Malta has seen significant progress in the field of in vitro fertilisation (IVF), with 711 children born through IVF treatments since the establishment of the Embryo Protection Authority (EPA) in 2013. This data was revealed in response to parliamentary questions posed by Labour MP Romilda Zarb to Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela.
Minister Abela confirmed that, as of 2023, 117 prospective parents were expecting 134 babies following successful IVF procedures. The success rate for IVF procedures in 2023 stood at 26.88%, a slight increase from the 26.64% reported in 2022. Although the take-home baby rate for 2024 is still pending, the pregnancy rate for this year has reached a record high of 46.44%. However, Abela cautioned that not all pregnancies will necessarily result in live births.
Zarb also inquired about the government’s policy introduced in 2022, which made medications required for IVF treatment available free of charge. Since the policy was implemented, the government has refunded €2,278,118 to prospective parents for 721 IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injections (ICSI), 521 embryo transfers, and 100 intra-uterine inseminations (IUI).
The Embryo Protection Authority was established as part of the Embryo Protection Act, which came into force on January 1, 2013, after a lengthy and contentious debate. Initially, the law allowed the freezing of unfertilised eggs and allowed embryo freezing only in exceptional circumstances. Over time, the law was reformed to expand access to IVF, including for single women and same-sex couples, and to permit gamete donation under strict regulations.
This expansion of IVF services and the broader policy changes reflect Malta’s evolving approach to reproductive healthcare, balancing ethical considerations with increasing accessibility for families seeking assistance with conception.
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