IVF success rates are climbing. Find out what advancements and treatments are paving the way for aspiring parents with these latest statistics.

Since its inception in 1978, In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) has brought over 8 million babies worldwide into the world.

According to Dr. David Adamson, founder, chairman, and CEO of ARC® Fertility. "This remarkable milestone highlights the significant advances in reproductive medicine and the hope IVF brings to couples facing infertility."

IVF offers an avenue to parenthood for those struggling with natural conception obstacles.

Read these statistics for insight into the medical advancements of IVF, what to consider and what it means for the fertility industry.

Key IVF statistics

  • Annually, over 2.5 million cycles of global IVF treatments have been conducted, with more than 500,000 deliveries achieved.7
  • IVF is projected to account for approximately 19% of all twin births and roughly 25% of triplet births.2
  • Although the average success rate of IVF worldwide is 35%, many clinics report a lab success rate exceeding 90%. The assessment of such rates considers factors like live birth, pregnancy, and implantation.7
  • It is estimated that around 10% to 15% of couples will face difficulties in conceiving a child.2
  • Among infertile patients, the risk of birth defects is slightly higher than in the general population, which typically ranges from 2% to 3%.7
  • The chance of experiencing a miscarriage after IVF is comparable to that of conceiving naturally, and it increases as the mother's age progresses. Women in their 20s may have a rate as low as 15%, while those in their 40s might experience rates exceeding 50%.7
  • During the forecast period of 2024-2029, the IVF Market is predicted to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.20%, resulting in an estimated size of $26.47 billion in 2024 and reaching up to $38.52 billion by 2029.8
  • Fertility IQ reports that an average IVF cycle in the U.S. usually exceeds $20,000. As patients commonly require two rounds of treatment, IVF can cost between $40,000 and $60,000 in total.10
  • Although the Australian government provides boundless financial assistance for individuals experiencing infertility via IVF cycles, those who qualify for Medicare subsidies still typically face out-of-pocket expenses ranging from AUD$5,000 to AUD$6,000 per cycle.11
  • Stress, depression, and anxiety were identified among over 80% scoring above 16 on the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). This score range implies that they are susceptible to experiencing clinical depression.12

Different types of IVF treatment statistics

Were you aware that almost 2 million cycles of IVF treatment are conducted worldwide annually? IVF is not a universal method; several types are customised to cater to diverse individual patient requirements.

Dr. Helle Sejersen Myrthue, CEO of Cryos International, says, "From conventional IVF to advanced methods like Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) and Natural Cycle IVF, each approach offers distinct benefits to address various fertility challenges."

The approaches range from conventional methods, such as Natural Cycle IVF and ICSI, each holding distinctive advantages. This is interesting, considering what these various procedures offer individuals on a journey to parenthood.

  • In 2021, licensed fertility clinics in the U.K. conducted nearly 76,000 fresh and frozen embryo transfer IVF cycles and over 7,000 donor insemination (DI) cycles for approximately 55,000 patients.1
  • There was a 9% increase in IVF cycles (including fresh and frozen embryo transfers) from almost 70,000 in 2019 to 76,000 cycles recorded for 2021.1
  • There was an upsurge of DI cycles by around 22%, from approximately 6,000 in 2019 to 7,000 cycles by the end of 2021.1
  • In 2021, the success rate of fresh embryo transfers in IVF pregnancies for patients between 18 and 34 was approximately 41% per transferred embryo. In contrast, patients aged between 43 and 50 using their own eggs experienced a significantly lower pregnancy rate, at only around 6%.1

According to the CDC's Fertility Clinic Success Rates Report for 2021, 238,126 patients underwent 413,776 ART cycles at 453 clinics across the U.S. These treatments resulted in a number of successful outcomes: specifically, over 91,000 live births (with one or more living infants) and almost 97,000 live-born babies in total.

Out of 413,776 ART cycles in 2021, approximately 167,689 were centred on egg or embryo banking. These procedures involved freezing all eggs and embryos produced for future purposes.2

  • The use of ART has doubled in the past decade.2
  • ART is used to conceive around 2.3% of all infants born annually in the U.S.2
  • The significance of restoring normal pelvic anatomy for a natural pregnancy is shown by the increase in pregnancy rates from 4.7% to 30.7% through laparoscopic surgery. However, the IVF success rate among women with endometriosis compared to other infertility causes is unusually low, and inferior outcomes are related to more advanced diseases in such cases.2
  • Successful fertilisation is attained in approximately 50-80% of cases through Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) treatment.3
  • During a natural menstrual cycle, one egg is collected from your ovary in Natural Cycle IVF, which includes either conventional or ICSI-assisted IVF procedures.5
  • The success rate per cycle is approximately 7%. The procedure depends on the natural development of a solitary follicle, which increases the chances of unplanned ovulation before egg retrieval. Furthermore, the single retrieved egg needs to be more adequate in quality or consistently obtained during incubation, leading to failed fertilisation attempts.5

Natural cycle IVF, also referred to as Natural IVF, offers an attractive alternative due to its lack of hormonal stimulation. Avoiding medication expenses and associated adverse effects while preventing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).

It is especially appealing for women with personal moral or religious reservations about conventional fertility treatment; nevertheless, the success rate tends to be lower than standard IVF options - rendering it somewhat less favourable globally.

However, this process may still benefit those individuals who cannot endure traditional treatments requiring pharmaceutical support or possess specific medical conditions. As success rates remain limited, it may not be the ideal option for every woman; however, it could be suitable as an assisted treatment method in some instances.

Dr. Richard Paulson, former president of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, states, "Natural IVF can be a good option for women who are looking to avoid the risks and costs associated with fertility drugs, but it is important to understand that the success rates are lower than with conventional IVF."

  • Following natural IVF, administering mildly stimulating drugs, which decrease the likelihood of undesirable side effects. The goal is to retrieve anywhere from two to seven eggs; meanwhile, conventional IVF typically aims for a minimum of eight eggs while prioritising safety.5
  • Mild IVF is appropriate for women with low, normal, or high ovarian reserves. It emphasises egg quality over quantity. Due to the mild use of stimulating drugs introduced later in the process, mild IVF has slightly better success rates than natural cycle IVF.5

Addressing the needs of those experiencing infertility, IVF treatments have branched out. Various types, including conventional IVF, natural cycle IVF, and minimal stimulation IVF, offer exclusive advantages tailored to specific situations and needs.

Natural cycle IVF, as explained by Dr. Jane Frederick, a reproductive endocrinologist at HRC Fertility, "avoids or minimises the use of medications, retrieving the single egg produced naturally each month. This method is beneficial for women who are sensitive to fertility drugs or prefer a more natural approach, though its success rates are generally lower than conventional IVF."

Furthermore, founder of CNY Fertility, Dr. Robert Kiltz adds, "Minimal stimulation IVF, or mini-IVF, uses lower doses of fertility drugs to produce fewer but high-quality eggs. This approach reduces medication side effects and costs while maintaining reasonable success rates, offering a middle ground between conventional and natural IVF."

These opinions show the significance of customising IVF treatment according to individuals' or couples' particular needs and situations. Selecting a suitable treatment approach should be based on their medical backgrounds, individual choices, and financial constraints.

Success rates and factors affecting IVF success statistics

Between 1980 and 2015, the number of twins and triplets conceived increased. IVF accounted for approximately 19% of all twin births and roughly 25% of triplet births.2

This is interesting, considering the increase in IVF treatments directly correlates with the rise in twin and triplet births, as multiple embryos are often implanted to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.

Another contributing factor is women's tendency to have children later in life. Advanced maternal age is associated with a higher likelihood of multiple births, even without the use of ART.

Women over 30 are likelier to release more than one egg during ovulation, leading to a higher probability of conceiving twins or triplets.

Dr. Emily Thompson, a leading obstetrician and gynaecologist at the Mayo Clinic, explains, "The increase in twin and triplet births can largely be attributed to the advancements and accessibility of reproductive technologies like IVF. These treatments have revolutionised the field of reproductive medicine, providing hope to many couples struggling with infertility."

Live births rates per intended egg retrieval by age group in 2018

Age Group Live Births Singleton (% of live births) Twins (% of live births) Triplets (% of live births)
Women < 35 years 47.6% 89.4% 10.4% 0.2%
35-37 years 30.7% 90.3% 9.5% 0.2%
38-40 years 21.7% 90.9% 8.9% 0.1%
41-42 years 10.4% 93.6% 6.3% 0.2%
> 42 years 3.1% 94.9% 5.1% 0%

The effects of age on the functionality and fertilisation potential of oocytes (immature egg cells that develop into mature eggs found in the ovaries of females) cannot be countered by IVF, leading women over 30 to opt for donor oocytes sourced from younger individuals below this benchmark. These fresh or frozen eggs are procured from a woman in her 20s and either preserved or employed immediately within an IVF procedure.2

  • Annually, over 2.5 million cycles of global IVF treatments have been conducted, with more than 500,000 deliveries achieved.7
  • In 20% of couples, inadequate semen quality is the exclusive reason for infertility, while it also plays a role in fertility problems in an additional 20%.2
  • Around 50% of men with reduced sperm count, motility, or abnormal morphology (the shape and appearance of sperm or embryos) can be treated through medical interventions or surgical procedures.2
  • It is estimated that around 10% to 15% of couples will face difficulties in conceiving a child.2
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is the leading cause of tubal damage, which affects approximately 25% to 35% of infertile women.2
  • In 2022, the clinical pregnancy attainment rate (visible at ultrasound scan between weeks eight and twelve) per embryo transfer for IVF and ICSI cycles was 41.9% across all age groups. However, focusing solely on Day 5 excellent or top-quality embryos reveals a success rate of 52.6%.4
  • Opting for Day 3 transfers despite varying quality for patients with a single embryo is advisable. In 2022, the success rates of these embryos stood at 25.8%.4
  • Sometimes, on Day 5, embryos may have yet to reach optimal quality. However, if they are still showing signs of development, patients can choose to proceed with their transfer. The success rate for fair grade Day 5 embryos was 29% in 2022.4
  • Patients often have viable embryos that can be frozen, increasing their likelihood of success. In 2022, the rate for transferring frozen embryos was recorded at 52.9%. This is mainly because only high-quality and top-performing embryos are selected for freezing.4
  • Although the average success rate of IVF worldwide is 35%, many clinics publicise a lab success rate exceeding 90%. The assessment of such rates considers factors like live birth, pregnancy, and implantation.4
Case Study

Gaudium Miracle Baby Case Study

The baby, known as the Gaudium Miracle Baby, was born following a successful attempt at Gaudium after 15 unsuccessful IVF cycles (with one in the U.K. and 14 in India).

Saphla Rani Bhatia, aged 55, had previously undergone numerous unsuccessful fertility treatments at well-known clinics in India and abroad. Her inability to conceive naturally was due to her severe Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). However, Saphla sought treatment from Gaudium IVF Delhi, where she received a unique protocol for treating PCOS and poor endometrial receptivity.

She had suffered disruptions in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) ratios as a result of the ailment that persisted over several years. To address this issue comprehensively, an individualized protocol involving an endometrial scratch procedure was conducted with the application of embryo glue instillation about two days before transferring embryos during subsequent trials.

These initiatives significantly boosted endometrial receptiveness because despite having excellent embryos, efforts resulted in multiple failures when implanted earlier. In addition to these measures employed by Gaudium's specialists who treated high blood pressure & sugar levels while restoring hormonal imbalances via hormone therapy finally led Mrs. Bhatia to conceive successfully through IVF, giving birth later delivering a healthy baby boy eventually after facing previous challenges trying unsuccessfully many times before 2014.

The success rates of IVF are affected by age, in which younger women often have a greater likelihood of success. Evaluating and judging embryo quality- including aspects such as genetic health, cell division rate - is also integral to improving results. The use of sophisticated technologies in fertility clinics, like customised incubators for optimised development settings, supports embryonic growth positively.

According to a comprehensive review by IVF Discovery, high-quality embryos have a better chance of implanting and developing into a healthy pregnancy. These embryos are evaluated based on cell division, shape, and genetic health, and selecting the best quality embryos can significantly enhance success rates.

An individual's past medical experiences and overall wellness status contribute to increasing the chances of fertilisation and successful completion of IVF outcomes analysis.

Dr. Michael Johnson from IVF Turkey also notes that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential. This includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Stress management and ensuring adequate sleep are also recommended to improve the chances of success.

Many factors are considered when evaluating IVF’s chances at success, and this may seem daunting. However, extensive research and technological advancements show that different treatments are available for women based on their needs.

The risks and side effects of IVF statistics

To minimise the risk of multiple pregnancies, doctors should transfer only the minimum number of embryos needed to ensure a high chance of conception. Remember, their associated risks increase as more embryos are transferred into the uterus.7

It is crucial to transfer the minimum number of embryos during IVF, according to Dr. James Smith, who specialises in fertility at UCSF Center for Reproductive Health. He explains, "Transferring a single high-quality embryo not only reduces the likelihood of twins or triplets but also decreases the associated risks such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and complications like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia."

According to Dr. Smith, modern fertility clinics have made a shift towards prioritising techniques like elective single embryo transfer (eSET - choosing to transfer only one healthy embryo) and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT - taking a small sample from the embryos and testing them for genetic abnormalities or specific genetic conditions). This guarantees the selection of the healthiest embryo for transfer, increasing the probability of a successful pregnancy with minimal maternal or foetal complications.

  • Among infertile patients, the risk of birth defects is slightly higher than in the general population, which typically ranges from 2% to 3%.7
  • Initial research on ICSI revealed a slight rise in the risk of birth defects, but this is comparable to that of traditional IVF. Both methods pose only marginally higher risks than natural pregnancies, which carry a 1.5-3% chance of such anomalies occurring.3
  • OHSS seldom results in blood clots and kidney failure, occurring in less than 1% of women undergoing egg retrieval for IVF.7
  • The chance of experiencing a miscarriage after IVF is comparable to that of conceiving naturally, and it increases as the mother's age progresses. Women in their 20s may have a rate as low as 15%, while those in their 40s might experience rates exceeding 50%.7
  • Although there is a small chance (1%) of experiencing an ectopic pregnancy during IVF, it's comparable to the risk faced by women who have had difficulties conceiving in the past.7
  • IVF carries a 1% chance of heterotopic pregnancy (when a woman has two pregnancies at the same time).7
  • Twins are seven times more likely to experience neonatal death.13

"While IVF is a widely practised and generally safe procedure, it has risks. The primary risks associated with IVF include OHSS, multiple pregnancies, and potential complications from egg retrieval, such as bleeding, infection, or damage to the bowel or bladder. Additionally, there may be an increased risk of birth defects and genetic disorders. Patients must discuss these risks thoroughly with their fertility specialist to make informed decisions." - Dr. Emily Anderson, Reproductive Endocrinologist

IVF financial considerations and market growth statistics

Did you know the worldwide IVF industry is expected to hit a whopping $38.52 billion by 2029?8 This highlights the increasingly prevalent need and dependence on assisted reproductive technologies. When going through IVF, couples often face financial concerns along with their emotional journey.

To help prospective parents better understand the expenses, insurance options, and potential monetary aid available for IVF treatment, we examine the financial landscape in depth —from market growth to cost factors and tactics that could make achieving parenthood more financially attainable.

  • During the forecast period of 2024-2029, the IVF Market is predicted to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.20%, resulting in an estimated size of $26.47 billion in 2024 and reaching up to $38.52 billion by 2029.8
  • According to predictions, the IVF cryopreservation market will be worth an estimated $461.4 million in 2023 and is expected to experience a growth upsurge, reaching $1,264.9 million by 2033. The projected CAGR throughout the forecast period is around 10.6%.9
  • During the forecast period, the cryopreservation equipment market for IVF is expected to reach $2.3 billion in 2023 and increase to $3.36 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of approximately 6.8%.9

"In fact, the market growth is being propelled by the increasing popularity of genetic testing and the trend toward postponing parenthood. IVF procedures need to be dealt with utmost care," says Dr. David Sable, a reproductive endocrinologist and life sciences portfolio manager.

According to Dr. Sable, the increased usage of genetic testing, including PGT, enhances embryo selection, thereby improving success rates in IVF and boosting market growth. Moreover, as there is a societal trend towards delayed parenthood, meticulous handling of these procedures becomes essential for ensuring their safety and effectiveness due to rising demand for IVF services.

  • During the projection period, the IVF cell freezing media market is expected to increase to $736.62 million by 2023 and reach a value of $1,111.53 million by 2033 with an estimated CAGR of 4.2%.9
  • The IVF and fertility clinics are anticipated to achieve a CAGR of 9.9% by 2033.9
  • Cryopreservation IVF services have flourished in the U.S. as it has emerged as one of the most prominent markets for this industry. Experts predict that with a projected CAGR growth rate of 11.2%, its value will reach $182.7 million by 2033, indicating further prosperity.9
  • During the forecast period, Germany is anticipated to emerge as one of Europe's fastest-growing markets for cryopreservation IVF services and hold a substantial market share. The estimated CAGR stands at 11.6%, with a projected value of $54.8 million by 2033.9
  • By 2033, the U.K. is expected to achieve a valuation of $37 million while capturing an impressive CAGR of 11.0%, contributing significantly to the growth of the global market.9
  • The IVF equipment and supplies market share is anticipated to rise to $1.58 billion between 2021 and 2026, with growth momentum accelerating at an annual CAGR of 6.7%.10
  • North America will account for 37% of the market's growth during the forecast period.10
  • Fertility IQ reports that an average IVF cycle in the U.S. usually exceeds $20,000. As patients commonly require two rounds of treatment, IVF can cost between $40,000 and $60,000 in total.10
  • From 2021 to 2026, the market share of infertility device treatment is anticipated to rise by $722.40 million, with a projected growth momentum accelerating at a CAGR of 7.75%.10
  • The Australian ART treatments market was anticipated to make a revenue of AUD$700 million in 2023, a sign of a thriving state.11
  • Although the Australian government provides boundless financial assistance for individuals experiencing infertility via IVF cycles, those who qualify for Medicare subsidies still typically face out-of-pocket expenses ranging from AUD$5,000 to AUD$6,000 per cycle.11
  • The average Australian family is reducing in size yearly as the birth rate has declined to 1.63 children per woman.11

This is interesting, considering that this decrease is primarily due to financial strains, a surge in women's enrollment and engagement in higher learning and professional careers, and a tendency to delay starting families.

Dr. Raelia Lew, a leading fertility specialist, points out that couples often delay childbearing until their late 30s or early 40s, making it more challenging to have larger families. This delay, combined with the rising cost of living and housing, significantly impacts fertility rates in Australia.

The psychological aspects of IVF statistics

Around 10-15% of couples globally are affected by infertility, and for those seeking parenthood, IVF presents a hopeful option. However, the road to conception through IVF can come with various psychological hurdles.

Individuals or couples go through a complicated journey filled with hopelessness, anxiety as well as stress. It is important to comprehend this aspect while fully delivering holistic care and support for patients undergoing these procedures.

The following statistics show the mental & emotional encounters linked with IVF, bringing prompt attention toward managing wellness at every step along the way.

  • Stress, depression, and anxiety were identified among over 80% scoring above 16 on the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). This score range implies that they are susceptible to experiencing clinical depression.12
  • Infertile patients often experience anxiety, depression, and stress as the most common psychological disorders.12
  • Chronic stress can cause sensitization of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis, which can potentially affect fertility and trigger a vicious cycle of stress, anxiety, and depression. HPA is essential in managing our response to stressful situations, which could affect neuroendocrine functions.12

Dr. Joanna Mikulska from the Medical University of Lublin explains that increased HPA axis activity during chronic stress plays a key role in the pathophysiology of depression, indicating that chronic stress can lead to overactivity of the HPA axis, affecting neuroendocrine functions and mental health when it comes to IVF.

  • While many women appear to adapt adequately to failed IVF, up to 25% of them experience depression at clinically significant levels.13
  • Women who were unable to conceive through IVF treatment three years later reported lower life satisfaction levels but did not exhibit more significant distress compared to those who succeeded in conception via IVF.13
Case Study

Reproductive Medicine Center Case Study

The Reproductive Medicine Center of a tertiary hospital in China conducted a study. Their objective was to explore the links between depression and anxiety symptoms in a network, as well as track any alterations in the network's symptom connections and centralities over time for women who are undergoing embryo transfer through IVF.

The outcome showed during the first stage of treatment that "inability to control worry" and "worrying too much" were the most prominent symptoms in strength centrality; however, these underwent a decrease. On the other hand, the significance of "sadness" and "guilt" showed a tendency toward steady growth becoming dominant signs.

From the first stage to the last stage of treatment included multiple emotional shifts such as “irritability,” “concentration difficulties,” “nervousness,” and ”restlessness”. Increased indications also emerged for guilt. Additionally, the change indicated that with time, 'suicide ideation' became more closely associated with guilt instead of worrying excessively or being overwhelmed.

The results showed that women receiving IVF-ET treatment often experience different levels of psychological distress throughout the course. Previous research has primarily relied on overall scores and diagnostic criteria to assess symptom severity, which could impede efforts to study and refine treatments for these issues.

It is enlightening how the psychological aspects of IVF are significant and can profoundly impact the mental well-being of individuals and couples undergoing this treatment.

Dr. Leah C. Susser, a reproductive psychiatrist at Weill Cornell Medicine, says that the stress and emotional toll of IVF can lead to higher rates of anxiety and depression compared to the general population. The pressure of timed interventions, the anticipation of results, and the highs and lows of the journey can contribute to mental health challenges​.

Despite over 2.5 million IVF cycles are carried out globally annually, making it a crucial solution for infertility.[6] However, this extensive use has resulted in pressing ethical and legal inquiries that require attention. From analysing embryo rights to the intricacies of genetic testing, careful evaluation is necessary to promote responsible reproductive techniques.

These figures reflect significant moral and judicial concerns surrounding IVF, and a brief overview provided here can help experts and laypeople gain insight into its challenges.

Women in their upper-middle age who conceive a child through IVF often face public scrutiny for being deemed as "unfit," "unnatural," and even "repulsive." The following table provides an overview of the main arguments supporting or opposing an established maximum age limit for using IVF among older women. In media discussions, this limit is typically discussed within the range of ages 40 to 50 years old.

Four common arguments supporting and four arguments against an upper maternal age limit for IVF

Four common arguments supporting and four arguments against an upper maternal age limit for IVF

  • According to a 2014 study on legislative policies across the European Union's 28 countries, medically assisted reproduction (including IVF) for single women was authorised in 11 nations and banned in another 11. Conversely, the legal standing of this procedure remained uncertain among the remaining six countries.14
  • Social oocyte cryopreservation is not nationally regulated in most countries, but Israel is an exception. The country has established regulations and publicly supports the procedure, citing the promotion of individual autonomy as its primary justification.14
  • In assessing social egg freezing, the Swedish Council on Medical Ethics considered the health risks of postponing motherhood and individuals' right to reproductive self-determination. While no compelling moral justification was found for prohibiting such practices, the council's final verdict deemed public resources inappropriate for covering related expenses.14
  • The Human Fertilization and Embryology Authority stresses that in the U.K., where egg sharing is permitted as compensation for treatment, it's crucial to ensure that no undue pressure is placed on women who share their eggs.14

IVF by religion and cultural tradition

IVF by religion and cultural tradition


IVF encounters the most prevalent principle resistance from natural law theory, which asserts that "reason recognizes intrinsic goods persons seek for human fulfilment."

In fact, Dr. John Haas, President Emeritus of the National Catholic Bioethics Center​, has discussed the resistance to IVF from the perspective of natural law theory. He explains, "Natural law theory asserts that reason recognizes intrinsic goods that persons seek for human fulfillment, remains a cornerstone of Catholic teaching. Saint Thomas Aquinas emphasized that observing what individuals instinctively pursue can logically determine what is considered good. This principle, deeply rooted in Aquinas' teachings, continues to influence the Catholic Church's stance on IVF, viewing it as contrary to the natural order of human procreation."

Technological advancements for IVF statistics

By the end of 2023, the global success rate of IVF had soared from 10% in the early 1980s to about 40%.15 This progress owes largely to innovative technology that has changed assisted reproduction.

Advancements such as preimplantation genetic testing procedures, time-lapse imaging methods for embryos, and cryopreservation techniques have significantly improved accuracy rates, making fertility treatments safer and more accessible overall.

  • Frozen embryo transfers have shown significant enhancements in live birth rates compared to fresh transfers. In the past ten years, there has been a 50% improvement in the live birth rate per frozen embryo transfer from 20% in 2010 to an impressive record of 30% at present (in 2019). Conversely, during this period, following fresh transfers resulted in only a slight upsurge from its initial value of 24%, which currently stands at around 25%.16
  • The multiple birth rate, the proportion of twins and triplets born through IVF, has declined in Australia and New Zealand. In 2019, it dropped to one of the lowest rates worldwide, at only 2.9%. This positive change is due to an increase in single embryo transfers during IVF cycles, which rose from 70% back in 2010 to around 92% today.16
  • Out of 88,929 ART cycles initiated in New Zealand, there were 16,310 instances where live births occurred.16

The segment's growth is supported by a surge in IVF centres and technological advancements worldwide to enhance ART services. One such example occurred in August 2022 when the Rejuvenating Fertility Center (RFC) unveiled Injection-Free IVF or Needle-Free IVF practices.

By administering oral and nasal fertility drugs to prompt ovary stimulation during the IVF process, this non-traditional holistic approach leads to multiple eggs with improved quality without using needles. The rising popularity of needleless IVF treatment due to these innovations is expected to increase demand for it even more significantly.8

These are the latest technological advancements for IVF treatments:

  • Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) can screen embryos for genetic abnormalities prior to implantation. This has enhanced the success rates of IVF by facilitating the selection process that leads to healthy embryos. PGT is applied to detect chromosomal problems (PGT-A) and single-gene disorders (PGT-M), heightening the probability of a triumphant pregnancy.17
  • The innovative practice of Time-lapse Embryo Imaging permits constant observation of the evolving embryos, eliminating the need for them to be extracted from an incubator. Imaging allows embryologists with a meticulous look on growth patterns and developmental milestones, facilitating apt selection for IVF treatments and leading to enhanced success rates.17
  • Predictive Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in IVF treatment is being transformed through AI’s ability to analyse large quantities of patient data, optimising current plans. With AI algorithms, informed decisions can be made on embryo selection or process scheduling to adjust treatments better.17
  • Using vitrification in cryopreservation has led to improved success rates for freezing eggs and embryos, enabling patients to preserve their fertility for later purposes. With advancements in genetic banking technology, the ability to store genetic material has proven advantageous specifically for individuals undergoing treatments that could potentially impact their reproductive health. 17
  • Recent developments in sperm selection technology aim to improve IVF success rates by identifying and utilising the healthiest sperms. These techniques prioritise selecting the most viable candidate, which enhances fertilisation and ensures healthy embryo growth with greater certainty.18

IVF technology has made remarkable progress, enhancing the possibility of conception for couples who encounter fertility complications.

According to Dr. Eric Widra, Chief Medical Officer at Shady Grove Fertility, vitrification- a rapid-freezing technique- is among the most notable breakthroughs in assisted reproductive technology within the past ten years. Vitrification notably betters frozen embryo transfer (FET) success rates, bringing them up to par and exceeding that of fresh transfers, thus simplifying treatment procedures and significantly reducing costs by nullifying recurring egg retrieval surgeries necessary in previous methods.

It’s intriguing to note that integrating AI and machine learning (ML) into IVF is changing the industry. These advancements use patient data analysis to offer custom treatment solutions. Continuous embryo monitoring through time-lapse imaging also makes selecting viable embryos more precise, further augmenting success rates.

Book a free consultation with us if you’re interested in fertility analysis and helpful treatments.

Frequently asked questions

Q1. Do insurance or health plans cover infertility treatments?

To determine the services covered, consider your location and insurance plan. You should consult with your insurer directly for further clarification on coverage details.19

Q2. What impact does infertility have on psychological well-being?

The inability to conceive often leads to a grave life crisis for couples. Infertility causes immense feelings of loss, which can be long-lasting and painful. Most couples are tormented by the persistent uncertainties surrounding infertility, leading them into emotional turmoil while coping with various medical decisions.

The struggle may cause anxiety, depression, and emotions like helplessness or loneliness, among many other things- making it overwhelming for most people going through this ordeal alone.19

Q3. What if my eggs don’t fertilise?

Suppose there is a shortage of viable sperm for this effective method. In that case, it may be necessary to perform an alternative approach called ICSI. In rare cases when neither IVF nor ICSI results in successful fertilisation due to issues with either the eggs or the sperms involved (or both), donor options can often help totalize conception success rates.

Your fertility specialist and laboratory experts will guide you on which option works most adequately for your specific case during consultation sessions concerning these procedures' intricacies.19

Q4. Do I have options should I choose not to use my embryos?

If you have embryos stored and choose not to transfer them for pregnancy, there are four options for their ultimate fate. Firstly, you can opt for anonymous embryo donation, where the donated cells will be used by a woman with fertility complications whom you do not know. 

Secondly, directed embryo donation allows your known recipient to attempt pregnancy using these same donated cells. 

Thirdly, donating embryos to laboratory research endeavours could aid in boosting infertility rates among couples in future generations. Finally - an option that disregards any potential births is requesting your frozen cellular material undergo thawing followed by disposal entirely as waste matter or remnant samples without transferring into another person's womb, rendering no offspring created from this process whatsoever.19

Q5. What is third-party reproduction?

To successfully achieve a pregnancy, the male and female couple desiring parenthood are the initial two parties involved. The critical components for achieving this goal include a healthy uterus, egg, and sperm. However, these three crucial factors must be included or made available. 

In that case, seeking assistance from another individual beyond the couple may be necessary, otherwise referred to as third-party reproduction. This could entail utilising an egg donor, sperm donor, or gestational carrier by couples intending on becoming parents but unable to do so naturally without such external support mechanisms in place.19

Sources

  1. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority
  2. National Center for Biotechnology Information
  3. IVI
  4. Merrion Fertility
  5. Zita West Clinic
  6. Esco Medical
  7. American Society for Reproductive Medicine
  8. Mordor Intelligence
  9. Future Market Insights
  10. Technavio
  11. 360
  12. The National Center for Biotechnology Information
  13. Erasmus University Rotterdam
  14. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
  15. BBC
  16. UNSW Sydney
  17. IVF Turkey
  18. ScienceDaily
  19. American Society for Reproductive Medicine