Want to start a family but having trouble getting there? IVF, or in-vitro fertilisation could be the ideal solution for you to experience this beautiful phase of your life. IVF is a groundbreaking method of reproduction that gives millions of people around the world hope by giving them a chance to become parents even if they can’t have children naturally or for other health reasons.
IVF has helped more than 8 million babies be born in the United States since it began, thanks to its improved methods and customised treatments. Understanding the in vitro fertilisation process, why it is done, and the possible side effects can help you on your path to becoming a parent if you’re considering trying it. Let’s look at how IVF can help you reach your goals.
Why Do People Choose IVF?
People often think about IVF when other methods of fertility care haven’t worked or when health problems make it impossible to get pregnant naturally. People may choose this procedure if they are having trouble getting pregnant, are very old, or already have health problems that make it hard to get pregnant. People of the same gender who want to have a baby or people who want to have a baby but don’t have a partner also often use IVF.
Here are some common reasons why people choose IVF:
- Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
- Endometriosis
- Male infertility
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Uterine problems
- Genetic disorders
- Unexplained infertility
IVF Process Step by Step
IVF as a process includes various steps, from stimulating the ovaries to transferring the embryo. The in vitro fertilisation process is summarised below:
Ovarian Stimulation:
The first step is to take fertility drugs that will make the ovaries release more eggs. In a regular period, only one egg develops, but IVF aims to get more than one egg. Medication is based on age, medical background, and hormone levels. Ultrasounds and blood tests are used to keep an eye on how the eggs are developing.
Egg Retrieval:
Once the eggs are fully grown, they are removed from the ovaries using a slightly invasive method. A scan guides a tiny needle through the vaginal wall to get the eggs. We usually do this while the person is under light sedation, following the IVF process step by step timeline.
Fertilisation:
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), in which a sperm cell is inserted straight into each mature egg, is used to fertilise the collected eggs in case of male infertility. Eggs are generally mixed with sperm in a Petri dish for fertilisation. It is then necessary to put the fertilised eggs in an incubator and watch them grow.
Embryo Development:
The fertilised eggs turn into embryos over the next few days. Not every embryo will reach the blastocyst stage, which is the best time to put it into the uterus. About half of all embryos make it to this point.
Embryo Transfer:
The best embryos are chosen for transfer after watching them grow. By putting a catheter with the embryos inside it into the uterus, this process is virtually painless. The ivf process step by step doesn’t take long—often less than 10 minutes.
Now that we know what are the 5 stages of IVF and the important steps involved in the process, let us explore the risks associated with IVF pregnancy.
Risks of IVF Pregnancy
Some risks come with IVF pregnancy, even though it has a lot of benefits. Some of IVF pregnancy risks are:
- Multiple pregnancies
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Miscarriage
Working with your fertility doctor can help lower these risks and raise your chances of getting pregnant.
Types of In Vitro Fertilization
Based on each person’s unique situation, different types of in vitro fertilization may be suggested:
- Conventional IVF
- ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
- Egg/Sperm Donation
- Embryo Freezing
- Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
Common Side Effects of IVF
There are a lot of good things about IVF, but it can also have some harmful effects. These are some of the most common side effects of IVF:
- Bloating and cramping
- Breast tenderness
- Spotting
- Constipation
- Enlarged ovaries
- Getting bruises at the injection site
Conclusion
IVF is a perfect way to treat many people who are having trouble getting pregnant. Along with careful tracking and treatment plans made just for each person, IVF includes ovary stimulation and embryo transfer. When thinking about IVF, it’s essential to work closely with a fertility expert to fully understand the in vitro fertilisation process and get ready for the physical and mental challenges that may come up during the process.
