In Vitro FertilizationBy Ivette Lebron

IVF is the procedure of joining a man’s sperm and a woman’s egg together in a petri dish. The fertilization process occurs over a four-day period, at which time the new embryo is transplanted into the woman uterus.

What is in Vitro Fertilization (IVF)?

IVF Video

Early IVF experiments began as early at 1878 with the use of rabbits

Robert Edwards and Patrick Steptoe, a gynecologist, began IVF in humans in Britain in the 1970s

In 1977, the two, successfully implanted Lesley Brown with a fertilized egg.

Brief History of In-Vitro Fertilization

On July 25, 1978 the first test tube baby was born

Louise Brown

In-Vitro Fertilization is in most cases preformed in the following situations:

•Damaged fallopian tubes •Ovulation disorders • Male factors, such as low sperm count or poor-quality sperm

Why In-Vitro Fertilization?

1.2 million American women in 2002 considered IVF

6 million American women have undergone infertility treatment in their life.

IVF treatment represents 5% of over infertility treatments in America

Fertility drugs, surgery, and artificial insemination are usually attempted before IVF

Most women using IVF treatment suffer from blocked or damaged fallopian tubes

Who’s using IVF?

Blocked or Damaged Fallopian

Benefits of IVF Creates more families Infertile couples now have a greater chance to become pregnant

Scientists are able to study fertilization and early embryonic development in an environment outside a woman’s body. Giving a greater understanding to the reasons behind birth defects

$Cost for IVF$

Health risk a multiple pregnancy can bring to both woman and babies

The IVF procedure can cause an abnormal pregnancy

Babies born through IVF are 30% more likely to be born with birth defects

In-Vitro Fertilization Health Risk

A major social issue involved with In- Vitro fertilization is the lack of regulation The Social Impact of in regard to the process of surrogates.

In the 1980’s a surrogate mother tried to keep the baby she had carried through pregnancy.

Another social issue is associated with in-vitro is the possibility of stem cells.

The Social Impact of In-Vitro Fertilization