In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a widely used assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedure that involves fertilizing an egg with sperm outside the body in a laboratory setting. IVF is typically recommended for couples with infertility due to various factors, including tubal factor infertility, severe male factor infertility, endometriosis, ovulation disorders, or unexplained infertility. Here's an overview of the IVF treatment process:
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The IVF process begins with ovarian stimulation, where the woman undergoes hormone injections (gonadotropins) for about 8-14 days to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs. Ovarian stimulation is monitored closely through:
Once the follicles containing mature eggs reach the appropriate size, a trigger shot of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) or a GnRH agonist is administered to induce final egg maturation. Approximately 36 hours later, the eggs are retrieved from the ovaries using a minimally invasive surgical procedure called transvaginal ultrasound-guided follicle aspiration. This procedure involves:
On the day of egg retrieval, the male partner provides a semen sample through masturbation. Alternatively, sperm may be obtained from a sperm donor or retrieved surgically from the testes (testicular sperm extraction, TESE) in cases of severe male factor infertility. The sperm sample is processed in the laboratory through sperm washing to:
The retrieved eggs and prepared sperm are combined in a culture dish in the laboratory for fertilization to occur. Fertilization can be achieved through:
After fertilization, the embryos are cultured in a special incubator under controlled conditions to allow them to develop and grow. Embryo development is monitored closely over the next few days to assess embryo quality and progression.
Typically, after 3-5 days of embryo culture, one or more high-quality embryos are selected for transfer into the woman's uterus. The embryo transfer procedure is performed in the clinic without anesthesia. This involves:
Following embryo transfer, the woman may be prescribed progesterone supplements to support the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and improve the chances of embryo implantation.
Approximately two weeks after embryo transfer, the woman undergoes a pregnancy test to determine if implantation has occurred. If the pregnancy test is positive, further monitoring and prenatal care are initiated. If the pregnancy test is negative, the couple may discuss further fertility treatment options with their healthcare provider.
IVF success rates can vary depending on factors such as the woman's age, the quality of eggs and sperm, the number and quality of embryos transferred, and the clinic's expertise and protocols. Couples considering IVF should discuss the potential benefits, risks, and success rates with their healthcare provider to determine if it is the right treatment option for their individual circumstances.
At Bliss IVF, our experienced team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care and personalized treatment plans to help you achieve your dream of parenthood. We are committed to guiding you through every step of your fertility treatment journey with compassion and expertise.
