Honoring the Women Who Shaped IVF: Pioneers, Patients, and Advocates
Caperton Fertility • March 7, 2025
As we reflect on the incredible progress of reproductive medicine, it's essential to recognize the remarkable women whose contributions have shaped the field of in vitro fertilization (IVF) as we know it today. From groundbreaking scientists to the very first IVF patients, these women have not only advanced fertility care but have also brought hope to millions of families around the world.
At Caperton Fertility Institute, we’re proud to stand on the shoulders of these trailblazers, whose work continues to inspire the future of fertility treatment.
🌟 Pioneering Scientists & Physicians
Dr. Jean Purdy (1945–1985)
Often overlooked in IVF history, Dr. Jean Purdy was a nurse and embryologist who played a vital role in the world's first successful IVF procedure. As part of the team that brought Louise Brown, the first IVF baby, into the world in 1978, Dr. Purdy managed the lab and helped develop the embryo culture techniques that made the procedure possible. Today, she is finally being recognized as a true pioneer in embryology and reproductive medicine.
Dr. Georgianna Seegar Jones (1912–2005)
As one of the first reproductive endocrinologists in the United States, Dr. Georgianna Seegar Jones co-founded the country’s first fertility clinic in 1939 alongside her husband, Dr. John Rock. Her groundbreaking work in early fertility treatments laid the foundation for the future of IVF, offering options for patients who had previously been left without hope.
Dr. Kay Elder
A direct collaborator with IVF pioneer Robert Edwards, Dr. Kay Elder has been instrumental in training and educating generations of fertility specialists worldwide. Her contributions to research and her dedication to knowledge-sharing have elevated standards in reproductive medicine, ensuring that patients today benefit from decades of refined practices and innovation.
Dr. Ana Cobo
A leader in fertility preservation, Dr. Ana Cobo revolutionized the process of oocyte (egg) vitrification. Her work has been especially life-changing for patients facing cancer treatments and women seeking to preserve their fertility for future family-building. Thanks to her research and advancements, egg freezing has become a safe, reliable, and widely accessible option for patients around the globe.
🌟 First IVF Baby
Louise Brown (b. 1978)
The birth of Louise Brown marked a new era in reproductive medicine. As the world's first IVF baby, her arrival offered hope to countless individuals and couples experiencing infertility. Louise continues to be a symbol of what’s possible through science, perseverance, and the dedication of fertility pioneers.
🌟 Advocates & Changemakers
Elizabeth Carr (b. 1981)
As the first baby born via IVF in the United States, Elizabeth Carr has grown into a passionate advocate for reproductive rights and infertility awareness. By sharing her story, she works to break the stigma around fertility treatments and bring attention to the emotional and physical journeys of those seeking care.
Dr. Serena Chen
Dr. Serena Chen is not only a highly respected fertility specialist but also a leading voice in reproductive health advocacy. Through her public platforms, Dr. Chen champions equitable access to fertility care and works to raise awareness about the barriers many patients face on their paths to parenthood.
Dr. Natalie Crawford
One of today’s most influential educators in fertility medicine, Dr. Natalie Crawford uses social media to empower women with knowledge about their reproductive health. Her approachable and informative content has helped destigmatize infertility and created a supportive space for people navigating complex fertility journeys.
Honoring the Women Who Inspire Us
The journey of IVF, from a groundbreaking experimental procedure to a widely used and highly successful treatment, would not have been possible without the contributions of these extraordinary women. Their dedication to science, advocacy, and education continues to transform lives, and their legacies are felt every day at clinics like Caperton Fertility Institute.
As we celebrate these pioneers, patients, and changemakers, we are reminded of the power of innovation, compassion, and resilience in the field of fertility care. We are grateful for their work—and we look forward to carrying their mission forward by helping you build the family of your dreams.
Embarking on the embryo transfer phase of your IVF journey is a big step, and understandably, patients often ask what they can expect during this important stage. At Caperton Fertility Institute, we take great care in preparing your body to create the most welcoming environment possible for a developing embryo. Here’s an overview of how we prepare you for a frozen embryo transfer, including the medications we use and why they matter. 1. Estrogen Patches to Build the Uterine Lining The first step in the preparation process involves thickening the endometrial lining of your uterus so it can support an embryo. We use estrogen patches for this purpose. These patches deliver a consistent dose of estrogen through your skin, and you’ll typically wear several patches on your abdomen at a time, changed every other day as instructed. Estrogen helps your uterine lining grow to the ideal thickness for implantation. We monitor this closely with ultrasound to ensure optimal conditions. 2. Adding Intramuscular Progesterone Once your lining has reached the right thickness, we introduce intramuscular progesterone injections. Progesterone transforms the uterine lining into a receptive state, mimicking what happens naturally after ovulation. These injections are given daily and are an essential part of making the uterus ready to accept an embryo. While the thought of intramuscular shots can be intimidating, our team will guide you through every step and offer tips to make the process more comfortable. 3. Timing the Transfer The timing of your embryo transfer is carefully coordinated based on your hormone levels and the day your embryo was frozen. For example, if you're transferring a blastocyst (an embryo that developed for five days), we schedule your transfer five days after starting progesterone. Precision is key, and we tailor the timing to closely replicate the conditions of a natural cycle. 4. Day of the Transfer The transfer itself is a quick, gentle procedure that doesn’t require anesthesia. We use ultrasound guidance to place the embryo in the uterus, and many patients describe it as similar to a Pap smear. Afterward, you’ll rest briefly before going home. Supporting You Through Every Phase Every part of the embryo transfer preparation is designed with care and intention. We want to give you the best possible chance for success, and we’re here to support you emotionally and physically throughout the process. If you have any questions about preparing for your embryo transfer or the medications involved, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re with you every step of the way.
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