The Scientific Miracle of IVF!

I have always been asked where my passion for science comes from. For many people I would assume, it's the illness of a family member or some other scientific experience they had when they were young, but for me it starts at the very beginning with my conception. Okay, okay I know how that sounds, but I'm the product of an unconventional conception. While my friends had tales of the birds and the bees, my parents had a different story to tell - one involving petri dishes, lab coats, and a dash of scientific magic. Yes, my entrance into this world was orchestrated with the help of a brilliant scientific technique called IVF. So what exactly is that?

IVF stands for In Vitro Fertilization. It is a complex assisted reproductive technology that involves combining an egg and sperm outside of the body in a laboratory setting, and then transferring the resulting embryo back into the uterus for implantation and pregnancy. IVF is a complicated process that requires the help of many medical professionals to maximize its success rates. IVF is made up of several steps: ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, sperm collection, fertilization, embryo development, embryo transfer, and implantation and pregnancy. 

Potential IVF Cycle Timeline (CNY Fertility)

So why are there so many steps and why are they each crucial to the IVF process? Well, ovarian stimulation increases the number of mature eggs that can be retrieved, which increases the probability of a live birth. While the medication given to stimulate the ovaries (estrogen and progesterone) can create complications such as hyper-stimulation, IVF patients are closely monitored by doctors and fertility specialists to ensure their safety. Egg retrieval requires a small surgical procedure to collect the mature eggs that will be fertilized. The sperm sample that is going to be used is typically collected on the same day, either through a partner or a donor. There are two types of fertilization that can be used during IVF: Conventional IVF Fertilization (when the sperm fertilizes the egg naturally when they are combined in a petri dish) and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI).

Egg being fertilized in a petri dish! (CNY Fertility)

After fertilization the embryo is placed inside an incubator (to act as an artificial fallopian tube) for up to 7 days. Embryos are screened for quality and growing potential. The embryos can be frozen at this point to be implanted later or they can be implanted "freshly." It's important to note that not all embryos will successfully implant and result in a pregnancy. Some embryos may fail to develop or may be discarded due to abnormalities. Additionally, there is a possibility of multiple pregnancies (e.g., twins or triplets) if more than one embryo is transferred. Fun fact, my mom had three embryos transferred but I was the only one that stuck; I could have been a triplet, so cool!

Chances of multiples because of IVF (Remembryo)

So when did this process first become possible and what could the future look like for it? Well the first "test-tube" baby was born on July 25, 1978 in northwest England. At first the success rates for IVF were in the single digits but now those rates are nearly 50. So clearly IVF has improved so much since it's beginnings but where could it go from here? In several countries that picture includes genetic engineering which has to do with modifying DNA for specific traits. It is standard procedure to test an embryo created via IVF for genetic diseases that could alter or inhibit life, but where does one draw the line. Chinese scientist successfully modified the first human embryo which led to several large bioethical discussions. Is it morally right to alter human embryos for traits such as athleticism or intelligence? The jury is still out!

Model of modifying DNA (Engineers Network)

As a kid, I loved explaining that I was a scientific miracle. Of, course being a child of IVF had its quirks. I'd jokingly claim that I was the "chosen one," the result of a clandestine experiment to create the world's most charming and hilarious individual. And, of course, I took every opportunity to tease my mom, saying things like, "You had to go through all that trouble just to have me? Was I really worth all that?!"

People would wonder if I had inherited any superpowers or if my DNA was somehow imbued with scientific brilliance. Alas, (as far as you know ;) ) no mutant abilities or extraordinary knowledge were bestowed upon me, much to my disappointment. But hey, I do have a unique story to tell, and that's worth something!

But beyond the silliness, being a child of IVF taught me some valuable lessons. It showed me the power of innovation, how dedicated professionals can turn dreams into reality. It taught me to appreciate the lengths people are willing to go to for the chance to experience the joy of parenthood. And most importantly, it instilled me in a sense of wonder for science.

So, dear readers, if you ever find yourself curious about the science behind IVF or if you encounter a child like me with a tale to tell, approach it with an open mind and a willingness to embrace the wonder of scientific miracles. After all, in this vast and intricate universe, anything is possible - even the birth of a child who sees the humor in their own scientific origins.