On July 25, 1978, Louise Brown became the first ever so-called “test-tube baby.” Her birth was one of the biggest media stories of the 20th century, and she became famous just by being born.
Life as the World's First Test Tube Baby
Produced by Miriam Weintraub Jennifer Oko
On July 25, 1978, Louise Brown became the first ever so-called “test-tube baby,” the first human being ever to be conceived outside of the womb. Her birth was one of the biggest media stories of the 20th century, and she became famous just by being born.
Today, IVF is a common practice in most developed nations, but Brown’s birth was extremely controversial. It sparked a heated ethical debate about the ramifications of creating human life in a laboratory, but it also offered hope to millions of infertile women around the world. Today, more than 6 million people have been born through IVF, and Brown still generates headlines, drawing audiences across the globe. In this Retro Report, she reflects on how her exceptional beginning has helped to shape an otherwise very normal life.
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