Dr. Ioannis Zervomanolakis and Lia Barbaris speak to Marie Claire about the first pregnancy in Greece achieved with the help of artificial intelligence and this groundbreaking new method.
In the latest episode of Vidcast Women by Marie Claire, a personal story of hope and scientific innovation comes to the forefront. 52-year-old Lia Barbaris, with the support of Dr. Ioannis Zervomanolakis and the specialized team at AIVF Athens in the Hygeia IVF Embryogenesis Unit—the first team in Greece to implement a holistic AI approach—managed to become pregnant through the first application of artificial intelligence in an IVF cycle. This innovative technology assesses embryo quality non-invasively and holistically, in real time. The discussion highlights the new possibilities now available for women, the deep psychological dimension of the process, and the hope that emerges through scientific progress.
“Don’t stop dreaming,” she advises women at the beginning of their own journey, while the doctor emphasizes: “Believe in the dream and trust the scientists.” Lia describes her emotion when she first saw her embryos develop in real time through the timelapse system, and the strength she gained from the psychological support of the medical team.
An interview about motherhood without age limits, about technology that empowers women—and about dreams that have no expiration date.
Listen to the conversation:
Click to hear the discussion on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/5EHf9sRJrYvWRL9so9lZEk?utm
Excerpts from the discussion:
How did the idea of integrating AI into such a sensitive process like IVF come about?
I.Z: “We live in 2025. For those who haven’t realized it yet, AI has already ‘knocked on the door’ of every aspect of our lives and has brought a huge revolution to our daily routines. In a sensitive process like IVF, it is clear that AI can help us significantly. This is possible because we now have an extensive collection of data in a very short time—from fertilization to embryo implantation.
During this time, by collecting a comprehensive database, AI can provide valuable information about the quality of each embryo and its likelihood of successful implantation. This can lead to a healthy embryo initially, and eventually a healthy baby nine months later.”
How long does it take for AI to evaluate which embryo is the strongest?
I.Z: “In practice, we monitor embryos using a system called timelapse. This incubator, equipped with a camera, records the development of each embryo from fertilization until transfer to the uterus, five days later. We collect video data and compare it with data from thousands of IVF cycles worldwide. By analyzing this data in real time, we can have a complete picture of each embryo’s development and estimate its potential once transferred.”
How did you meet Lia and how did she join the AIVF Athens team?
L.B: “Dr. Zervomanolakis has been my doctor since 2017, but I hadn’t undergone IVF before. Being a teacher, I am more aware of personal preparation and education. I wanted to proceed with IVF when I felt ready, not 100%, because no one ever feels completely ready. I first went through a journey of self-awareness and self-improvement, and then, trusting the doctor I already knew and his scientific approach, I asked him to help me with IVF.”
Why did you decide to try this innovative method?
“I closely follow technological developments. I knew the doctor’s work was at the forefront of technology and had full trust. This was a conscious choice, not a random one.”
Is this your first pregnancy?
“Yes, and I am very lucky. I was fortunate to conceive on the first attempt.”
How old are you, and how far along is your pregnancy?
“I turned 52 on April 28, and I’m currently in the 15th week of pregnancy.”
Dr. Zervomanolakis: “This gives hope. Women today, not only in Greece, are deciding to become mothers later. We also receive patients from around the world, showing Greece’s reputation as a top IVF destination, alongside Spain.”
What are the main advantages of this method compared to traditional IVF?
I.Z: “The biggest advantage is real-time embryo monitoring. We collect all the necessary data to accurately predict each embryo’s potential. It’s like runners on a track; AI allows us to assess each embryo’s strength. This reduces the time needed to achieve pregnancy. Lia was lucky, but the result wasn’t just luck—it was the careful selection of the strongest embryo using AI.”
When did your team start using this AI method in Athens?
I.Z: “Our unit partnered with AIVF in November last year and started offering this service from mid-January. Lia was very fortunate to proceed at the right moment. This is the first pregnancy in our team using AI.”
How did you experience the process, Lia?
L.B: “I felt confident and optimistic because I trusted the doctor and the team. This alone gave me a sense of security, no matter the challenges.”
How important is psychological support in IVF?
“It’s crucial. First, it’s the woman’s own mindset, and then the support from the medical team. This human aspect makes a huge difference.”
Most emotional moments in the journey?
“Three moments stand out: seeing the embryos develop in timelapse, hearing the baby’s heartbeat for the first time, and seeing the embryo in detail during the nuchal translucency scan.”
Message to women considering IVF:
L.B: “If you’ve thought it through and feel ready for this step toward motherhood, go for it. Whether single or with a partner. Don’t hesitate.”
I.Z: “Believe in the dream and trust the scientists.”
Source: Marie Claire Greece