In vitro fertilisation (IVF) has become a beacon of hope for couples facing fertility challenges. Whether you are exploring IVF for the first time or looking for detailed information, understanding the IVF process can help you make informed decisions. In this article, we will walk you through each step of the IVF journey, from initial consultation to embryo transfer.
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Step 1: Initial Consultation and Assessment
Before starting IVF, a fertility specialist will conduct a thorough medical evaluation. This includes:
- Reviewing your medical history.
- Conducting blood tests and hormonal assessments.
- Performing ultrasound scans to check ovarian reserve and uterine health.
This step ensures that IVF is a suitable option for you and helps tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs.
Step 2: Ovarian Stimulation
To increase the chances of success, hormonal medications are prescribed to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. The types of medications used may include:
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) injections.
- Regular monitoring through blood tests and ultrasound scans to track follicle development.
Step 3: Egg Retrieval (Oocyte Retrieval)
Once the follicles reach an optimal size, an injection known as the “trigger shot” is administered to mature the eggs. Egg retrieval is then scheduled, which involves:
- A minimally invasive procedure performed under mild sedation.
- Using an ultrasound-guided needle to collect the eggs from the ovaries.
- Resting for a few hours post-procedure before returning home.
Step 4: Sperm Collection and Fertilisation
On the same day as egg retrieval, a sperm sample is collected from the male partner or a sperm donor. The fertilisation process involves:
- Conventional insemination: Mixing eggs and sperm in a lab dish
- Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI): Injecting a single sperm directly into an egg (used in cases of male infertility)
The fertilised eggs (embryos) are then monitored for development over the next few days.
Step 5: Embryo Transfer
Once the embryos have developed, the healthiest ones are selected for transfer into the uterus. This process involves:
- A simple and painless procedure using a thin catheter to place the embryo into the uterine lining.
- No anaesthesia required, and patients can resume normal activities shortly after.
Step 6: The Two-Week Wait and Pregnancy Test
After embryo transfer, patients must wait approximately two weeks before taking a pregnancy test. During this time:
- Progesterone supplements may be prescribed to support implantation.
- Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities and manage stress levels.
A blood test is conducted to confirm pregnancy, and if successful, an ultrasound is scheduled to monitor early foetal development.
What Happens Next?
If the IVF cycle is successful, regular prenatal care begins. If implantation does not occur, the fertility specialist may discuss options, including another cycle or alternative treatments.
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.