IVF Treatment
Learn about the IVF treatment process, a leading fertility solution that helps couples overcome infertility by facilitating conception through laboratory-assisted procedures.
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a fertility treatment that helps couples facing infertility achieve conception through advanced laboratory-assisted procedures.
The IVF Treatment Process
1. Initial Consultation
The IVF journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where medical histories are reviewed. This step is essential to identify any underlying fertility issues and to determine the most effective treatment plan.
2. Ovulation Stimulation
To maximize the chances of a successful IVF cycle, the woman is often prescribed medications that stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Hormone levels and follicle growth are regularly monitored through blood tests and ultrasounds to identify the optimal time for egg retrieval.
3. Egg Retrieval
Once the eggs have matured, they are retrieved through a minor surgical procedure. This minimally invasive process is typically performed under sedation or anesthesia and usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
4. Sperm Collection
On the same day, a sperm sample is provided. If necessary, specialized methods can be used to collect sperm in cases of male infertility.
5. Fertilization
The retrieved eggs are then fertilized with the collected sperm in a controlled laboratory environment. Fertilization can be achieved through traditional insemination, where eggs and sperm are combined, or via intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), where a single sperm is directly injected into an egg.
6. Embryo Culturing
The fertilized eggs develop into embryos, which are cultured for several days, typically up to 5 days. During this period, the embryologist assesses the embryos’ quality and selects the most viable ones for transfer.
7. Embryo Transfer
High-quality embryos are carefully transferred into the woman’s uterus using a thin catheter inserted through the cervix. The number of embryos transferred will depend on factors such as the woman’s age and overall health.
8. Monitoring and Pregnancy Test
After the embryo transfer, the patient’s progress is monitored throughout the menstrual cycle. A pregnancy test is usually conducted about two weeks later to determine if the procedure was successful.