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Overview about IVF

Overview about IVF

IVF, short for In Vitro Fertilization, involves fertilization happening outside the human body, specifically when an egg is combined with sperm in vitro. Although conception occurs externally, once fertilization transpires, the resulting embryo is then implanted back into the uterus.

mother-and-baby

Who Should go for IVF?

IVF can assist couples experiencing fertility challenges such as::

  • Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
  • Male infertility including low sperm count or low sperm motility
  • Women experiencing ovulation problems, uterine fibroids, premature ovarian failure, and similar issues.
  • Women who have had their fallopian tubes removed
  • Some genetic issues with fertility
  • Unexplained infertility reasons

Engage in a conversation with your doctor regarding your fertility concerns to determine the most appropriate plan of action for your needs.

IVF Process

Couples recommended for IVF are required to go through a number of investigations and procedures:

Step 01

Treatment and Counseling

Undergoing IVF treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging for couples. Seeking counseling with Lotus Counselors enables couples to comprehend their treatment plan and express their concerns, which is crucial before commencing the procedure.

Step 02

Stimulation and Monitoring

Ovarian stimulation induces the maturation of follicles, which are monitored over a period of 10-12 days. The growth of these follicles is assessed through regular blood investigations and ultrasound examinations, enabling control over the size, quality, and quantity of the developing follicles.

Step 03

Ovum Retrieval

Through medication and the final stimulation process, the mature ovum is prompted for release. Collection of the ovum occurs in the clinic under sedation, guided by ultrasound. Subsequently, the gathered ovum is sent to the embryologist for processing in the ART laboratory.

Step 04

Sperm Collection

On the same day, the male partner is requested to provide a fresh semen sample. In cases where necessary, sperm retrieval from the testes or epididymis may be performed through a surgical procedure.

Step 05

Embryo Transfer

Under laboratory conditions, the prepared sperm and ovum are fertilized to create embryos. The embryologist prepares several embryos, and depending on their quality, they are transferred to the female partner's uterus on day 5 of the embryo's development stage.

Step 06

Post Transfer Care

Following embryo transfer, the ART specialist might recommend medication and standard care procedures to improve the likelihood of implantation. After a designated period, pregnancy tests may be advised to verify pregnancy.

Precautions to Take During IVF Treatment:

  • Injections and medications should be taken regularly
  • Avoid sexual intercourse after 6-7 days of injections
  • Avoid smoking, alcohol and habit-forming drugs
  • Avoid lifting heavy weight or other activities which lead to extra inter-abdominal pressure
  • Maintain a healthy diet regimen
  • Stress management

IVF Related FAQ

For most patients, IVF is typically not associated with significant pain. However, as a result of medication usage and the administration of hormonal injections, some individuals may encounter mild side effects such as cramping and bloating. Procedures like ovum retrieval is done under short general anaesthesia. It takes around 20 minutes for the procedure and the patient has to stay in clinic for 4-5 hours.

Fertility treatment such as IVF can lead to multiple birds including twins or triplets . However before placing embryo's in the uterus it is discussed with the patients.

With the advancing technology specially Blastocyst culture Laser assisted Hatching and Freeze -Thaw cycle, Embryo biopsy , the results are very good in the first attempt of IVF . However if needed, it is extremely safe to repeat an IVF cycle.

An IVF cycle typically takes 1 - 2 months from the start of medications to embryo transfer.

It's recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, optimum weight, positive thinking and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Depends on embryo quality, associated medical condition , age of the patient and preference of the couple.