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Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into in vitro fertilization (IVF) process can offer several benefits, including improving success rates and making fertility treatments accessible and affordable, according to Abhishek Aggrawal, chief business officer, Birla Fertility & IVF, CK Birla Group.
IVF is a complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child. During IVF, mature eggs are collected or retrieved from ovaries and fertilized by sperm in a lab.
Aggrawal further explains that AI can enhance the success rates of IVF procedures by optimizing treatment plans and embryo selection. This means patients may require fewer cycles to achieve pregnancy, reducing overall costs. AI can also tailor treatment plans to individual patients, potentially reducing the need for expensive and invasive procedures that may not be necessary for all patients.
Today, AI-enabled telehealth solutions can allow patients to receive some monitoring and consultations remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and travel costs. Administrative tasks and clinic operations can be streamlined through AI, potentially lowering overhead costs and, in turn, the cost of treatment.
Talking further about how AI can be integrated into the IVF process to improve the success rates of fertility clinics, Aggrawal says that AI can analyse patient data, including medical history, hormone levels, and genetic information, to predict the likelihood of IVF success. This helps clinicians customise treatment plans for each patient, increasing the chances of success.AI algorithms can monitor and analyse patient cycles in real-time, providing insights into the optimal timing for procedures and adjustments to treatment plans if needed. AI can also predict the best time for embryo transfer based on a patient's hormonal levels and other factors, increasing the likelihood of successful implantation.
Highlighting the role in Embryo Selection, Aggrawal informs that AI-powered image analysis can evaluate the quality of embryos more accurately than manual assessments. This ensures that the healthiest embryos are selected for implantation, leading to higher success rates. AI can analyse time-lapse images of embryos to assess their development over time, helping embryologists make informed decisions about which embryos to use.
“AI can also assist in genetic screening of embryos to identify potential genetic abnormalities, improving the selection of healthy embryos for transfer. It has also opened avenues for personalised treatment plans. AI can simulate various treatment scenarios based on patient data, helping clinicians determine the most effective and cost-efficient treatment plans. AI can suggest personalised medication dosages and schedules to improve the response of patients to fertility drugs,” Aggrawal further adds.
AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can provide patients with round-the-clock support, answering questions, providing educational content, and offering emotional support. AI can help clinics engage with patients through personalised communication, appointment reminders, and progress tracking.
“Last but not the least is the quality control and data security aspect. Through lab monitoring, AI can monitor the conditions in the IVF laboratory, ensuring that all parameters are optimal for embryo development. Any deviations can trigger alerts to lab personnel. AI can enhance data security, ensuring the protection of sensitive patient information and compliance with privacy regulations,” Aggrawal said.
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