In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF): What to Expect from Start to Finish

Infertility has become a global concern today, with cases rising more and more everyday. Conceiving naturally is becoming a significant challenge for millions across the world. In these dark times, In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF), the best known possible ART technique available to humans today, has become a ray of hope for many. Knowing the steps of IVF for couples trying to conceive through ART can be very helpful.
- Initial Consultation and Diagnosis : Couples unable to conceive naturally first need to consult with a fertility specialist, who can help them in evaluating and undergoing a series of tests to assess various bodily internal parameters like egg reserve, sperm health, hormone levels, uterine conditions etc. Once the results are out, the specialist, based on it, will advise a personalised treatment plan.
- Ovarian Stimulation: As egg reserves in women decrease with age, the specialist will first try to increase the chance of success by stimulating the ovaries using hormone injections to produce multiple mature eggs. This process can take nearly 12-14 days. The doctor may also suggest regular ultra sounds and blood tests to monitor the progress.
- Retreaving Eggs: Once the eggs are ready, the doctor will now go for an ovum pick-up (OPU), that is retrieving the eggs with a small or minor surgical procedure under anesthesia. Parallely, a sperm sample is also collected from the male partner or donor, and sent for analysis.
- Fertilisation & Developing Embryo: Once the eggs are retrieved and the sperm is analysed, they are allowed to combine to allow fertilisation. In certain cases the doctor may use an ICSI process to inject a single sperm into each single egg. Now the embryos (fertilised eggs) that have formed, are kept for monitoring in the lab for nearly 3-5 days.
- Embryo Transfer: Once the embryos are ready, the doctor will then transfer the best quality embryo into the uterus, using a thin catheter, in a painless outpatient procedure. The Doctor might freeze the remaining healthy embryos for future use.
- The Pregnancy Test: Two weeks after the embryo transfer, the doctor might advise a blood test to check for pregnancy.
Yes, IVF can be physically, emotionally & financially challenging, but understanding the process and its outcomes can help reduce stress. Though success rates may vary upon various factors, including age, fertility issues, and clinical expertise, it still is the best possible ART technique today for couples unable to achieve or conceive naturally. Millions across the globe till date have achieved parenthood with IVF, and you will too, if you are struggling to conceive naturally. Just give a call or whats app us on (+91) 837 500 8561.