Home » IVF » Page 3
Tag:

IVF

Health

Understanding IVF: How It Increases the Probability of Having a Baby Boy

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health



IVF Procedures Show Tendency Toward Male Births, Study Suggests

IVF laboratory setting
Conception within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) takes place in a carefully controlled laboratory environment.

London – Groundbreaking research indicates that In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatments may inadvertently increase the probability of having a boy, and scientists are now pinpointing the reasons why. The study, presented at New Scientist Live, reveals that the standard practice of selecting embryos for transfer is unintentionally biased towards male embryos.

How Embryo Selection Impacts Sex Ratio

The cornerstone of IVF involves fertilizing eggs with sperm in a laboratory setting, creating multiple embryos. Fertility specialists then evaluate these embryos,choosing the one deemed healthiest for implantation in the woman’s womb. recent findings suggest this selection process isn’t as objective as once believed.

Dr. Helen O’Neill, a Leading Fertility Specialist at University College London, explains, “When you equate faster growth with better quality, you inadvertently favor male embryos over female ones.” Male embryos, it appears, exhibit a slightly quicker advancement rate in the initial days following conception. This subtle difference is enough to influence the subjective assessments of medical professionals.

Data supports this claim. Some studies have shown that roughly 56 percent of babies born through fertility treatments are male,a noticeable increase compared to the natural population ratio. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, the male-to-female birth ratio in the United States in 2023 was approximately 51.2% male to 48.8% female.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in IVF

Traditionally, doctors assessed embryo quality by visually inspecting them under a microscope. Increasingly, however, clinics are incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems that analyze time-lapse videos of embryo development to assign quality scores.

Researchers examined whether AI systems mirrored this inherent bias. Their Analysis, covering 1,300 embryos with known sex, showed that Doctors rated 69% of male embryos as good quality, compared to 57% of female embryos. an AI Program, KIDScore D3, demonstrated a similar inclination towards male embryos, assigning them an average quality score of 4.18 versus 4.02 for female embryos. However, Vitrolife Group, the maker of KIDScore D3, has disputed these findings.

Interestingly, another AI system, Chloe EQ, designed to predict successful births, showed no significant bias in embryo selection. Dr. O’Neill posits this is as Chloe EQ is trained to identify characteristics associated with successful implantation, rather than solely prioritizing rapid development.

AI grading systems compared:

System Male Embryo Quality Rating (Percentage) Female Embryo Quality Rating (Percentage)
Doctors 69% 57%
KIDScore D3 4.18 (Average Score) 4.02 (Average Score)
Chloe EQ Comparable Comparable

Did You No? Female embryos require deactivating one of their X chromosomes, a process that consumes energy and may slightly slow down their initial development compared to male embryos.

It’s vital to note that sex selection during IVF is prohibited in the United Kingdom, except in cases where parents carry a genetic condition linked to a specific sex.

Understanding IVF and its Advancements

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) has revolutionized reproductive medicine, offering hope to millions struggling with infertility. Since the birth of Louise Brown, the world’s first baby conceived through IVF in 1978, the procedure has undergone significant refinement and increased success rates. According to the society for Reproductive Medicine, the overall live birth rate per IVF cycle is around 30-40%. Ongoing research continues to focus on enhancing embryo selection techniques and optimizing treatment protocols to improve outcomes for patients.

Pro Tip: If you are considering IVF, consult with a reputable fertility specialist to discuss your options and understand the potential risks and benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions about IVF and Sex Selection

  • What is IVF? IVF, or In Vitro Fertilization, is a complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or to prevent genetic diseases and help with the conception of a child.
  • Does IVF guarantee a male baby? No, IVF doesn’t guarantee a male baby, but research suggests it slightly increases the probability.
  • Why are male embryos selected more frequently enough? The selection process often favors embryos based on faster growth in their initial stages, and male embryos tend to develop slightly quicker.
  • Is sex selection legal in IVF? Sex selection during IVF is generally illegal unless there’s a medical reason to avoid transmitting a sex-linked genetic disorder.
  • How can AI help reduce bias in IVF? AI systems can be designed to focus on factors predictive of successful implantation, rather than solely prioritizing growth rate, potentially minimizing sex bias.
  • What is the current success rate of IVF? According to the Society for Reproductive Medicine, the overall live birth rate per IVF cycle is around 30-40%.

What are your thoughts on the potential for bias in IVF embryo selection? Do you believe AI can play a role in creating a more equitable process? Share your comments below.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Health

IVF Success: Lose Weight, Boost Fertility & Get Pregnant

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

Losing Weight Before IVF: A New Path to Pregnancy, But Timing is Everything

For women with obesity, the path to pregnancy can be significantly more challenging. But a growing body of evidence suggests a surprisingly powerful intervention: weight loss. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Annals of Internal Medicine reveals that losing even a modest amount of weight before undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) is associated with increased pregnancy rates, particularly through natural conception – potentially even negating the need for costly and emotionally taxing treatments.

The Weight of Infertility: How Obesity Impacts Reproductive Health

Obesity isn’t simply a cosmetic concern when it comes to fertility. It disrupts the delicate hormonal balance crucial for ovulation, reduces the ovaries’ responsiveness to stimulation, and impacts both egg quality and the receptivity of the uterine lining. As the American Society for Reproductive Medicine highlighted in 2021, these factors contribute to lower birth rates following IVF. Until recently, the question of whether proactively addressing weight could improve outcomes remained unanswered.

A Closer Look at the Research: Modest Weight Loss, Meaningful Results

Researchers led by Moscho Michalopoula at Oxford University analyzed 12 randomized controlled trials involving nearly 2,000 women with a median BMI of 33.6. Participants, primarily from upper-middle and high-income countries, engaged in weight loss interventions lasting an average of 12 weeks. The results? Women in the intervention groups lost, on average, 4 kg (approximately 8.8 pounds) more than those receiving standard care. Crucially, this modest weight loss correlated with a 47% increase in the relative risk of unassisted pregnancy (RR 1.47, 95% CI 1.26-1.73).

PCOS and Weight Loss: A Nuance to Consider

The study also revealed a fascinating nuance: women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), who comprised nearly a quarter of the participants, experienced fewer unassisted pregnancies with weight loss. This suggests that the interplay between weight loss and PCOS is complex and requires further investigation. It’s possible that the hormonal shifts triggered by weight loss in women with PCOS need to be carefully managed to optimize fertility.

The Age Factor: A Critical Piece of the Puzzle

While weight loss shows promise, experts emphasize that time is of the essence. As Dr. Alan Penzias of Harvard Medical School points out in an accompanying editorial, a woman’s age remains the strongest predictor of pregnancy success. “The association of increasing age with reduced fecundity is so strong that some advocate consideration of IVF as a first-line treatment strategy in women older than 38 to 40 years,” he writes. This highlights a critical trade-off: the benefits of weight loss on natural conception must be balanced against the potential delays in pursuing IVF as age advances.

Beyond Unassisted Pregnancy: What About IVF Success?

The research showed inconclusive evidence regarding the impact of weight loss on pregnancy rates achieved through IVF. Similarly, data on live birth rates remained uncertain. This gap in knowledge underscores the need for more comprehensive studies that track outcomes over longer periods. As Dr. Cate Varney of the University of Virginia School of Medicine notes, “The timing and amount of clinically meaningful weight loss will be important to identify so we can clarify the trade-offs between delaying IVF for weight loss vs age-related fertility decline.”

Future Directions: Personalized Interventions and Long-Term Data

The current research highlights several key areas for future investigation. Firstly, identifying the most effective weight loss interventions – whether it’s dietary changes, exercise programs, or a combination of both – is crucial. Secondly, understanding the optimal timing and amount of weight loss for different patient profiles, particularly those with PCOS, is essential. Finally, long-term studies tracking live birth rates are needed to provide a more complete picture of the benefits of pre-IVF weight loss.

The emerging evidence suggests that empowering women with obesity to achieve a healthy weight before attempting conception could revolutionize fertility care. However, a personalized approach, considering age, underlying conditions like PCOS, and individual preferences, will be paramount. What are your thoughts on the role of pre-IVF weight loss? Share your perspective in the comments below!

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Health

Improving IVF Success for Obese Women: The Impact of Weight Loss on Fertility Outcomes

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

Weight loss before in vitro fertilization (IVF) could improve reproductive outcomes by increasing the chances of getting pregnant, according to findings published by investigators in Annals of Internal Medicine. The study authors, from the University of Oxford, noted that while chances of getting pregnant were even greater in unassisted conception, the effect on live births remains unclear.1,2

Image Credit: Christoph Burgstedt | stock.adobe.com

Obesity and Infertility

As obesity continues to rise globally, researchers have linked the condition to various health complications, including fertility; however, the exact effects of excess weight on reproductive health remain a subject of debate—despite its known risk for other conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.3

Previous studies suggest that obesity negatively impacts reproductive and pregnancy outcomes, but it is unclear if pre-artificial reproductive therapy (ART) weight loss improves results for individuals with both obesity and infertility. Evidence from existing studies highlighted in Nature indicates that obesity in women reduces ovarian response and affects egg and endometrial quality, thereby increasing miscarriage rates during ART. This suggests that while obesity may harm fertility, ART might help mitigate these effects.3

Obesity and IVF

Researchers reviewed 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), consisting of a total of 1921 patients from 5 electronic databases between 1980 and May 2025. The women involved in the RCTs were at least 18 years old or older with a body mass index of 27 kg/m² or greater. A BMI of 25 to 29.9 places women as overweight, and a BMI of 30 or higher is obesity.

All women assessed from the RCTs were seeking IVF with or without intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment for infertility. The study authors noted that 2 independent reviewers conducted screening and data extraction to assess the risk of bias and certainty of evidence. The primary end points of the study were pregnancy and live birth rates—specifically, the number of participants achieving pregnancy without IVF, overall births, and those delivering a live infant. Where applicable, studies were pooled using random-effects meta-analyses.1,2

Among the 12 RCTs, 7 had a high risk of bias. Additionally, the researchers identified that the average participants were in their early thirties with a median baseline BMI of 33.6 kg/m². Weight loss measures that were studied included low-energy diets, an exercise program followed by healthy eating advice, and pharmacotherapy with diet and physical activity advice.1,2

Moderate certainty evidence suggests that pre-IVF weight loss interventions increase total pregnancy rates (risk ratio [RR]1.21) and unassisted conception pregnancies (RR, 1.47), although their effect on pregnancies from IVF alone is uncertain. Further results demonstrated that these interventions did not appear to be linked with an increase in pregnancy loss rates (RR, 1.05) with moderate certainty, but their impact on live birth rates remains unclear due to very low certainty of evidence (RR, 1.15).1,2

The findings suggest that weight loss before IVF resulted in an increase in total pregnancies, specifically among women with unassisted pregnancy rates. However, larger clinical trials are needed to assess different weight loss interventions since the RCTs in this current study had small sample sizes and a high risk of bias.1,2

REFERENCES
1. Moscho Michalopoulou, Susan Ann Jebb, Alice Hobson, et al. The Effect of Weight Loss Before In Vitro Fertilization on Reproductive Outcomes in Women With Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Ann Intern Med. [Epub 12 August 2025]. doi:10.7326/ANNALS-24-01025
2. Losing weight before IVF may increase chance of pregnancy. EurekAlert! News release. August 11, 2025. Accessed August 13, 2025. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1093687
3. Jeong, H.G., Cho, S., Ryu, KJ. et al. Effect of weight loss before in vitro fertilization in women with obesity or overweight and infertility: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 146153 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-56818-4
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Health

Rethinking 3-Parent IVF for Singapore: Insights from UK’s Success in Genetic Treatments

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

“`html

Three-Parent IVF: Are We Ready to Reconsider the Science?

Table of Contents









Singapore – The Conventional understanding of human reproduction involves genetic material from two individuals. However, a groundbreaking advancement in the United Kingdom has challenged this norm. Scientists at Newcastle university have recently announced the successful birth of eight babies conceived through a revolutionary in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) technique utilizing DNA from three people.

this innovative procedure, known as mitochondrial replacement therapy, is often referred to as “three-parent IVF.” It was specifically designed to assist women who carry mitochondrial diseases in having healthy children. These diseases are inherited from mothers and can have devastating consequences for their offspring.

Mitochondrial diseases are estimated to affect approximately one in 5,000 births.They manifest in a wide range of severe health issues, including stroke-like episodes, debilitating seizures, progressive hearing loss, the onset of diabetes, and a gradual decline in brain function. These conditions significantly impact quality of life and often lead to premature mortality.

In 2021, Singapore’s Bioethics Advisory Committee (BAC) issued a proposal against permitting mitochondrial replacement within the country. The BAC cited concerns regarding the long-term safety and efficacy of the technology, advocating for a cautious approach. They emphasized the need for more extensive data before considering its implementation.

The BAC’s interim report stated that a more informed discussion on these complex issues should be deferred until greater certainty regarding the scientific principles,technical aspects,safety profile,and overall effectiveness of the procedure is established. This reflects a commitment to responsible innovation and patient well-being.

Now, with Newcastle University reporting healthy births and Australia actively exploring pathways to allow mitochondrial donation, the question arises: Is it time for Singapore to revisit its stance? This potential reconsideration necessitates a thorough examination of the multifaceted ethical and social implications involved.

Understanding Mitochondrial Disease

Mitochondrial diseases are caused by defects in the mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells. These defects prevent cells from producing enough energy to function properly, leading to a wide range of health problems. The severity of the disease can vary greatly depending on the specific genetic defect and the tissues affected.

Currently, there is no cure for mitochondrial diseases. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Mitochondrial replacement therapy offers a potential pathway to prevent the transmission of these diseases to future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Three-Parent IVF

What is mitochondrial replacement therapy?

Mitochondrial replacement therapy is an IVF technique that replaces the faulty mitochondria in a mother’s egg with healthy mitochondria from a donor, preventing the transmission of mitochondrial disease to her child.

Why is it called “three-parent IVF”?

the term “three-parent IVF” refers to the fact that the child inherits genetic material from both parents and a small amount of DNA from the mitochondrial donor.

What are the potential risks of this procedure?

Potential risks include the possibility of the donor

What are the key ethical considerations Singapore should address before considering the implementation of 3-Parent IVF, drawing from the UK’s experience?

Rethinking 3-Parent IVF for Singapore: Insights from UK’s Success in Genetic Treatments

Understanding Mitochondrial Disease & the Need for Advanced IVF

Mitochondrial diseases are a group of disorders resulting from defects in the mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells. These defects can lead to a wide range of debilitating and often fatal conditions, affecting multiple organ systems.Currently, there’s no cure. For families carrying the risk of transmitting these diseases, 3-Parent IVF – also known as mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT) – offers a potential pathway to having healthy children.This technique isn’t about creating a child with three parents; it’s about preventing the inheritance of faulty mitochondrial DNA. Genetic disease prevention is the core aim.

The UK’s Pioneering Approach to 3-Parent IVF

The United Kingdom became the first country to legally permit 3-Parent IVF in 2015,and the first baby born using this technique was reported in 2016. This landmark decision followed extensive ethical and scientific debate. The UK’s Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) established a rigorous regulatory framework, ensuring patient safety and ethical considerations are paramount.

Hear’s a breakdown of the approved techniques used in the UK:

Maternal Spindle Transfer (MST): The nucleus, containing the mother’s genetic information, is transferred from her egg to a healthy donor egg (with its own mitochondria removed). This egg is then fertilised with the father’s sperm.

Pronuclear Transfer (PNT): Both the mother’s egg and the donor egg are fertilised with the father’s sperm. Before the pronuclei (containing the genetic material from the egg and sperm) fuse, the pronuclei from the mother’s egg are transferred to the donor egg.

The UK’s experience demonstrates the feasibility and, importantly, the safety of these procedures. Ongoing monitoring of children born through MRT is crucial,and the HFEA continues to review and refine its guidelines based on emerging data.In vitro fertilization advancements are constantly being made.

Singapore’s Current Regulatory Landscape & Ethical Considerations

Currently, 3-Parent IVF is not permitted in Singapore. The country’s regulatory framework surrounding assisted reproductive technologies (ART) is stringent, prioritizing patient safety and ethical considerations. The primary concerns revolve around:

Germline Modification: MRT involves altering the germline – the genetic material passed down to future generations.This raises concerns about unforeseen long-term consequences.

ethical Implications: Debate exists regarding the ethical acceptability of altering the human genome, even for preventative purposes.

Social Impact: The potential societal impact of widespread adoption of MRT needs careful consideration. Reproductive rights are a key part of this discussion.

However, the success and growing body of evidence from the UK are prompting a re-evaluation of these concerns. Singapore’s robust healthcare system and commitment to scientific innovation position it well to perhaps adopt this technology responsibly.

Potential Benefits for Singaporean Families

For families in Singapore at risk of transmitting mitochondrial diseases, 3-Parent IVF could offer a life-changing opportunity.

Preventing Devastating Illness: Eliminate the risk of passing on debilitating and often fatal mitochondrial disorders to future generations.

Expanding Family Options: Provide a viable path to parenthood for couples who would or else face a high risk of having affected children.

Reducing Healthcare Burden: Preventing mitochondrial diseases could reduce the long-term healthcare burden associated with managing these complex conditions. Preventative medicine is a growing focus.

Addressing Concerns: A Phased Approach to implementation

A cautious, phased approach to implementing 3-Parent IVF in Singapore is crucial. This could involve:

  1. Public Consultation: Engage in a broad public dialog to address ethical concerns and gather societal perspectives.
  2. Legislative Framework: Develop a clear and thorough legal framework that governs the use of MRT, ensuring patient safety and ethical oversight. This framework should align with international best practices,such as those established by the HFEA.
  3. Establishment of a National Registry: Create a national registry to track outcomes and monitor the long-term health of children born through MRT.
  4. Limited Initial Implementation: Begin with a limited number of approved cases, focusing on families with the highest risk of transmitting severe mitochondrial diseases.
  5. Ongoing Review & Refinement: Continuously review and refine the regulatory framework based on emerging data and ethical considerations. Biomedical ethics are central to this process.

the Role of Genetic Counseling & Patient Support

Comprehensive genetic counseling is essential for families considering 3-Parent IVF. Counselors can provide:

Accurate Information: Explain the procedure, its risks and benefits, and the potential long-term implications.

Emotional Support: Help families navigate the complex emotional challenges associated with genetic disease risk and ART.

* Ethical Guidance: Facilitate informed decision-making by exploring the ethical considerations involved. Family planning is a critical

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts
@2025 - All Right Reserved.

Hosted by ByoHosting - Most Recommendeed Webhhosting. For complains, abuse, advertising contact:
[email protected]

Adblock Detected

Please support us by disabling your AdBlocker extension from your browsers for our website.