What is IVF treatment and how does it work

Infertility affects millions of couples worldwide, making it difficult to conceive naturally. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a widely used fertility treatment that helps individuals and couples overcome reproductive challenges. This advanced procedure involves fertilizing an egg with sperm outside the body and transferring the resulting embryo into the uterus.

If you're considering IVF or want to understand the process, this guide explains how IVF works and what to expect.

What Is IVF Treatment?

IVF is an assisted reproductive technology (ART) used to help people with fertility issues conceive. It is a multi-step process that involves ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, embryo transfer, and pregnancy testing. IVF is often recommended for couples with blocked fallopian tubes, male infertility, endometriosis, ovulation disorders, or unexplained infertility.

How Does IVF Work?

IVF treatment is completed in several steps over a few weeks. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:

1. Ovarian Stimulation

The first step in IVF is stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs. Fertility medications, such as gonadotropins, are prescribed to increase egg production. During this period, blood tests and ultrasounds monitor follicle development and hormone levels.

2. Egg Retrieval (Oocyte Retrieval)

Once the eggs reach the desired size, an HCG trigger shot is given to induce final egg maturation. After 36 hours, a minor surgical procedure called follicular aspiration is performed under mild anesthesia. A thin needle is inserted into the ovaries to retrieve the eggs for fertilization.

3. Sperm Collection and Preparation

On the same day as the egg retrieval, a semen sample is collected from the male partner or a sperm donor. The sperm is processed in a lab to separate the healthiest and most motile sperm for fertilization.

4. Fertilization and Embryo Development

The retrieved eggs and sperm are combined in a laboratory dish for fertilization. Two main techniques are used:

• Conventional IVF: Sperm is placed with the eggs, allowing natural fertilization.
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A single, healthy sperm is directly injected into an egg. This method is used for male infertility cases.

Fertilized eggs develop into embryos within 3–5 days under controlled laboratory conditions.

5. Embryo Transfer

Once the embryos reach the optimal stage, one or more embryos are selected for transfer. Using a thin catheter, the embryo is placed inside the uterus. The procedure is painless and does not require anesthesia.

6. Pregnancy Testing

After 10–14 days, a blood test (Beta HCG test) confirms whether implantation was successful. If the embryo implants into the uterine lining, pregnancy is established.

Who Can Benefit from IVF?

IVF is recommended for individuals experiencing:

Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
Male infertility (low sperm count or poor motility)
Ovulation disorders (such as PCOS)
Endometriosis
Unexplained infertility
Genetic disorders requiring embryo screening
Repeated pregnancy loss

Success Rates of IVF

IVF success depends on factors like age, egg quality, sperm health, and overall reproductive health. Women under 35 years have a higher success rate (around 50% per cycle), while the success rate declines with age. Consulting a fertility specialist helps determine the best approach for each individual.

Conclusion

IVF is a highly effective fertility treatment that offers hope to couples struggling with infertility. By following multiple steps, including ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, and embryo transfer, IVF increases the chances of conception. If you’re considering IVF, consulting a qualified fertility specialist can help you understand the process and explore the best options for your journey to parenthood.

For More Details: https://acimc.org/service/what-is-ivf/