In vitro fertilization, or IVF is one of the many technologies associated with assisted reproduction, which, though complex and popular, helps childless couples conceive. Knowing how IVF is done, some of these anxieties and uncertainties are associated with the process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how it is done:
Ovarian Stimulation
The first stage of in vitro fertilization is ovarian stimulation. This is to stimulate ovaries to develop multiple eggs within one cycle, thus increasing the possibilities of success. The treatment is usually administered through the provision of medications containing fertility hormones such as Follicle Stimulating Hormone, commonly referred to as FSH, and Luteinizing Hormone, commonly referred to as LH. These hormones stimulate the ovaries to develop more eggs compared to those developed in a regular cycle.
Monitoring and Trigger Shot
Monitoring should be performed frequently throughout stimulation. Monitoring with ultrasounds and blood tests are performed in order to follow the growth and development of the follicles sacs in the ovaries that contain the eggs. Once the follicles reach the right size, a trigger shot is given to mature the eggs and ready them for retrieval.
Egg Retrieval
Egg retrieval is done within about 34-36 hours of the trigger shot. This is a minor surgical procedure that is done under short general anaesthesia. A thin needle guided with ultrasound is moved through the wall of the vagina into the ovaries in order to retrieve the eggs. In all, this takes about 10-15 minutes and most patients go home the same day.
Sperm Collection
On the day of egg retrieval, a semen sample is provided by the male partner. The seminal fluid is treated in the laboratory with the purpose of sorting the most appropriate and active sperm necessary for fertilization.
Fertilization
When the eggs and sperm are ready, fertilization is done in the lab. There are mainly two methods of fertilization in IVF:
Conventional IVF: The eggs are added to sperm and left with them overnight to fertilize in their own time.
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection: A single sperm is directly injected into each mature egg, it is usually used in cases of male infertility.
Embryo Development
After fertilization, the embryos are then cultured for some days in the laboratory. Their development is closely monitored during this period. The best embryos are then selected for uterine transfer.
Embryo Transfer
The actual transfer of the embryo is a relatively painless procedure without the use of anesthesia, the chosen embryo(s) is inserted into the uterus by means of a fine catheter. The number of embryos to be transferred depends on many factors, one of which is the woman’s age, as well as the quality of the embryos.
Luteal Phase Support
Later on, drugs like progesterone to supplement the uterine lining are given to support a pregnancy during its initial stages of growth. This step is very important for implantation and for an early pregnancy.
Pregnancy Test
The pregnancy test will be done via a blood test taken around 14-15 days following embryo transfer. If pregnancy results, close monitoring during the early weeks will be initiated to ensure that everything goes as expected.
FAQs
The whole procedure of IVF, right from the commencement of ovarian stimulation to the pregnancy test, lasts about 4-6 weeks. However, this again may vary depending upon the case.
2. Does it hurt to have IVF?
While some aspects of the IVF procedure are painful, most procedures involved in the IVF process are under sedation or anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Some women experience mild cramping or bloating during ovarian stimulation and immediately after egg retrieval.
3. What are the chances that the IVF will succeed?
Success rates for IVF depend on a variety of factors, namely the woman’s age, the cause of infertility, and the quality of the embryos. On average, the success rate for women under 35 years of age is about 30-50%, with decreased rates in older women.
4. Are there risks involved in undergoing IVF?
However, like any other medical treatment, IVF too comprises a few risks: OHSS, multiple pregnancies, and at times complications during retrieval of the eggs. However, serious complications are rare and most women have pretty smooth IVF treatment.
5. Does modification in Lifestyle help in successful IVF?
Indeed, a healthy life pattern improves the outcome after IVF treatment. Wholesome nutrition, not smoking abstaining from excessive drinking, minimizing stress, and keeping weight under control can be recommended in this respect.
Read more like this: Success Symptoms of IVF: Signs Your IVF Treatment May Work
