Sri Lanka is set to introduce test-tube baby treatment, also known as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), at the Castle Street Hospital for Women in Colombo, marking the first time such advanced fertility services will be offered at a government hospital.

Director of the Castle Street Hospital for Women, Dr. Ajith Kumara Danthanarayana, said the initiative would greatly expand access to fertility care through the public healthcare system.

He noted that the new IVF facility is expected to become operational within the next three months, describing it as an important milestone in strengthening reproductive health services in state hospitals.

“Our aim is to ensure that couples who cannot afford costly private treatment are given a fair opportunity to fulfil their dream of parenthood,” Dr. Danthanarayana said.

Currently, test-tube baby services are available only at a limited number of private hospitals in Sri Lanka, with treatment costs ranging from Rs. 2 million to Rs. 3 million per cycle.

IVF involves fertilising an egg with sperm outside the body in a laboratory and transferring the resulting embryo to the uterus. The procedure is commonly used to treat infertility caused by factors such as blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count, hormonal disorders, or unexplained infertility.

Health experts say the introduction of IVF services in the public sector is vital, as infertility affects a growing number of couples and often carries significant emotional and social consequences.