The International and Local Comprehensive History of IVF Achievements

The history of in vitro fertilization (IVF) goes back more than half a century. In 1959 the first birth in a nonhuman mammal resulting from IVF occurred and in 1978 the world''s first baby conceived by IVF was born. As medicine advanced IVF was transformed from natural research to a stimulated clinical treatment. Reproduction is one of the naturally desired human purposes and is indispensable for the continuation of every society However approximately 8% of couples worldwide and 10% to 15% of those in developed countries have difficulty conceiving. In many societies especially in low and middle-income countries infertility means not only the inability to conceive but also a failure to achieve parenthood and assure the family lineage Thereby it exposes its sufferers to stigmatization social isolation and loss of status. In addition to the psychological stress and anxiety infertility is also responsible for a major cost burden for the patients and the health care system. Thus it represents a common concern to public health professionals and public policymakers. Although assisted reproductive technology has significantly improved the chances of conception.