Short Wave In Light of The Alabama Court Ruling, A Look At The Science Of IVF
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Feb 26, 2024 
Amanda Adeleye, a reproductive endocrinologist from the University of Chicago, dives into the implications of a recent Alabama Supreme Court ruling that redefines embryos as 'extrauterine children.' She discusses the science of in vitro fertilization, revealing how nearly half a million babies have been born through IVF in the U.S. since its inception. Adeleye highlights challenges like financial barriers, social stigma, and legal uncertainties that affect access to fertility treatments, especially in a post-Roe landscape.
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The Beauty of Embryo Development
- Amanda describes the beauty of embryo development, from a single cell to a blastocyst with a shell, inner cell mass, and fluid.
- She expresses her privilege in witnessing this process during embryo transfers.
IVF Process and Cost
- IVF involves ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, embryo development, and transfer.
- Its cost, averaging $15,000-$20,000 per cycle, poses a significant barrier due to limited insurance coverage.
Fertility Issues and Stigma
- Late diagnosis of fertility issues, often due to societal stigma and lack of open communication, can worsen the prognosis.
- Infertility affects a significant portion of couples (1 in 7-8), highlighting the need for increased awareness and discussion.