The Latest Innovations in IVF and the Challenges

The science of in vitro fertilization (IVF) continues to progress and increase success rates to above 20%. Still, many New Jersey adoption lawyers note that research could be proceeding at a much faster rate. The problem is that research is limited in the U.S. not only by old legislation but by laws that vary between states.

IVF

IVF involves a series of procedures that can lead to pregnancy. The particular series of procedures employed depends on the individuals involved and the reproductive challenges they face. The first use of IVF was in 1978. By 1991, the success rate was 8 percent. Lab and clinical advancements have increased that success rate to 22% as of 2021.

Slow Rate of Research

IVF was a heavily stigmatized area of reproductive medicine in the 1980s and 1990s. It was also highly politicized, and lawmakers based their opinions on the stigma of the time. That stigma has largely subsided in Western culture. Still, researchers are operating under those laws established more than 30 and 40 years ago. Further complicating matters in the U.S. is that those laws vary from state to state. Embryo research is only explicitly legal in five states and legal subject to limitations in 13 other states, including New Jersey.

Modern Research Shows Promise

Limited access to embryos has shifted much research to the peripheries of IVF. Some studies focus on using nutritional supplements and sound waves, for instance, to activate lethargic sperm rather than the core IVF methodologies. Scientists warn that many of these solutions make it to the marketplace with limited research. Despite that low signal-to-noise ratio, there are notable improvements in the field. One involves using artificial intelligence (AI) to select the embryos most likely to succeed. Another is in vitro gametogenesis (IVG), which can transform normal cells into reproductive cells.

AI

The use of AI to select embryos is among the most exciting frontiers of IVF. Embryo selection is currently a time-consuming and imperfect process that requires a clinical embryologist to make selections based on morphology and their individual experience. There are now AI models that greatly reduce the time required, eliminate subjectivity, and increase success rates. These models can also benefit from the collective experience of all embryologists. One of the core ethical concerns is the “black box” nature of AI and having these models select the embryos that will become children. This is certainly something we will have to work through as a society and create laws to protect against misuse.

IVG

IVG is a process through which scientists can transform somatic or “normal” cells into gametes or reproductive cells. Through IVG, it is possible to create an artificial sperm and an artificial egg and then combine them to create an embryo. It would make it possible for practically all couples to procreate, including same-sex couples. While IVG will be possible eventually, it is still in its early stages. In addition, there are some ethical concerns as well. It does, for example, open up the possibility of creating a child through the unauthorized use of genetic material.

Enhancing Success Rates

There has also been great progress in improving success rates on an individual level. The most important factors include maintaining a moderate body mass index, eating a balanced diet, taking folic acid as a supplement, and regular moderate exercise. Those trying to get pregnant should manage their stress levels. Tobacco and alcohol use is known to lower success rates. IVF experts also recommend getting vaccinated and avoiding chemicals like pesticides.

Do You Need a Reproductive Law Attorney?

If you want to expand your family through IVF, the law office of Cofsky & Zeidman encourages you to meet with an experienced lawyer. Donald Cofsky is a New Jersey adoption lawyer and a charter member of the American Academy of Assisted Reproductive Technology Attorneys. He has personally assisted more than 1,500 families, including cases involving IVF and surrogacy. To have him take a look at your situation, contact us online, or call our Haddonfield office at (856) 429-5005.