What is IVF?
IVF is simply the uniting of egg and sperm in vitro (in the lab). Subsequently the embryos are transferred into the uterus through the cervix and pregnancy is allowed to begin. The process is done inconjunction with ovulation induction through drugs, monitoring of hormone levels and follicle scans with ultrasound.
Will I Get Pregnant?
The average couple
will need 3 attempts before obtaining a pregnancy through IVF, all depending
on their diagnosis. Some couples will have more than one cause of infertility
making IVF the only realistic option for achieving pregnancy.
Who is Suited to IVF?
Below
are some factors for using IVF:
- Tubal problems can mean a woman’s fallopian tubes are blocked or damaged, which can make it difficult for the egg to be fertilized or for an embryo to travel to the uterus.
- Male factor can include a low sperm count, problems with sperm function or motility which can inhibit sperm from fertilizing an egg on its own.
- Severe Endometriosis affecting both fertilization of the egg and implantation of the embryo in the uterus.
- Ovarian issues which prevent the release or production of eggs.
- Abnormal uterus shape, fibroid tumors, or exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) as a fetus.
- Unexplained infertility
How is IVF Done?
The steps of
IVF are as follows:
- Ovulation Induction
- Retrieval
- Collecting and preparing the sperm
- Insemination of eggs and embryos culture
- Transferring embryos to the uterus
If you have specific questions regarding IVF, the process used, or embryology, why not try asking one of our staff doctors?
Recommended Link
Are you going through IVF? Would you like to share your story with others? Help women considering IVF know what this treatment is really like by posting your tale at Pregnancy Stories.
