IVF and follow-up studies
10 September 2003
The HFEA holds data on babies born through assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and this data is available in an anonymised form for research purposes. By law, the HFEA is not allowed to give out information which would identify people conceived through IVF. However, the HFEA recognises the importance of long-term studies and allows researchers access to clinics so that patients who are willing can take part in follow-up research.
In addition, The HFEA is working with the Medical Research Council in a working group to review the current knowledge of IVF and its possible health effects. The group, which is chaired by Professor Catherine Peckham a senior epidemiologist at the Institute of Child Health, will advise on what further research is necessary and how this might best be carried out.
Suzi Leather, Chair of the HFEA says:
"IVF is essentially a safe technique, but it is important that we continue to monitor and assess all research and development in assisted reproductive technologies (ART)."
The working group is currently undergoing a detailed review of relevant studies in order to make recommendations for further research. The working group is hoping to complete its review and decide on areas for additional research by the end of 2003.
Ends
Notes to editors
The HFEA was set up in August 1991 as part of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990. The HFEA's principal tasks are to license and monitor clinics that carry out in vitro fertilisation (IVF), donor insemination (DI) and human embryo research. The HFEA also regulates the storage of gametes (eggs and sperm) and embryos.
Page last updated: 12 March 2009
In vitro fertilisation (IVF) literally means ‘fertilisation in glass’ giving us the familiar term ‘test tube baby’.