IVF Treatment – In Vitro Fertilization

What is IVF?

IVF Process

During the IVF procedure, mature eggs are collected (retrieved) from ovaries and fertilized by sperm in a lab. Then the fertilized egg (embryo) or eggs (embryos) are transferred to a uterus. One full cycle of IVF takes about three weeks. Sometimes these steps are split into different parts and the process can take longer.

IVF can be done using a couple’s own eggs and sperm. However, in some cases IVF may involve eggs, sperm or embryos from a known or anonymous donor. In some cases, a gestational carrier or someone who has an embryo implanted in the uterus might be used, depending on many factors.

The chances of having a healthy baby using IVF depend on many factors, such as the maternal age and the cause of infertility. Also, if more than one embryo is transferred to the uterus, IVF can result in a pregnancy with more than one fetus (multiple pregnancy).

Why would I Need IVF?

IVF is used to treat infertility and help a couple conceive a healthy child. It is also one of the most primary treatments for women above the age of 40 who want to have a baby.

IVF may also be recommended if a couple may be facing one or more of the following issues:

• Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
• Ovulation disorders
• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Previous tubal sterilization or removal
• Problems with sperm production or function
• Unexplained infertility
• Genetic disorder/s
• Cancer or other health conditions

IVF Preparation

• Ovarian Reserve Testing: The doctor may test the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol (estrogen) and anti-mullerian hormone in your blood during the first few days of your menstrual cycle to determine the quality and quantity of eggs.
• Semen analysis: If not done as part of your initial fertility evaluation, your doctor will conduct a semen analysis shortly before the start of an IVF treatment cycle.
• Infectious disease screening: You and your partner will both be screened for infectious diseases, including HIV.
• Mock embryo transfer: Your doctor might conduct a mock embryo transfer to determine the depth of your uterine cavity and the technique most likely to successfully place the embryos into your uterus.
• Uterine examination: This involves examining the lining inside the uterus before starting IVF. This might involve a sonohysterography or hysteroscopy in which fluid is injected through the cervix into your uterus and an ultrasound to create images of your uterine cavity.

IVF Procedure

• How many embryos will be transferred?
• What will the doctor do with the extra embryos?
• How will a multiple pregnancy be handled?
• Possibility of donor eggs, sperms, embryos, and gestational carriers

Side Effects of In Vitro Fertilization

After the embryo transfer, you can resume your usual daily activities. However, your ovaries may still be enlarged. One must consider avoiding vigorous activity, which could cause discomfort. 

A few other typical side effects of IVF include:

• Passing a small amount of clear or bloody fluid shortly after the procedure. This happens due to the swabbing of the cervix before the embryo transfer
• Breast tenderness due to high estrogen levels
• Mild bloating
• Mild cramping
• Constipation

However, if you develop any severe pain after the embryo transfer, you must immediately contact your doctor. The doctor will then evaluate you for complications such as infection, twisting of an ovary (ovarian torsion) and severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.

IVF Treatment Cost

A time consuming but effective procedure, IVF is a viable option for those with complex medical conditions and factors to achieve a successful pregnancy.