A Canadian baby is the first to be born using the process of “in vitro maturation (IVM),” in which an egg was matured in a lab, frozen, thawed, and then fertilized. Traditional in vitro fertilization (IVF) requires a series of hormone treatments that cause the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs. IVM, which takes immature eggs from unstimulated ovaries, offers new hope to those with medical conditions, like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and certain cancers, that make ovarian stimulation dangerous, or that limit the time they have to undergo egg extraction.
Although IVM is still in its infancy, and has not yet been proven in cancer patients, another three women are now pregnant via the method, making it seem like a real possibility for the future. IVM could also ease assisted reproduction even for healthy women, allowing them to do away with hormone treatments before egg extraction. (Having been through such treatments, I’ll say that this would be a good move.)
Researchers also announced they were able to extract, mature, and freeze eggs from girls as young as five, though none have yet been fertilized. Extracting eggs from girls raises a host of legal questions about who has control over these eggs while a girl is still a minor or in the event of her death or permanent mental impairment, who pays to keep the eggs on ice, and what happens if the money runs out.
In reporting this, New Scientist comments “The technique might allow girls with cancer to become mothers when they grow up.” Biological mothers, yes. Let’s remember, however, that adoption and using an egg donor also offer ways for women to “become mothers.” I’m not saying those who want to have biological children should simply try another method; I’m saying let’s not keep implying biology is the only way to motherhood. Still, for those who do choose to pursue the biological method, these new developments promise greater options.