IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) Treatment

What is IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)?

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is an advanced assisted reproductive technology that helps couples facing infertility achieve pregnancy. This process involves retrieving eggs from a woman’s ovaries and fertilizing them with sperm in a specialized laboratory. The fertilized egg, now an embryo, is then monitored for a few days in a controlled environment before being implanted into the woman’s uterus to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.

For over 45 years, IVF has been an innovative revolution for reproductive medicine, changing the lives of millions of couples all over the world. The first IVF baby, Louise Brown, was born on July 25, 1978, thanks to the pioneering efforts of Patrick Steptoe and Robert Edwards. Since then, continuous advancements in technology and treatment methods have significantly improved IVF success rates, making it a preferred solution for many couples struggling with infertility.

Why Choose IVF Treatment?

Invitro fertilization (IVF) is often recommended for individuals and couples facing various fertility challenges, including:

• Endometriosis: A disorder in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus and affects fertility.
• Low Sperm Count: When the male partner has a low sperm count or poor sperm motility, reducing the chances of natural conception.
• Blocked or Damaged Fallopian Tubes: Making it difficult for the egg to reach the uterus for fertilization.
• Ovulation Disorders: Conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) that cause irregular or absent ovulation.
• Unexplained Infertility: When no clear cause of infertility is identified despite extensive medical evaluations.
• Genetic Disorders: If there is a risk of passing on a genetic condition to the child, IVF combined with genetic screening can help select healthy embryos.
• Use of Donor Eggs or Sperm: IVF allows couples to use donor eggs or sperm when needed.
• Same-Sex Couples or Single Parents: IVF enables same-sex couples and individuals to conceive using donor gametes or surrogacy.

Stages of IVF Treatment

IVF is a multi-step process that typically takes about 4 to 6 weeks to complete. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the procedure at Pratham IVF Center Ahmedabad:

Initial Consultation and Pre-Treatment Evaluation

Before starting IVF, our fertility specialists conduct a thorough evaluation, including medical history, hormonal tests, and ultrasound scans. This helps in identifying the best treatment approach for each patient.

Ovarian Stimulation

A woman naturally produces one egg per menstrual cycle. To increase the chances of successful fertilization, hormonal medications, such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), are administered to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.

Monitoring and Ultrasound Scans

During ovarian stimulation, regular ultrasounds and blood tests are conducted to monitor the development of follicles (which contain eggs). Once the follicles reach the optimal size, the next step is initiated.

Egg Retrieval (Ovum Pick-Up)

Egg retrieval is performed under mild sedation or anesthesia. Using ultrasound guidance, a fine needle is inserted into the ovaries to collect mature eggs. This procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes, and the patient can return home after a short rest.

Sperm Collection and Fertilization

On the same day as egg retrieval, a fresh sperm sample is collected from the male partner. If needed, frozen sperm samples can also be used. The sperm is then processed in the laboratory to select the healthiest sperm for fertilization.
The fertilization process occurs in two ways:

• Conventional IVF: The sperm is mixed with the eggs and left for natural fertilization.
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A single, healthy sperm is directly injected into an egg to enhance fertilization chances, especially in cases of male infertility.

Embryo Culture and Development

The fertilized eggs, now embryos, are monitored in a specialized incubator for a few days. The embryologist evaluates their progress and picks the highest grade embryos for transfer.

Embryo Transfer

Embryo transfer is a simple, painless procedure performed 2-5 days after fertilization. The chosen embryo(s) are implanted into the uterus using a tiny catheter. If the embryo successfully implants into the uterine lining, pregnancy occurs within a few days.

Luteal Phase Support and Pregnancy Test

Following the embryo transfer, hormonal medications such as progesterone are prescribed to support implantation. A blood test is conducted after two weeks to confirm pregnancy.

Luteal Phase Support and Pregnancy Test

Following the embryo transfer, hormonal medications such as progesterone are prescribed to support implantation. A blood test is conducted after two weeks to confirm pregnancy.

Role of Injections in IVF Treatment

Injections are very important in IVF, specifically during ovarian stimulation. These injections help regulate hormone levels, stimulate egg production, and prepare the uterus for embryo implantation. The key injections used in IVF include

• Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Stimulate the growth of multiple eggs.
• Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG): Triggers final egg maturation before retrieval./li>
• Progesterone Injections: Support the uterine lining for embryo implantation./li>
• ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): A technique where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg to enhance fertilization chances./li>

Despite minor side effects such as small bloating or pain, these injections significantly improve IVF success rates and increase couples' chances of conceiving.

Potential Risks and Complications of IVF

While IVF is a safe and effective treatment, it does carry some risks, including:

• Multiple Pregnancy: Increased chances of twins or triplets, leading to potential pregnancy complications.
• Miscarriage: Similar risk levels as natural conception.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: It happens when an embryo implants outside of the uterus.
• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): A rare but serious reaction to fertility medications, causing abdominal swelling and discomfort.
• Slight Risk of Infection or Bleeding: During egg retrieval.
• Emotional and Financial Stress: IVF can be an emotional and financial commitment.

Post-IVF Care and Precautions

After an IVF procedure, it’s essential to follow certain precautions to maximize the chances of a successful pregnancy:

• Avoid Strenuous Activities: Refrain from heavy lifting and intense workouts.
• Follow Medication Guidelines: Take prescribed medications as directed to support implantation.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support pregnancy.
• Avoid Alcohol and Smoking: These can negatively impact implantation and pregnancy success.
• Minimize Stress: Engage in relaxation techniques like meditation and light yoga.

IVF has brought hope and joy to countless couples struggling with infertility. Pratham IVF Center is committed to offering world-class fertility treatments, innovative technology, and compassionate care to help you achieve your dream of becoming a parent. With a high success rate and a dedicated team of fertility experts, we try to make your journey to parenthood as smooth and successful as possible.

If you or your loved one is considering IVF treatment, contact Pratham IVF Center today for expert consultation and personalized fertility care.