IVF: Expanding Possibilities for Pregnancy

IVF is a transformative advancement in reproductive medicine, offering a pathway to pregnancy for individuals and couples facing a wide range of fertility challenges. What was once considered experimental—technology and procedures enabling fertilization to occur outside of the body—is now a cornerstone of modern reproductive health care, turning hopes into tangible outcomes for millions of families.

How has IVF developed over the years?
The first successful birth using IVF in 1978 marked a turning point in reproductive science, demonstrating that human egg fertilization could occur in a laboratory setting. Although early techniques were limited and success rates were low, advances in hormone stimulation, embryo culture, and laboratory technology have since improved outcomes.

IVF’s reach and effectiveness have also increased through innovations such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection used to address male infertility, preimplantation genetic testing, and improved cryopreservation methods. Today, success rates are significantly higher than in the past and clinicians are better able to personalize treatment protocols to each patient’s unique needs.

Why does IVF matter?
Infertility affects a substantial number of people, and its causes are diverse. For example, ovulatory disorders, tubal disease, and issues with sperm can all affect an individual or couple’s ability to become pregnant and carry a pregnancy to delivery.

What impact does this game changer have, and how can it shape the future of ob-gyn health?
Hear from Marcelle Cedars, MD, FACOG, about the role IVF plays in her patients’ lives and care and the ways in which we can keep improving access to this effective intervention.

As we mark ACOG's 75th year, our Game Changers series will highlight breakthroughs that have reshaped ob-gyn care and explore what they mean for the future of health. Stay tuned—a new game changer will be featured each month!