Development of assisted reproductive medicine in Europe.

The mediocre outcome of microsurgery results in patients with extensive tubal disease was the original driving force behind the search for new methods to assist these infertile patients. Many unsuccessful attempts were carried out before the birth of the first in vitro fertilization baby in Europe 40 years ago. Many pioneers worked tirelessly to develop the tools, procedures, and research necessary. Thanks to the efforts of many, the field of reproductive medicine has grown, advanced, and progressed in ways that seemed nearly impossible just a few decades ago.