IVF: 45 Years Later, Hope and Challenges

New Aim to Improve IVF Success Rates

It’s been over 45 years since Louise Brown, the first baby born through IVF, was conceived. Yet, IVF is still a gamble for many couples. New research is exploring ways to change that.

In IVF, embryologists carefully handle fertilized eggs, hoping at least one will develop into a healthy baby. After the eggs are fertilized, many couples face an agonizing waiting period. Some opt for time-lapse imaging, a high-tech method that tracks the embryos’ growth. Clinics promise it could improve success rates.

However, a study published in The Lancet in 2024 found no significant difference in live birth rates between IVF cycles with or without time-lapse imaging. Despite this, many clinics still offer the technology, often at an additional cost of hundreds of dollars.

Since IVF’s invention, more than 10 million children have been born worldwide, but success rates are still not guaranteed. The live birth rate is around 30-40% for women over 35, and overall success is still lower than hoped. While technology and methods improve, IVF remains an emotional and physical challenge.

Some researchers are working on new techniques to improve egg retrieval and embryo development. In the UK, a new needle design helps collect more eggs with less damage. In Spain, magnetic nanoparticles are being used to handle eggs and embryos gently, without physical contact. Early tests on animals have shown promise, but human trials are still needed.

Meanwhile, scientists in Australia are exploring ways to measure embryo health by analyzing lipid levels. Though still in the early stages, this could help predict which embryos are more likely to result in live births.

Despite these innovations, IVF cycles often end in failure. However, advancements in lab techniques and drug treatments for egg production have made a difference. Some researchers are turning to artificial intelligence to further personalize treatment.

The most groundbreaking possibility for IVF may come from in vitro gametogenesis (IVG), a technique that could produce sperm and eggs from ordinary tissue. Though still years away, IVG could help people without sperm or eggs to have children. It might even enable same-sex parents to have children without donor eggs or sperm.

IVG could transform IVF by increasing the number of eggs and embryos available, making repeated cycles easier. But, ethical concerns and questions about the reliability of IVG remain.

IVF has come a long way in the past 45 years, but it still faces many challenges. While some improvements are small, the future may hold even greater hope for couples struggling with infertility. As one patient recently shared with Tim Child, an IVF specialist, after three years of trying, they finally received the joyful news of a heartbeat on their scan.