Understanding Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Procedures

ART involves medical procedures that help individuals achieve pregnancy. These treatments focus on manipulating eggs and sperm to improve the chances of fertilization. ART is often used when other female infertility treatments have not been successful or are not suitable.

People considering ART usually speak with a healthcare provider and may need a referral to a fertility specialist to explore available options. Although ART primarily addresses infertility, some individuals choose it for genetic reasons or to reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy. It is also known as fertility treatment or medically assisted reproduction.

ART Definition

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) refers to a medical process in which fertilization occurs outside the body, and the resulting embryo is placed into the woman’s uterus. The first successful In Vitro fertilization (IVF) took place in England in 1978. Since then, significant advancements have been made, and several modern techniques are now available to support couples facing fertility challenges. Despite these developments, IVF remains the most commonly used ART method.

Which ART Procedures are Available?

Modern Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) provides several procedures designed to help individuals and couples overcome fertility challenges. Each method targets specific causes of infertility and can be customized based on individual medical conditions or personal preferences. The following are some of the most commonly used ART techniques.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) 

This is the most effective method of ART and is the most common. The procedure involves multiple steps. The woman is first given hormone therapy to induce the production of more than one egg. The mature eggs are harvested and combined with the sperm of her partner in a laboratory dish. This procedure produces more than one fertilised embryo. These embryos are transferred into the woman’s uterus. If there are more embryos than necessary, they will be frozen for later use, if needed. Once the embryos implant in the uterus, conception is complete.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

This is also an IVF treatment, but with a step that helps overcome male factor infertility. In this procedure, a single sperm is injected into a mature, harvested egg instead of just placing eggs and sperm in a petri dish as is done in conventional IVF. This increases the chance of fertilisation even if there is a problem with the sperm.

Intraauterine Insemination (IUI)

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment that helps increase the chances of pregnancy. During the procedure, healthcare providers place specially prepared sperm directly into the uterus, where pregnancy naturally develops. This method is also known as artificial insemination.

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a screening process that examines embryos created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) for genetic abnormalities before implantation. This procedure helps identify healthy embryos, improves the chances of a successful pregnancy, and reduces the risk of inherited genetic conditions.

Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT)

Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT), also known as tubal embryo transfer. It is a fertility treatment that involves placing a fertilized egg (zygote) into the fallopian tube, rather than the uterus, as is done in In-Vitro fertilization (IVF). Doctors use this procedure to help couples facing infertility caused by blocked or damaged fallopian tubes that prevent natural fertilization.

Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT)

Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT) is a type of assisted reproductive technology in which doctors collect eggs from the ovaries and place them together with sperm directly into the fallopian tubes. This allows fertilization to occur naturally within the body. Unlike IVF, where fertilization occurs in a lab, GIFT supports natural fertilization within the reproductive system.

ART procedures can also help couples with genetic problems. Donor eggs or sperm are used when either the woman or the man has a genetic condition that can be passed on to their babies. If the woman or man suffers from infertility, donor eggs or sperm can be used to create embryos. If the couple is infertile, donor embryos can be used, but the baby will not be genetically related to the parents.

ART is a boon for couples facing fertility issues. Dr. Rela Hospital is one of the best centres for infertility treatment. Advanced procedures, a renowned fertility expert, sophisticated technology, and a caring environment are the hallmarks of our service. We have an excellent record of a 50% to 60% success rate in IVF procedures.

If you have any fertility issues, you can call the fertility help line number – 9384061582.