IVF is a process which is expensive and more often than not ends in failure.
Just one-third of IVF implants produce a baby.
Now new developments in Europe could revolutionise how IVF works.
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Scientists have found a way to not only make the process drastically cheaper - but also significantly boost success rates.
A baby has been born in the US using a new method for screening embryos during IVF which could dramatically reduce costs.
Connor Levy was born in May after the test, after his parents had been trying to conceive naturally for four years.
"The secondary test came back from overseas, his (the doctor's) words were 'I stake my reputation that one embryo will take and you will be pregnant', and, it did," said David Levey.
A new screening technique has allowed researchers to detect DNA abnormalities, a problem that increases rapidly with age.
Such abnormalities can thwart successful treatment.
But researchers say larger trials are needed to see how effective the method is.
Researchers also warn the treatment won't work for everyone.
It would not help men with severe infertility who require more advanced treatment.
Australia leads the world in pregnancy and live birth rates through assisted conception - and has had similar technology in place for years.
In Australia, the IVF treatment costs around $8500 per cycle, with a medicare rebate that comes down to around $3500.
"We can currently look at whole sections of genetic materials. What remains to be seen is whether this new technology of a more sophisticated level will actually make a real difference to a patient's outcome," said IVF Medical Director Dr Peter Illingworth.
CHEAPER IVF TREATMENT 'ON THE HORIZON'
Now researchers in Belgium say they have found a way to slash that price to as little as $300.
Much of the cost goes toward maintaining high enough carbon dioxide levels to keep growing embryos alive.
Belgian scientists say they have found a way to do this using inexpensive citric acid and soda bicarbonate.
The technology to make IVF more affordable is still in the beginning stages.
Trials will start in Africa.
