Fertility Treatment Space Is Not Standing Still
Infertility is a concerning trend that impacts 9-11% of American adults. Individuals or couples have a dream to have children via pregnancy but have difficulty doing so. Infertility treatment, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), has led the way in increasing the chances of pregnancy. But what does the future hold? Are there new methods and technologies that can push fertility treatment forward? Here are some of the emerging strategies and fertility treatment breakthroughs that will shape reproductive medicine. Some of these can help patients now and others in the not-so-distant future.
Robotics and artificial intelligence in fertility
Technological advancements such as robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) have integrated into many forms of medicine. Reproductive treatments are no exception. For instance, scientists have found ways to integrate robotics into fertility treatments. Robotics can perform more precise fertility procedures, such as sperm retrieval or the handling of embryos. Using robotic-arm-assisted devices improves the success rates of surgeries necessary to improve reproductive health. AI can calculate and predict faster than humans. Including AI tools and learning models in fertility can create customized treatments that lead to better outcomes and predict success rates while reducing risks. Studies show that these tools can have a positive impact on assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatments.
More preimplantation genetic testing (PGT)
Genetic testing is a strategy used in severe infertility cases to increase the chances of success. The fertility team tests the embryos for genetic abnormalities before completing the embryo transfer. PGT can reveal potential issues that can lead to a failed pregnancy. The test can also confirm the presence of genes that can form into hereditary diseases. Genetic testing is an optional part of IVF. The future may see PGT as a necessary part of the process, thereby improving success rates. Genetic testing technology is also evolving, with options like next-generation sequencing (NGS) improving success rates.
Will in vitro gametogenesis transform reproduction?
On the cutting edge of fertility treatments lie in vitro gametogenesis (IVG), an innovative strategy for complex cases. IVF needs to combine egg and sperm to create embryos, which are then transferred to a woman's uterus. Egg and sperm cells are requirements for IVF success which must be harvested from the hopeful parents or provided by a donor. IVG promises to create these reproductive cells from other cells harvested from the body. In theory, gene technology will allow scientists to manipulate cells from skin, hair, or tissue into cells capable of forming embryos. The IVF process will then resume. This technology is far away from being available and does carry severe ethical implications. However, IVG is a testament to the potential of ART.
New methods in cryopreservation
Preserving eggs and sperm is a major part of the IVF process. As IVF produces multiple embryos, cryopreservation is necessary to secure the embryos for future IVF cycles. Cryopreservation methods are also evolving, with advanced technologies serving to store eggs, sperm, or embryos while minimizing damage. Ovarian tissue freezing is another innovative way to preserve fertility through cryopreserving an ovary for later use. This is ideal for improving IVF success rates in cancer patients who may experience infertility after cancer treatment.
Can gene editing technology be the future?
Within the realm of science lies the possibility of gene editing. This technology allows the manipulation of cells or embryos to achieve certain objectives. Techniques like CRISPR are being explored for the potential to correct genetic defects in embryos. This strategy could prevent inherited diseases from being passed on to future generations or improve the success rates of embryos. Gene editing is only allowed for research purposes and is not guaranteed to be safe or effective. In the distant future, gene editing may play an active role in IVF.
How you can access the future today
Everyone stands to benefit from advancing the science, medicine, and technology involved in reproductive medicine. Patients have higher chances of achieving pregnancy, while doctors and fertility clinics can serve more individuals and couples with confidence. Current strategies used in ART and IVF work well and have high success rates, but technology will improve outcomes. Ask a fertility clinic about the latest techniques and technologies supporting reproductive medicine.
