What is In vitro fertilization (IVF)?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child.
An IVF procedure involves retrieving mature eggs from the ovaries and fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory. A fertilized egg (embryo) or eggs (embryos) are then transferred to the uterus. It takes 4-6 weeks to complete one cycle of IVF. Sometimes these steps are broken down into different parts and the process takes longer.
In terms of assisted reproductive technology, IVF is the most effective. Couples can use their own eggs and sperm in the procedure. It is also possible to use eggs, sperm, or embryos from an anonymous or known donor during IVF. Sometimes, altruistic surrogacy is used.
There are many factors that influence your chances of having a healthy baby through IVF, including your age and the cause of your infertility. Additionally, IVF can be time-consuming, expensive, and invasive. Multiple pregnancies may result from the transfer of more than one embryo to the uterus during IVF.
When IVF Treatment is Recommended?
IVF is used to treat infertility and genetic disorders. IVF can be used to treat infertility, but before attempting IVF, you and your partner might be able to try less-invasive treatment options, such as fertility drugs to increase egg production or intrauterine insemination, which involves placing sperm directly into the uterus near ovulation.
Infertility in women over 40 may be treated with IVF as a primary treatment. You can also undergo IVF if you suffer from certain health conditions. IVF may be an option for you or your partner if you or your partner have:
- Damaged or blocked fallopian tubes. A blocked or damaged fallopian tube makes it difficult for an egg to be fertilized or for an embryo to reach the uterus.
- Disorders of ovulation. A lack of ovulation results in fewer eggs available for fertilization.
- An endometrial condition. As a result of endometriosis, tissue similar to the uterus lining implants outside of the uterus and affects the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes.
- Fibroids in the uterus. Fibroids are benign tumors that grow in the uterus. Women in their 30s and 40s are most likely to suffer from them.
- Sperm production or function is impaired. Low sperm concentration, weak sperm movement, or abnormal sperm size and shape may make it difficult for sperm to fertilize an egg. Infertility specialists from Shukan Hospital may need to be consulted if abnormalities are found in the semen to determine whether they are correctable or if there are underlying health concerns.
- Tubal sterilization or removal in the past. A tubal ligation is a type of sterilization that permanently prevents pregnancy by cutting or blocking fallopian tubes. After tubal ligation, IVF may be an alternative to tubal ligation reversal surgery if you wish to conceive.
- Genetic disorders. A preimplantation genetic test, which involves IVF, may be appropriate if you or your partner are at risk for passing on a genetic disorder. Following egg harvesting and fertilization, the eggs are screened for genetic problems, although not all genetic problems can be detected. An embryo that has no identified problems can be transferred to a uterus.
- Infertility without an explanation. If no cause of infertility has been found, despite evaluation of common causes, it is considered unexplained infertility.
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Frequently asked questions
Discover answers to common questions about IVF treatment, including the process, success rates, and what to expect. Our FAQs provide clear insights to guide you through your fertility journey.
Getting pregnant or having a live birth after IVF treatment decreases after age 35, according to research. After 40, the success rate declines significantly.
Most IVF programs include embryo cryopreservation. In order to have another chance at getting pregnant, some people freeze and store embryos. The freezing and thawing of extra embryos can last several years, but not all of them will survive.
There is no automatic risk associated with IVF pregnancy. An IVF pregnancy will be considered high-risk if the birthing parent has a medical condition that puts them at risk. Among these are advanced maternal age, expecting multiples, or high blood pressure.
IVF alone is not known to be the cause of all birth defects. The birth defect rate for non-IVF pregnancies is around 2%. The risk of having an IVF baby is a little higher based on some studies. The reason for this could be caused by delayed conception or possibly by an underlying cause of infertility.