IVF Treatment

What is In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)?

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technology that helps couples who cannot conceive naturally achieve pregnancy. In this process, eggs from the mother-to-be are fertilized with sperm from the father-to-be in a laboratory, and the resulting embryo is transferred to the mother’s uterus. IVF aims to create a healthy pregnancy, and the pregnancy progresses like a naturally conceived one.

Understanding IVF and Who It’s For

Couples who fail to achieve pregnancy after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse (or six months if the woman is over 35) are advised to undergo health evaluations. Natural conception requires a complex interplay of hormones and reproductive organs. The hypothalamus stimulates the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), triggering egg maturation in the ovaries. A mature egg is released into the fallopian tubes, where it can be fertilized by sperm, which can survive in the female body for 4-5 days. If fertilized, the embryo implants in the thickened uterine wall, starting pregnancy.

When reproductive issues prevent natural conception, IVF offers a solution. Eggs and sperm are collected, fertilized in a lab, and the healthiest embryo is transferred to the uterus. A blood test checking Beta HCG levels about two weeks later confirms pregnancy. IVF pregnancies are no different from natural ones in terms of progression.

How is IVF Performed? Key Stages

IVF involves several carefully coordinated steps to maximize the chances of a successful pregnancy. Below are the key stages:

1. Egg Stimulation

Hormone therapy is used to stimulate the ovaries, encouraging multiple eggs to mature, increasing the number of viable eggs for collection.

2. Egg Collection

Once mature, eggs are released from their follicles with a trigger injection and retrieved using transvaginal ultrasound under sedation.

3. Sperm Retrieval

Sperm is collected from the male partner, typically through ejaculation or, if necessary, surgical methods.

4. Fertilization

In the lab, eggs and sperm are combined using either classical IVF (where they are placed together to fertilize naturally) or microinjection (where sperm is injected directly into the egg). The method is chosen based on the couple’s reproductive health.

5. Embryo Transfer

The healthiest embryo is transferred to the mother’s uterus under ultrasound guidance. In some cases, multiple embryos are transferred, which may result in multiple pregnancies. The couple is usually discharged about 30 minutes after the procedure.

IVF Requirements and Considerations

Before starting IVF, the reproductive health of both partners is evaluated. While IVF can be performed at any age before menopause, the success rate decreases after age 40. There is no limit on the number of IVF attempts, but women under 35 should have tried natural conception for a year, and those over 35 for six months, before considering IVF.