While in vitro fertilization (IVF) has been a revolutionary infertility treatment since the birth of Louise Brown, the first baby conceived through the procedure in 1978, many couples still face a long and uncertain journey toward parenthood. Despite advancements in IVF techniques, the live birth rate per embryo transfer remains low for many patients. New research may hold the key to improving these odds.

IVF begins with a delicate process where eggs are fertilized outside the body and observed as they develop into embryos. Some fertility clinics offer a high-tech procedure known as time-lapse imaging, where embryos are photographed every ten minutes to monitor their progress. This technique, often presented as a way to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy, has become widely used and expensive—adding up to $700 in the UK or $500 in the US to an IVF cycle.

However, a study published in The Lancet in July 2024 cast doubt on the benefits of time-lapse imaging. The study, which reviewed over 1,500 IVF procedures, found no significant difference in live birth rates between those using time-lapse imaging and those who did not. Priya Bhide, a senior lecturer at Queen Mary University of London, who co-authored the study, noted that previous reviews had already suggested limited evidence for the technique’s effectiveness.

Despite the lack of clear improvements from time-lapse imaging, the broader field of IVF has made incremental progress over the years. For example, the success rate of IVF has tripled for women under 38 since the 1990s, and the live birth rate in the US has risen 1.6 times over the past decade. Still, for women aged 35 and older, the success rate per embryo transfer remains relatively low, around 30-39%.

The emotional and financial toll of IVF can be severe, with many patients undergoing multiple cycles, each costing thousands of dollars, and facing repeated failures. However, researchers are hopeful that new approaches could increase the chances of success.

One promising area of research is the development of better techniques for egg extraction. A new method being tested on dairy cows uses a specially designed needle that induces fluid turbulence inside the follicle to extract more eggs without damaging them. If successful in human trials, this technique could increase both the quantity and quality of retrieved eggs, potentially improving IVF outcomes.

Additionally, scientists in Spain are experimenting with magnetic nanoparticles that allow for the manipulation of eggs and embryos without direct physical contact. This method could reduce the risk of damaging delicate cells, which is a common concern in IVF procedures.

In Australia, researchers are investigating the use of light to measure lipid levels in embryos, which could offer new insights into their metabolic activity and potential for successful development. However, as with all new technologies, these methods still need extensive testing before they can be applied in clinical practice.

While IVF continues to offer hope for millions, researchers caution that even with new innovations, the road to a successful pregnancy remains uncertain. As IVF becomes more advanced, the challenge remains to make these techniques more effective and accessible, while managing the emotional and financial strain for couples.

The UK government is exploring a potential ban on social media for under-16s, according to Technology Secretary Peter Kyle. Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Kyle emphasized that safeguarding children online is a top priority, stating he would “do what it takes” to ensure their safety.

Kyle also announced plans for further research into the effects of technology, including social media and smartphones, on young people. He noted the lack of “firm, peer-reviewed evidence” on the matter and said such data would inform future decisions.

Online Safety Act Enforcement

The announcement coincides with Kyle’s “letter of strategic intent” to Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, which will soon gain new enforcement powers under the Online Safety Act (OSA). The OSA, set to take effect in 2024, requires tech companies to take greater responsibility for the content on their platforms, particularly to shield children from harmful material.

Kyle stressed the importance of assertive regulation, calling on Ofcom to fully utilize its authority under the Act. “I just want to make sure that Ofcom knows that government expects them to be used,” he said.

Under the OSA, social media and messaging platforms face steep fines—potentially in the billions—if they fail to comply. Some platforms have already introduced changes, such as Instagram’s new teen accounts and Roblox’s ban on young children messaging others.

Calls for Broader Action

The Molly Rose Foundation, a campaign group advocating for online safety, welcomed Kyle’s efforts but urged the government to strengthen the OSA. “The public and parents back an updated Act that embeds an overarching duty of care on tech firms,” the group posted on social media platform X, calling for swift action from the Prime Minister.

Legal experts have cautioned that banning social media for young people is only part of the solution. Iona Silverman, a lawyer at Freeths, described the measure as “a drop in an ocean-sized problem,” pointing out that teenagers may still find ways to access harmful content. She called for a broader cultural shift and more proactive legislation to address the issue.

Lessons from Australia

The UK’s deliberations come after Australia announced plans to ban social media for children under 16. When asked if the UK would adopt a similar policy, Kyle said, “Everything is on the table,” but stressed the need for evidence-based decisions.

Smartphone Use Under Scrutiny

The debate extends beyond social media to smartphone usage among young people. Parliament is reviewing a private member’s bill addressing digital safety for children, with input from the Healthcare Professionals for Safer Screens group. Founder and GP Rebecca Foljambe highlighted growing concerns among health professionals about smartphone overuse.

While the government has stopped short of banning smartphones in schools, it has issued guidelines to promote effective restrictions. Kyle previously stated that the “battle over phone use in schools had been won.”

Critics, however, continue to call for more decisive action to protect children in an increasingly digital world.