What is IVF, and How Does it Work?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in which sperm and an egg are fertilized outside the human body. IVF is a complex procedure that requires taking eggs out of the ovaries and manually mixing sperm and eggs in a lab to fertilize the eggs. The fertilized egg, now known as an embryo, is implanted into a uterus a few days after fertilization; when this embryo embeds itself in the uterine wall, pregnancy results.

The most popular and successful form of assisted reproductive technology (ART) to help individuals get pregnant is in vitro fertilization (IVF). When other methods of conception have been unsuccessful, IVF is used.

For the following reasons, IVF could be an option:

• Natural conception is not possible.
• An individual or couple is identified as having unexplained infertility.
• Aberrant sperm parameters or male factor infertility
• The fallopian tubes of a person are blocked

Process of IVF

IVF, however, often entails these actions:

Superovulation

Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation is another name for superovulation. Both luteinising hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone are included in fertility drugs. The ovaries create more eggs than normal as a result of these hormones. In addition, transvaginal ultrasound scans can track the development of the ovaries’ growth. An alternative is to use frozen or donated eggs.

Retrieving the Eggs Back

To gather eggs, doctors use a minor surgical technique called “follicular aspiration” or “egg retrieval.” First, a tiny needle is placed into an ovary through the vagina with ultrasound guidance. Then, the follicular fluids and the eggs are drawn out using a suction device connected to the needle. Doctors do this procedure for each ovary.

Insemination, Fertilization, and Embryo Culture

The sperm and eggs that were collected were maintained in an environment-controlled room. Therefore, the sperm should penetrate the egg after a short time. Injection of sperm into the egg directly occurs sometimes. A sperm injection into the intracytoplasmic is happening here (ICSI). In addition, it’s possible to use frozen sperm obtained during a testicular biopsy.

The divided fertilized egg develops into an embryo. Preimplantation genetic testing is available at fertility clinics once the embryos are in the blastocyst stage (PGT). First, an embryo is checked for chromosomal flaws or aneuploidies. Next, one embryo is used in the transfer. Finally, the uterine lining is ready for implantation using hormones and drugs.

Embryo Transfer

The womb occasionally receives more than one embryo. You must talk to your doctor about how many embryos will be transplanted. The doctor will often transfer one embryo. Multiple risk concerns must be considered when deciding whether to transfer more than one embryo.

The embryo is transferred using a thin tube or catheter beginning 3–5 days after conception. Then, through the vagina, it enters the uterus. An embryo’s development continues after implantation, the process by which an embryo adheres to the uterine lining.

How Long Does it Take to Complete an IVF Cycle?

IVF is a multi-step, challenging process. Four to six weeks is how long you should anticipate the procedure to take. This encompasses the time before egg retrieval, during which a person takes fertility medicine until a pregnancy test is conducted.

How Prevalent is IVF?

5 percent of infertile couples will attempt IVF. Since 1978, more than 8 million children have been born through IVF. It is among the best assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) out there.

IVF Side Effects

During IVF, many people will have minor or no side effects. However, some individuals could have negative consequences.

• Drowsiness
• Irritation
• Nausea
• Headaches

The following negative effects might also happen to a tiny number of people:

• Breathing difficulties
• Dehydration
• Vomiting
• Stomach discomfort that requires hospitalization

What are the Steps you Should Take to be Ready for IVF?

Before beginning IVF therapy, you must undergo fertility testing and a comprehensive physical examination. Additionally, your partner will undergo testing and examination. You’ll go through the following preparation steps, for example:

• IVF consultation (meet with Doctors to discuss the details of the IVF process).
• Mammography updated Pap test and a uterine exam (if over 40).
• A semen examination.
• Screening for infectious illnesses and STIs (sexually transmitted infections).
• Tests for blood and urine, as well as an ovarian reserve.
• Directions for administering fertility drugs.
• Screening for genetic carriers.
• Complete permission forms.
• Evaluation of the uterine cavity using saline-infused sonography (SIS) or hysteroscopy.
• You should take folic acid supplements at least three months before embryo transfer, as directed by your doctor.

How Effective are IVF Injections?

You’ll be prescribed injectable hormone drugs during your IVF cycle to encourage all of the eggs in that cycle to develop at once and completely. Your Doctor decides the kind of medication, how frequently you should take it, and the required amounts. This is determined by your age, medical history, hormone levels, and, if relevant, how you responded to prior IVF treatments. You should anticipate injecting fertility medication for eight to fourteen days.

What are IVF’s Potential Risks?

The following risks are connected to IVF treatment:

• Premature labor is more likely in pregnancies that result in multiple deliveries.
• Premature birth: Your baby may arrive earlier or with a lower birth weight than usual at a slightly increased risk.
• Miscarriage: The rate of miscarriages is similar to that of natural conception pregnancies.
• A disorder known as ectopic pregnancy occurs when your fertilized egg implants outside your uterus.
• Obstacles encountered when retrieving eggs: During the egg retrieval procedure, there is a risk of bleeding, infection, and injury to your bladder, intestines, or reproductive organs.
• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is an uncommon illness that causes shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, bloating, stomach discomfort, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fast weight gain.

Frequently Asked Questions