Two babies have been successfully born through In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) at the National Fertility Centre.
The National Fertility Centre was launched on 15 November 2024 to help families struggling with infertility. Over the past year, the centre has transformed the national health system in fertility care. Since its establishment, two babies have been born through IVF at the centre, with the first baby now 27 days old, and the second 23 days old.
A ceremony celebrating the achievement was attended by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Director of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic, Dr Mohamed Aseel Jaleel said the service is being strengthened and expanded, with plans to introduce the service in regional hospitals for wider access.
Fertility Consultant Dr Jayadeep Tank said the National Fertility Centre has achieved significant progress over the last year, supported by a strong and well-trained team. He acknowledged the emotional and financial toll on families that experience infertility, and expressed hope that the team can assist more families in their infertility journey.
According to statistics, 578 couples sought fertility treatment at the centre in the past year. During this period, 96 patients were selected for IVF. While 86 women underwent egg retrieval, 68 embryos were transferred. 23 women are currently pregnant and nearing delivery.
Meanwhile, three cancer patients received fertility preservation services so they can try for children post treatment.
With the introduction of IVF and IUI services through the national health insurance scheme Aasandha, many families struggling with infertility now have renewed hope, and officials consider this a major national health achievement.