The Pioneering Lecture that Changed the Face of IVF: A Historic Account

By Fiona Kisby Littleton, Susan Bewley, and James Owen Drife

In a groundbreaking lecture delivered in January 1979, pioneers Robert Edwards and Patrick Steptoe shared their decade-long clinical and scientific research journey that led to the birth of Louise Brown, the world’s first IVF baby. This meticulously researched book provides a comprehensive annotated transcript of the lecture, along with personal reminiscences from attendees, offering a unique insight into the contemporary understanding of the event.

A Fresh Perspective on the Historic Context

The book includes an essay that delves into the historical context of the lecture, shedding new light on the biographies of Edwards and Steptoe. It also explores often-overlooked sources from print and broadcast media, providing a more nuanced understanding of this pivotal moment in medical history.

The Future of IVF: Exploring Medical and Ethical Implications

The authors examine the significant advances in IVF since the first procedure, discussing the current and future implications of these breakthroughs. They explore the potential medical and scientific possibilities, as well as the ethical issues that may arise, providing a thought-provoking perspective on the future of assisted reproduction.

A heartfelt foreword by Louise Brown herself adds a personal touch to this remarkable story, one that has had a profound impact on countless families around the world.

Book Specifications

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Edition: New edition (May 18, 2023)
• Language: English
• Format: Hardcover
• Pages: 160
• ISBN-10: 100921103X
• ISBN-13: 978-1009211031