IVF Births Growing Rapidly
Since the world’s first IVF baby was born in 1978, assisted reproduction has transformed millions of families’ lives. Today, around one IVF-conceived child is born every 35 seconds, showing how quickly fertility treatments have progressed and gained acceptance.
Millions of Babies Born Through IVF
By 2018, researchers estimated 10 to 13 million IVF births worldwide. Updated figures suggest the number has reached around 17 million by 2024, more than half the population of Australia.
Advances in Technology
Most IVF babies now come from frozen embryos. Improved cryopreservation has boosted success rates while making single-embryo transfers safer. This reduces the risks linked to multiple pregnancies.
Unequal Access Across Countries
Access to IVF is not the same everywhere. High-income countries with public funding and strong regulation see far greater use per capita. In contrast, many low- and middle-income nations face barriers such as high costs and limited infrastructure.
Not a Luxury, But Essential Care
Experts stress that IVF should be seen as an essential medical treatment, not a luxury or a shortcut to boost birth rates. Success also depends heavily on age. For example, women aged 35 have about a 30% chance of live birth per cycle, while by age 42, that chance falls to just 10%.
Looking Ahead
Researchers argue that IVF should be recognized as a basic human right. Equitable access worldwide is key to ensuring fertility care is not a privilege for the few, but a lifeline available to all who need it.
