Under The Microscope

by Elizabeth Carr

In December 1981 Elizabeth Carr was the first person born through IVF in the USA. They called her a "test tube baby". She was in the spotlight from three cells old when pictures taken with a microscope showed the cells dividing that were to become her.

Her breakthrough birth meant she was under scrutiny growing up and now she is an advocate for patients seeking fertility treatment.

Forty years on she reflects on how being at the center of a scientific breakthrough has impacted on her life and changed the world.

With additional historic context provided by UK-based IVF historian, Martin Powell, this book examines the issues that face those working on fertility and how the world reacts to scientific advancement.

92 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2022

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Reviews

[Pete · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elizabeth's story is compelling not because of the technology that enabled her birth but because of who she is and the love, strength, and courage of her parents. Because of what the Carr family was willing to do to bring their love into the world in the form of a child, countless families were made possible. Approachable and deeply human, this short book is a must-read to understand the history and impact of IVF and ART.

[Tracy Martino-Hsu · Rating 5 out of 5]

A unique look at history, through a personal story like no other!
Elizabeth Carr shares logistical details her parents encountered being the first couple to have successful IVF in the USA. Ms. Cares ability to explain the science and tell her story so candidly sets this book apart from others about IVF. You will find her a relatable as a woman and undeniably a skilled journalist and writer.
If IVF has touched your life, pick this book up!