Womb Transplants Performed In Sweden Catch Attention Of LA Fertility Specialists
STUDIO CITY (CBSLA.com) — Womb transplants performed in Sweden are catching the attention of fertility specialists in Los Angeles.
"It's a very fascinating study. You know, transplant as a science is growing," Dr. Tina Koopersmith said.
The study follows nine Swedish women who have successfully received a transplanted uterus donated from relatives so they can give birth to their own children.
The procedure is for women who were born without a uterus or have had the uterus removed because of a serious illness.
Koopersmith, however, said there could be risks just like any other organ transplant.
"It's just like someone who gets a heart transplant or a kidney transplant. These women may have a reaction to this uterus, which is not their uterus," she said.
There have been two previous attempts of the procedure in Turkey and Saudi Arabia, but both failed to produce babies.
The study in Sweden using live donors is a bit controversial, but some doctors said it could be the future in fertility.
"Fertility is a huge emotional thing for women, and to be able to provide a way for them to carry a baby…it's really a huge leap forward, I think. But, again, it's in its infancy," Koopersmith said.
KCAL9's Brittney Hopper said the women in the study have to take anti-rejection drugs, but babies shouldn't be at risk.