Overview of the In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Process
The In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) process involves several sequential steps and procedures, each aimed at facilitating successful fertilization, embryo development, and, ultimately, pregnancy. The process encompasses the following key stages:
– Dr. G. A. Ramaraju DNB PhD, Consultant Krishna IVF Clinic
A. Ovarian Stimulation :
The process of ovarian stimulation begins with an initial consultation, where a personalized treatment plan is developed based on medical history and fertility tests.
Patients may receive oral contraceptive pills or injections to suppress ovarian function, followed by the administration of injectable fertility medicines to encourage the growth of multiple follicles.
• The process of ovarian stimulation begins with an initial consultation, where a personalized treatment plan is developed based on medical history and fertility tests.
• Patients may receive oral contraceptive pills or injections to suppress ovarian function, followed by the administration of injectable fertility medicines to encourage the growth of multiple follicles.
• Monitoring of stimulation progress through ultrasounds and hormone measurements is crucial to adjust medication doses based on the individual’s response.
B. Monitoring and Ovulation Induction:
• Ovarian monitoring involves using ultrasound and blood tests to monitor ovarian follicle growth and hormone levels.
• Ovulation induction entails the administration of medications, such as gonadotropins, to stimulate the development of multiple follicles and enhance the chances of retrieving multiple mature eggs.
C. Egg Retrieval:
• Prior to egg retrieval, a series of hormones and medications are administered to stimulate the ovaries and support the development of multiple eggs.
• The retrieval procedure is typically performed using ultrasound-guided transvaginal aspiration to safely collect mature eggs from the ovaries.
D. Sperm Collection:
• For optimal sperm quality, it is recommended for the male partner to refrain from ejaculation for at least two days but not more than five days before the semen sample is collected.
• The sperm sample is typically obtained through masturbation at the clinic or laboratory, or through the use of a special condom during intercourse for sample collection.
E. Fertilization:
• Once the eggs have been retrieved, they are mixed with the partner’s or donor’s sperm in a laboratory dish in a process known as insemination.
• Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be employed if the chance of fertilization is low, involving the direct injection of a single sperm into the egg to facilitate fertilization.
F. Embryo Culture:
• Following fertilization, the embryos are cultured in a laboratory setting for a few days, typically up to five or six days. The most viable embryos are selected for transfer into the uterus to maximize the chances of successful implantation and pregnancy.
G. Embryo Transfer:
• A crucial step involving the placement of healthy embryos into the uterus, guided by ultrasound to ensure accuracy and precision.
• The woman may be advised to rest and limit heavy physical activity after the transfer.
H. Luteal Phase Support:
• Refers to the administration of medications, such as progesterone, hCG, and GnRH agonists, to support the function of the corpus luteum and enhance the success of implantation and early embryogenesis.
I. Pregnancy Test:
• Typically conducted about two weeks after the embryo transfer using a pregnancy blood test to measure the amount of hCG in the bloodstream, providing quantitative and accurate results.
The woman may be advised to rest and limit heavy physical activity after the transfer.
H. Luteal Phase Support:
• Refers to the administration of medications, such as progesterone, hCG, and GnRH agonists, to support the function of the corpus luteum and enhance the success of implantation and early embryogenesis.
I. Pregnancy Test:
• Typically conducted about two weeks after the embryo transfer using a pregnancy blood test to measure the amount of hCG in the bloodstream, providing quantitative and accurate results.