Nguyen Thi Ngoc Phuong pioneered IVF technology in Vietnam

Professor Nguyen Thi Ngoc Phuong, former Director of Tu Du Hospital, pioneered in vitro fertilization (IVF) technology in Vietnam during the late 1990s. At a time when national policy focused heavily on family planning and birth prevention, her efforts to introduce reproductive technology were met with skepticism and questioning from local authorities.

Driven by the emotional distress of women facing social pressure due to infertility, Dr. Phuong personally funded the purchase of essential medical supplies, such as needles and test tubes, to establish the foundation for IVF in the country. Over the past 28 years, this medical advancement has grown significantly, facilitating the birth of tens of thousands of children through assisted reproductive technology.