Infertility is a major concern for many couples, and in some cases, the only solution may be to pursue IVF. Learn from this article what the process entails and why it’s beneficial for such couples.
What is IVF?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a process of fertilization where an egg is combined with sperm outside the body, in contrast to natural fertilization which occurs inside the body.
What is the Process of IVF?
The process of IVF can be divided into four main steps:
- Ovarian stimulation: In order to mature multiple eggs for fertilization, ovarian stimulation is necessary. This step involves administering hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) to the patient through injections.
- Egg retrieval: Once the eggs have reached a certain level of maturity, they are then retrieved from the ovaries through a minor surgical procedure called transvaginal ultrasound aspiration.
- Fertilization: The retrieved eggs are then placed in a dish with sperm and incubated overnight. This process allows the sperm to fertilize the eggs, which results in the formation of embryos.
- Embryo transfer: The embryos that have resulted from fertilization are then transferred to the uterus through a catheter, where they will implant and grow into a pregnancy.
How to Prepare for an IVF Cycle?
If you’re considering in vitro fertilization (IVF), it’s important to understand the process and what you can do to prepare for it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to IVF:
- Talk to your doctor. Before you begin the IVF process, it’s important to meet with your doctor to discuss your medical history and any factors that may affect your treatment.
- Stimulate egg production. In order to fertilize eggs, they must first be collected from your ovaries. This is done through a process of stimulating egg production with fertility drugs.
- Collect eggs. Once your eggs have been stimulated, they will be collected through a minor surgical procedure called follicular aspiration.
- Prepare the sperm sample. In order for fertilization to occur, a sperm sample will need to be prepared. This usually involves a simple washing and filtering process.
- Fertilize the eggs. The eggs and sperm will then be combined in a laboratory dish, where fertilization will take place.
- Transfer the embryos. Once the eggs have been fertilized, they will be transferred to your uterus through a thin catheter. This is typically done.
How long does a FET Take?
A FET, or frozen embryo transfer, is a type of in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure in which embryos that were previously frozen are thawed and transferred to the uterus.
FETs are often used when a woman has undergone IVF but did not conceive as a result of the fresh embryo transfer. They may also be used if a woman has had previous IVF cycles but has not been successful in conceiving.
The FET process typically takes place over the course of two to three weeks. The first step is to thaw the frozen embryos. This is done by slowly warming them to room temperature over the course of an hour.
Once the embryos have been thawed, they are transferred to the uterus through a catheter. The transfer itself takes only a few minutes, and you will likely be able to go home shortly after the procedure is completed.
In most cases, you will be asked to take progesterone supplements for 10-12 days after the transfer. Progesterone helps prepare the lining of the uterus for implantation and maintains a pregnancy in its early stages.
Conclusion
We hope this article has given you a better understanding of the process of IVF and what to expect at each step. IVF can be a complex and emotional journey, but it can also be an incredibly rewarding one. If you are considering IVF, we encourage you to speak with your doctor to get more information and to make sure it is the right decision for you.
