IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)
What Is IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)?
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is a fertility treatment that involves fertilizing an egg with sperm outside the body, typically in a laboratory setting. The process begins with ovarian stimulation to produce multiple eggs, which are then retrieved and combined with sperm. The resulting embryos are cultured for a few days before one or more are transferred to the uterus. IVF is commonly used to assist individuals and couples facing various infertility issues. It offers hope for achieving pregnancy when other methods have been unsuccessful.
How IVF Works?

- Ovarian Stimulation: The first step involves stimulating the woman’s ovaries with fertility medications to produce multiple eggs, increasing the chances of success. Regular monitoring through ultrasounds and blood tests ensures the eggs are developing properly.
- Egg Retrieval: Once the eggs are mature, they are collected from the ovaries through a minor surgical procedure known as egg retrieval. This is done under mild sedation, ensuring minimal discomfort.
- Sperm Collection: The male partner provides a sperm sample on the day of the egg retrieval. In some cases, donor sperm may be used.
- Fertilization: The eggs and sperm are combined in the laboratory under controlled conditions to allow fertilization. This can happen in two ways:
- Conventional IVF: Sperm and eggs are placed together in a dish for natural fertilization.
- ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): A single sperm is injected directly into an egg, often used if the sperm quality is low.
- Embryo Development: After fertilization, the fertilized egg (now called an embryo) is monitored for several days as it begins to develop. The healthiest embryo is selected for transfer.
6. Embryo Transfer: The chosen embryo is placed into the woman’s uterus through a simple, painless procedure. This is done using a thin catheter, and no anesthesia is required.
7. Implantation and Pregnancy Test: After the embryo transfer, the patient is asked to rest and avoid strenuous activities. About 10-14 days later, a pregnancy test is conducted to confirm whether the embryo has successfully implanted in the uterine lining.
Who Can Benefit from IVF?
- Couples with Unexplained Infertility: When the cause of infertility cannot be identified through standard testing, IVF may provide a solution.
- Women with Damaged or Blocked Fallopian Tubes: IVF bypasses the fallopian tubes entirely, making it an effective option for those with tubal factors.
- Women with Endometriosis: IVF can help those with endometriosis, especially if it has affected their ovarian function or caused pelvic adhesions.
- Men with Sperm Issues: IVF, particularly with techniques like ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), can assist men with low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm morphology.
- Women with Ovulation Disorders: Conditions that affect ovulation can be treated with medications, and IVF can facilitate fertilization when ovulation is irregular.
- Women in Later Life: As fertility declines with age, IVF can be a viable option for women who wish to conceive later in life, especially when using donor eggs.
- Couples Seeking Genetic Testing: IVF allows for preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), enabling couples to screen embryos for specific genetic conditions before transfer.
- Individuals with Genetic Disorders: Those with known genetic conditions can use IVF combined with PGT to reduce the risk of passing on genetic disorders to their children.
- Individuals Who Have Experienced Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: IVF may help in cases where recurrent miscarriage is a concern, particularly if specific underlying issues are identified.
Success Rates
The success of IVF depends on various factors, such as the woman’s age, the quality of the eggs and sperm, and the overall health of both partners. On average, the success rates in India range from 50-60% per cycle for women under 35. However, success rates tend to decline with age.
Risks and Considerations
While IVF is generally safe, some possible risks include:
- Multiple pregnancies if more than one embryo is transferred.
- Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which may occur due to the fertility medications.
- Emotional and financial stress, as IVF can be a lengthy and expensive process.
After the Procedure
After the embryo transfer, it’s important to take care of yourself. Avoid heavy lifting, intense exercise, or stressful situations. However, normal activities like walking and light work are usually fine. Your doctor will provide guidelines for the two-week wait before taking a pregnancy test.
If you’re considering IVF, it’s important to have a consultation with a fertility specialist to understand if it’s the right treatment for you. They will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring you’re well-informed and supported throughout your journey.