In vitro fertilization or IVF is the single most effective treatment option for a wide variety of reproductive issues. IVF processes, drugs, and technologies have advanced dramatically over the past 25 years and will continue their dramatic growth in the years ahead. IVF is a process in which an egg (ovum) is combined with sperm outside the body, in a glass petri dish containing a culture medium. After the fertilized egg (zygote) undergoes embryo culture for 2 to 6 days, it is implanted in the woman’s uterus with the intention of establishing a successful pregnancy.
IVF-assisted reproductive technology is used for infertility treatment and gestational surrogacy. The fertilized egg may be implanted into a surrogate’s uterus, and the resulting child will be genetically unrelated to the surrogate. Some countries have banned IVF or otherwise regulated the availability of IVF treatment, giving rise to fertility tourism. Restrictions on the availability of IVF also include costs and age, in order to carry a healthy pregnancy to term.
