July 25, 1978: World’s First “Test Tube Baby” Born
On this day in 1978, the first baby ever to be conceived via in vitro fertilization (IVF) was born by caesarean section in Manchester, England. Louise Brown (nicknamed the “First Test Tube Baby”) was later joined by a little sister, Natalie, who was also conceived through IVF. As adults, their ability to bear children naturally eased some concerns that female IVF babies would be unable to get pregnant without treatment.
Check out The History of In Vitro Fertilization courtesy of American Experience.
