Half a Century of In Vitro Fertilization

This book offers a historical perspective on the scientific milestones that have brought IVF to its current prominence and explores future directions based on ongoing research. As we approach fifty years of IVF, this book reflects on the journey of a procedure that evolved from modest beginnings to a cornerstone of modern clinical care. Initially, years passed between successful pregnancies, but today, 2-4% of all births globally result from ART procedures. IVF stands out as one of the few medical interventions that effectively addressed the clinical problem it was designed to solve—sterility. Originally intended for women with blocked fallopian tubes, IVF soon revealed its potential to evaluate and manipulate oocytes and embryos, addressing a growing array of clinical needs. This book will benefit professionals in the field of reproductive endocrinology and infertility and OBGYN as well as trainees. It may also be appealing the couples going through IVF treatments and the general public. Readers may find in the book the historical origins of current day practice as well as and updated and future prospects.