Reproductive medicine experts discuss IVF advancements and declining fertility in Turkey

At the 5th Scientific Meeting of the Turkish Society of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery (TÜBİD), experts discussed the rapid evolution of IVF technologies and the demographic challenges facing Turkey.

Prof. Dr. Bülent Tıraş, President of TÜBİD, highlighted a significant decline in Turkey’s total fertility rate, which has dropped from approximately 2.4 to 1.4 over the last 30 years. He also noted that the average age of first marriage has risen to 27.4, reaching up to 30 in certain cities. To address these trends, TÜBİD is working with the Ministry of Health to propose new recommendations regarding age criteria and state support to improve access to IVF treatments.

Technological advancements are also reshaping the field. The integration of robotics, artificial intelligence, and gene-editing technologies is expected to transform embryology and the management of hereditary diseases within the next five years. Experts emphasized that while technology is advancing, metabolic health and weight remain critical factors for successful pregnancies.