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The end of the ‘test tube baby’ could be in sight after British doctors launched a new form IVF which allows conception to take place in the womb, like a natural pregnancy.
The technique, described as ‘a real breakthrough’ involves placing egg and sperm cells into a tiny silicone capsule, the size of a grain of rice, and inserting it into the womb.
Doctors say it gives couples a psychological boost, knowing that the child has actually been conceived inside the mother, while the embryos benefit from being in the perfect conditions for fertilisation. It contains 360 holes so fluid from the womb can surround the egg and sperm.
After 24 hours the capsule is removed and doctors select the most healthy embryos for implantation into the womb lining of the mother.
Doctors are hoping the new technique will improve the health and weight of babies born through IVF.
“Babies born following IVF treatment have been shown to have lower than normal birth weight and, although not initially a problem, we know there is a link between low birth weight and long-term health and the laboratory environment could play a part in this,” added Prof Macklon.
Read full, original post: End of the ‘test tube baby’ as new technique allows IVF fertilization in womb