Sydney, Aug 13, 2025 — Between 13 and 17 million babies have been born worldwide through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and other assisted reproductive technologies (ART) since the birth of the first “test-tube baby” in 1978, according to a new global analysis.
The findings, released by the International Committee Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ICMART), are based on data from 101 countries and multiple regional registries. The research team, led by Professor Georgina Chambers, confirmed that more than 13 million IVF and ART births took place between 1978 and 2018, with an additional 3 to 4 million estimated between 2018 and 2023.
Europe Leads the Way
Europe recorded 3.6 to 4.5 million IVF-conceived children over the 40-year period, followed closely by Asia with 3 to 4 million. North America accounted for 1.4 to 1.6 million births, while South America, Africa, and Oceania made up the remainder.
Rising Demand, Uneven Access
The study points to rapid growth in IVF use, fueled by medical advancements, broader social acceptance, and a trend toward later parenthood. But experts caution that access remains unequal, with high costs and limited facilities restricting treatment in many regions.
A Landmark in Reproductive Medicine
“This is not just a scientific achievement but a social one,” said Prof. Chambers. “Millions of families now exist who would not have been possible without assisted reproduction.”
Researchers predict the number of IVF births will rise sharply in coming years as technology becomes more widely available, particularly in developing nations.
