About IVF
What is IVF?
IVF stands for In Vitro Fertilization. It is a medical procedure used to help people with fertility problems conceive a child. IVF involves several steps, and it is one of the most effective assisted reproductive technologies available.
IVF Process
Ovulation Induction
The woman is typically given medication to stimulate the development of multiple eggs in her ovaries. This is done because having multiple eggs increases the chances of successful fertilization.
Egg Retrieval
When the eggs are mature, a minor surgical procedure is performed to retrieve the eggs from the woman's ovaries. This procedure is usually done under sedation or anesthesia.
Sperm Collection
A sperm sample is collected from the male partner or a sperm donor.
Fertilization
The retrieved eggs are then combined with the sperm in a laboratory dish. This can be done through conventional insemination (placing sperm next to the eggs) or through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), where a single sperm is directly injected into an egg.
Embryo Culture
The fertilized eggs (embryos) are cultured in a controlled environment for a few days to allow them to develop.
Embryo Transfer
One or more of the healthiest embryos are selected and transferred into the woman's uterus. This is typically a simple and minimally invasive procedure.
Pregnancy Test
A pregnancy test is performed approximately 10-14 days after the embryo transfer to determine if the procedure was successful.
IVF can be used to address various fertility issues, including blocked fallopian tubes, male infertility, ovulation disorders, unexplained infertility, and more. It is also sometimes used in cases of genetic disorders to perform preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) on embryos before transfer.
While IVF has helped many couples achieve pregnancy, it’s important to note that it may not be successful in every case, and multiple rounds of treatment may be necessary. Additionally, IVF carries potential risks and can be emotionally and physically demanding, so individuals and couples considering IVF should carefully discuss their options with a fertility specialist and be prepared for the associated challenges.
