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Is test-tube baby really better than the next? Experts reveal the differences between three generations of technology
Source: LelaiwaPublished: 2025-09-22
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Inmodern society, IVF technology has brought hope to many infertile families. However, many people often have a misunderstanding when they come into contact with this technology: Is IVF technology like mobile phones or electronic products, each generation is better than the next? Does the larger the number of technology mean more advanced? Today, we will reveal the truth behind the "intergenerational" of IVF.
1. Understanding the origins of this misconception: Why is there a division between “” and “”?
"","","",.This naming method can easily lead to the misunderstanding that "the new generation replaces the old generation," but in fact, these technologies exist in parallel, each with its own specific application scenarios and indications. The relationship between them is complementary rather than replacing.
(1) The first generation of IVF-ET: Solving women's fallopian tubeproblems
The scientific name of the first generation of IVF technology is "in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer", which is the original form of IVF technology.
"-",.It mainly solves infertility problems caused by female factors, such as fallopian tube obstruction, ovulation disorders, endometriosis, etc.
,,.Doctors often vividly compare it to "free love", allowing sperm and eggs to naturally combine.
The second-generation technology is called "intracytoplasmic sperm injection", which mainly solves infertility problems caused by male factors, such as severe oligospermia, asthenospermia, and teratospermia.
The second-generation technology is known as “intracytoplasmic sperm injection”. It primarily addresses infertility issues caused by male factors, such as severe oligospermia, weak sperm, and abnormal sperm morphology.
,.This is likened to an "arranged marriage" in which a sperm and egg are artificially combined.
The third-generation technology is called "Pre-implantation Genetic Testing", which is a technology that performs genetic screening of embryos based on the second-generation technology.
The third-generation technology is known as “Preimplantation Genetic Testing”. It involves genetic screening of embryos, based on the principles of the second-generation technology.
,,.This can significantly reduce the risk of transmission of genetic diseases
nEthics and controversy
Althoughthe third-generation IVF technology has brought hope to many families to have healthy babies, it has also triggered a series of ethical disputes. On the one hand, genetic screening is like opening a "Pandora's box". Some people worry that this may lead to the emergence of "designed babies", such as selecting the gender, appearance, intelligence and other characteristics of the embryo, which undoubtedly violates natural genetic diversity. Sex undermines the equality and dignity of life. On the other hand, the selection of XY is also a focus of controversy. In my country, the law clearly prohibits the selection of XY for non-medical needs, because it may aggravate the gender imbalance; however, some people believe that for certain gender-related genetic diseases, reasonable selection of XY is a necessary medical means. These ethical disputes are like a fog that hangs over the development of the third generation of IVF technology. They also urge us to think carefully and adhere to the moral bottom line when enjoying the benefits brought by technology.

But this difference in success rates is mainly due to the difference in application populations, rather than the superiority of the technology itself.
,.The third-generation technology faces couples at risk of genetic diseases but may not have fertility problems
Moreimportantly, age is the decisive factor affecting the success rate of IVF. After the age of 35, the annual decline is 6-7 percentage points, and after the age of 38, the decline is 10%. By the age of 45, only about 10% of embryos have normal chromosomes.
With the development of medical technology, IVF technology is also constantlyimproving
Genetic testing is more accurate and whole genomesequencing
Gene testing becomes more accurateThe technology is faster and cheaper and can detect monogenic genetic diseases early in the embryo; non-invasive testing reduces potential effects on the embryo by analyzing DNA in the embryo culture medium.
Personalized ovulation induction regimensAI can tailor the most appropriate ovulation induction plan based on factors such as a woman's ovarian reserve, hormone levels, and age. This approach helps to reduce the amount of medication required, thereby minimizing side effects.
Innovations in freezing technology2.0,100%.
5. How to choose: What suits you isbetter
The choice of generation of IVF technology does not depend on the "advanced level" of the technology, but depends on the specific circumstances of both couples
Female fallopian tube problems → Consider first-generationtechnology
Male semen abnormalities → Consider second-generationtechnology
Risk of genetic disease → Consider third-generationtechnology
In fact, there is no better technology, only the most suitable technology.
,,.As Chief Physician Liu Haiying, deputy director of the Reproductive Medicine Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, said: "In theory, what suits you is better. It does not mean that the higher the algebra, the better. This concept must be deeply rooted in the hearts of the people. "
6. Answers to frequently asked questions
1. What are the common drugs for promoting excretion?
The medications used to stimulate follicle development are mostly human-derived or recombinant hormones. These medications mimic the natural secretions of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) in the human body. They are used to promote the development of follicles. Common drugs used for this purpose include…
Gonadotropin: such as recombinant human follicle stimulating hormone alpha (Gonal-f) and urogonadotropin (HMG), which directly stimulate the development and maturity of follicles.
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG): Similar to human chorionic gonadotropin used for injection, such as Ovidrel, it mimics the LH peak, promoting the final maturation of follicles and ovulation.
GnRH analogs: such as triptorelin acetate (Daflon, agonist), cetrorelix acetate (Cetrorelix, antagonist). These medications are used to prevent premature ovulation.
Oral medications: Such as clomiphene (Clomid) and letrozole, which stimulate the secretion of FSH through various mechanisms.
Doctors will develop individualized treatment plans based on your age, ovarian function, and other factors. This may include long-term or short-term treatment regimens, as well as antagonist-based approaches.
Do drugs used for triggering ovulation have any side effects?
Yes, but most of the side effects are mild and temporary. The incidence of serious side effects is relatively low.
Abdominal distension, mild abdominal pain: caused by temporary increase in the development of multiple ovarian follicles.
Abdominal distension and mild abdominal pain: These symptoms are caused by the temporary enlargement of the ovaries due to the development of multiple follicles.
Emotional fluctuations, fatigue, and headaches: These are related to changes in hormone levels within the body.
Breast tenderness: Hormonal fluctuations can stimulate the breast tissue.
Injection site reactions: such as redness, swelling, hard lumps, and pain.
Gastrointestinal discomfort: such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
These symptoms usually resolve on their own, or disappear after stopping the medication.
3. Does in vitro fertilization cause significant harm to women’s bodies?
"","",.Of course, any medical operation carries certain risks and needs to be carried out under the guidance of a doctor.
4. What are the costs of in vitro fertilization?
5. What factors will affect the success of IVF
5. What factors can affect the success rate of in vitro fertilization?
In addition to technical factors, various other factors such as age, the quality of eggs and sperm, conditions of the endometrium, the quality of the embryo, and the expertise of medical institutions can all affect the success rate.
IVF technology is not that "each generation is stronger than the next generation", but that "each generation is more specialized than the next generation."
"","".Each generation of technology has its own specific application scenarios and solution directions.
For couples considering in vitro fertilization, it is crucial to undergo a thorough examination and consult with professional doctors to determine the most suitable treatment plan for their specific situation.
The path of childbirth can be full of challenges, but the development of modern medical technology and the support of professional medical teams are bringing hope of new life to more and more families.



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