly effective fertility treatment over the past 46 years.
