In Vitro Fertilization

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a groundbreaking assisted reproductive technology (ART) that has revolutionized fertility treatment since its inception in the late 20th century. First successfully performed by Dr. Robert Edwards and Dr. Patrick Steptoe in 1978 with the birth of Louise Brown in the United Kingdom, the world's first "test-tube baby," IVF offered new hope to individuals and couples facing infertility. IVF involves retrieving oocytes from the ovaries following ovarian stimulation and fertilization with sperm outside the body in a laboratory setting. The resulting embryos are cultured for several days and then transferred into the uterus, typically under ultrasound guidance, to achieve pregnancy.  Over the decades, IVF has evolved from an experimental procedure into a widely accepted and increasingly successful treatment, thanks to advancements in medical technology, laboratory techniques, and genetic screening. The International Committee for Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technology (ICMART) has maintained the World IVF registry data since 1989. It estimates that around 10 million infants have been born from ART since its conception. Today, IVF accounts for 2.6% of births in the United States and steadily grows each year.[CDC. ART Surveillance. 2024] IVF is indicated for a wide range of infertility etiologies, including tubal factors, severe male-factor infertility, endometriosis, ovulatory dysfunction, and unexplained infertility. Its use has expanded beyond treating infertility to include preimplantation genetic testing for hereditary or chromosomal conditions, fertility preservation, and family building through donor gametes or gestational carriers. As the field continues to progress, IVF remains a cornerstone of reproductive medicine, continually expanding the possibilities of conception and parenthood.