In Vitro Fertilization – IVF Treatment

What is IVF Treatment?

For many, the journey to parenthood happens naturally. However, for some couples facing infertility, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) offers a hopeful solution. IVF involves retrieving mature eggs from a woman’s ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm in a lab, and then transferring the embryo into the uterus to support pregnancy.

Tests Required Before IVF

Before starting IVF, several diagnostic tests help ensure optimal treatment outcomes:

• Ovarian Reserve Testing: Measures the quantity and quality of eggs.
• Semen Analysis: Assesses sperm count, motility, and morphology.
• Infectious Disease Screening: Checks both partners for infections that may affect fertility or pregnancy.
• Uterine Cavity Examination: Evaluates the uterus to ensure it can support embryo implantation.

Precautions During IVF Treatment

• Take all medications and injections exactly as prescribed.
• Avoid sexual intercourse after 6–7 days of hormone injections.
• Refrain from alcohol, smoking, and addictive substances.
• Do not lift heavy objects or engage in intense physical activity.
• Follow a nutritious, balanced diet.
• Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation or yoga.

IVF Cycle: Step-by-Step

An IVF cycle is a structured process involving the following stages:

• Ovarian Stimulation: Hormonal injections (FSH and LH) are started from Day 2 of the menstrual cycle to develop multiple eggs.
• Monitoring: Regular ultrasounds and blood tests track follicle growth (usually for 10–12 days).
• Egg Retrieval: Once follicles mature, eggs are retrieved from the ovaries under sedation.
• Sperm Collection & Fertilization: A semen sample is collected, and eggs are fertilized in the lab.
• Embryo Culture: Embryos are monitored and grown for 3–5 days.
• Embryo Transfer: Healthy embryos are transferred into the uterus (typically Day 15–19 for fresh transfers).
• Hormonal Support: Post-transfer, patients receive hormonal medications for 12–15 days and, if pregnant, up to 10–12 weeks.

When Is Ovarian Stimulation Recommended in IVF?

Ovarian stimulation is typically advised for:

• Women with low ovarian reserve
• Advanced maternal age
• Irregular ovulation
• Fertility preservation or egg donation cycles

It aims to produce multiple eggs in one cycle, improving the chances of creating viable embryos.

How Ovarian Stimulation Works

• Injections of FSH and LH are given daily for 8–14 days.
• Monitoring is done via ultrasound and hormone levels.
• A “trigger shot” is administered once follicles mature, followed by egg retrieval.
• This process increases the number of embryos available for implantation or freezing.

Success Rate: IVF with ovarian stimulation has a success rate of 40%–55% per cycle, depending on the patient’s age and fertility profile.

Benefits of IVF at Panacea Fertility Center

• Higher Pregnancy Rates: IVF enhances conception chances for couples with various infertility challenges.
• Donor Option: Availability of egg or sperm donors when needed.
• Genetic Screening: Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) helps screen embryos for genetic conditions.
• Flexible Timing: IVF allows couples to plan pregnancy on their terms—emotionally, physically, and financially.