“Test tube babies” is a term that was originally used to describe babies conceived through in vitro fertilization (IVF), a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART). However, the term is now considered outdated and inaccurate, as the fertilization and early embryo development actually occur in a laboratory dish, not a test tube.

In IVF, eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory dish. The resulting embryos are then cultured for a few days until they reach the blastocyst stage. One or more embryos are then transferred to the uterus, where they may implant and develop into a pregnancy.

While the term “test tube baby” is often used to refer specifically to IVF, it can also be used more broadly to describe any baby conceived through ART. This may include other procedures such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), which involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg, or gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT), which involves placing eggs and sperm directly into the fallopian tubes.

It’s worth noting that while ART has helped many couples to conceive and have children, it can be a complex and emotionally challenging process, and it may not be successful for everyone. The success rates of ART vary depending on a number of factors, including the age of the patient, the cause of infertility, and the quality of the eggs and sperm used. It’s important to work closely with a fertility specialist to determine the best course of treatment and to receive support throughout the process.