Trials will soon begin in the UK of a “silicon womb” that allows test-tube embryos created in the lab to be incubated inside a perforated silicon container inserted into a woman’s own womb for several days.

They are then removed and selected for implantation in the womb.

Embryos incubated in the lab must have their growth medium changed every few hours to provide new nutrients and get rid of waste. The new device provides a more natural environment. Researchers say the new device may produce better quality embryos and reduce the need to harvest so many eggs from infertile women.