① The first pregnant woman in China to use the CAPA-IVM protocol has given birth at a hospital under Jin Xin Reproductive Healthcare (01951.HK). ② Because it eliminates the need for ovarian stimulation, the CAPA-IVM protocol is more cost-effective and safer compared to conventional IVF (in vitro fertilization) procedures.
Caixin News, June 1 (Reporter: He Fan) — On the eve of the 77th International Children's Day, China’s assisted reproductive technology has achieved a new breakthrough. On the afternoon of May 31, the first baby conceived via the CAPA-IVM protocol (Capacitation-In Vitro Maturation, a biphasic in vitro maturation technique for immature oocytes) was born at a hospital operated by Jin Xin Reproductive Healthcare (01951.HK). Dr. Li Yuan, Chief Medical Officer of the company, told Caixin that because this protocol eliminates the need for ovarian stimulation drugs, it is more economical than conventional IVF procedures.
The core of CAPA-IVM technology involves retrieving immature oocytes from ovaries that have not been pharmacologically stimulated. These immature oocytes are then matured in an embryology laboratory by simulating the natural intra-ovarian environment that supports oocyte development. Once matured, they undergo in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer to achieve pregnancy. This approach reduces the time, effort, and medical costs associated with injections and ovarian stimulation for patients.
It is reported that the patient, currently 30 years old, suffers from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). She underwent oocyte retrieval using the CAPA-IVM protocol in July 2025 and successfully conceived in September. Her attending physician explained, “Prior to coming to our hospital, she had undergone several cycles of ovarian stimulation at other institutions but failed to conceive. Upon arrival, we initially arranged outpatient monitoring of ovarian stimulation; however, despite both oral medications and injectable stimulation, her follicles showed no response. Fortunately, the CAPA-IVM clinical trial was recruiting volunteers at the time, and she expressed strong interest in participating. Following oocyte retrieval, multiple oocytes were obtained. After in vitro maturation and fertilization in the lab, one blastocyst was developed and transferred the following month.”
CAPA-IVM stands for 'Capacitation-In Vitro Maturation,' a biphasic in vitro maturation technique for immature oocytes. This method retrieves immature 'small oocytes' from unstimulated ovaries and matures them in the laboratory by replicating the natural intra-ovarian environment that supports oocyte development. Compared with conventional IVF (In Vitro Fertilization, commonly known as 'test-tube baby' technology), CAPA-IVM introduces two critical enhancements: first, a 'pre-IVM culture' phase that provides oocytes with a preparatory period to develop more fully by mimicking the in vivo environment; and second, the addition of 'CNP treatment' (C-type natriuretic peptide), which helps maintain communication between the oocyte and surrounding somatic cells, preventing premature maturation. This biphasic culture system effectively improves oocyte maturation and fertilization rates, thereby increasing the likelihood of successful pregnancy.
According to Dr. Li Yuan, the primary advantage of CAPA-IVM over conventional IVF is the elimination of ovarian stimulation. 'Approximately 20% of patients are high responders—such as those with polycystic ovary syndrome—who are at risk of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) during conventional stimulation, leading to complications like abdominal distension and ascites, increased medical burden, and greater workload for clinicians. Although current medical research does not indicate significant long-term risks from repeated ovarian stimulation, many patients remain concerned about potential health implications. Moreover, avoiding stimulation reduces the number of hospital visits required.' Dr. Li added, 'The birth of China’s first CAPA-IVM baby marks a milestone demonstrating that Chinese reproductive medicine has reached world-leading standards. In fact, whether in conventional IVF or emerging technologies, we have always maintained a leading position.'
Dr. Li Yuan stated that, based on the hospital’s current data, the in vitro maturation rate of retrieved oocytes ranges from 60% to 65%, yielding an average of two blastocysts per patient. Subsequent pregnancy rates are comparable to those achieved with conventional IVF.
Regarding pricing—a key concern for both the market and the public—Dr. Li Yuan disclosed in her interview with Caixin that CAPA-IVM reduces costs by eliminating ovarian stimulation expenses. Depending on the specific medication and protocol used by the physician, patients can save between RMB 1,000 and RMB 10,000. The cost of the in vitro maturation culture phase in the laboratory is approximately RMB 1,000. 'From a technical standpoint, oocyte retrieval remains a major challenge in CAPA-IVM, but this can be overcome through repeated training to ensure physician proficiency,' she noted.