IVF, or in-vitro fertilization, is a medical procedure that helps couples who are struggling with infertility. It involves fertilizing an egg with sperm outside of the body and then inserting the embryo into the woman’s womb.

IVF is a complex process with a lot of different steps, and it’s important to understand what it involves, who it’s for, and what to expect.

Who is IVF For?

IVF is typically used when other fertility treatments have failed or when the infertility is caused by issues with the woman’s reproductive system, such as blocked or damaged fallopian tubes.

It may also be used in cases where the man has low sperm count or poor sperm quality or when there are unexplained infertility issues.

IVF may also be used by couples who are at risk for passing on genetic disorders to their offspring. In these cases, embryos are screened for genetic abnormalities before being implanted.

The IVF Process: What to Expect

Step 1: Ovarian Stimulation

The first step in the IVF process is ovarian stimulation. The woman is given medication to stimulate her ovaries to produce multiple eggs.

The eggs are then monitored using ultrasound and blood tests to determine when they are mature enough to be retrieved.

Step 2: Egg Retrieval

During the egg retrieval, the woman is sedated, and a needle is inserted through the vaginal wall to retrieve the eggs. The eggs are then placed in a culture dish in the laboratory and fertilized with sperm.

Step 3: Fertilization

The sperm and eggs are mixed together in a laboratory dish, and the fertilization process begins. The fertilized eggs (embryos) are monitored for several days to ensure they are developing properly.

Step 4: Embryo Transfer

Once the embryos have developed to a certain stage, they are ready to be transferred to the woman’s uterus. This is a fairly simple procedure and does not require anesthesia.

The doctor uses a thin catheter to insert the embryo(s) into the uterus, and the woman is instructed to rest for a short time afterward.

Risks and Success Rates of IVF

Like any medical procedure, IVF does come with risks. Possible complications include infection, bleeding, and damage to the bladder or bowel during egg retrieval.

There is also a slight risk of multiple pregnancies, which can lead to complications such as premature birth.

However, IVF has a high success rate, especially for women under 35. The success rate decreases with age, but even older women have a good chance of conceiving using IVF.