In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology used to treat infertility. It involves a series of complex procedures that involve collecting mature eggs from the ovaries and fertilizing them with sperm in a lab. Though costly, risky, and time-consuming, IVF has been the top treatment for infertile couples.
Reasons for IVF:
Infertility is defined as the inability to get pregnant, despite trying for at least an year. This can be caused by a variety of reasons, and is not an issue that is “caused” by just women. However, IVF is an option that is open to women with damaged fallopian tubes, ovulation disorders, genetic disorder, previous surgeries, and other health issues. Similarly, it is a treatment that can be used to help with male infertility: more specifically, low sperm count.
IVF procedures:
Ovulation Stimulation:
Hormone injections are administered to stimulate the development of multiple eggs in the ovaries.
Hormone levels are monitored through blood tests and ultrasound scans.
Egg Retrieval and Sperm Collection:
When the eggs are mature, a minor surgical procedure is performed to retrieve them from the ovaries using a thin needle.
A sperm sample is collected from the male partner or a sperm donor.
Fertilization and Embryo Culture:
The retrieved eggs and sperm are combined in a lab dish for fertilization.
Fertilization occurs when a single sperm is injected into an egg
Fertilized eggs are cultured in a controlled environment to develop into embryos.
Embryo Selection and Transfer:
Embryos are evaluated, and the best-quality ones are chosen for transfer via a thin catheter
After:
Once it is confirmed that a pregnancy has occurred, hormone medications are often prescribed to support and maintain pregnancy
Regular monitoring and ultrasound scans are conducted throughout the pregnancy progress
Despite the lengthy process that is meant to ensure a pregnancy, IVF is not guaranteed to work. Some couples may have to do multiple rounds of IVF or even look for other options. IVF is generally very safe, although risks do include: stress, complications, miscarriage, birth defects, cancer, among others.
References
“What Is In-Vitro-Fertilization (IVF)?” Planned Parenthood Delivers Vital Reproductive Health Care, Sex Education, and Information to Millions of People Worldwide. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/fertility-treatments/what-ivf. Accessed 16 Oct. 2023.
“In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) - Mayo Clinic.” Mayo Clinic Home Page, 1 Sept. 2023, https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/in-vitro-fertilization/about/pac-20384716.
“IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): Procedure & How It Works.” Cleveland Clinic, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22457-ivf. Accessed 16 Oct. 2023.
“IVF Step-by-Step - Am I a Candidate for IVF? - Infertility - Services - Strong Fertility Center - UR Medicine Obstetrics & Gynecology - Rochester, NY - University of Rochester Medical Center.” University of Rochester Medical Center, https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/ob-gyn/fertility-center/services/infertility/ivf/ivf-step-by-step.aspx. Accessed 16 Oct. 2023.
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