Procedure for IVF

What’s IVF?

IVF or (In vitro fertilization) is the commonest form of ART i.e. Assisted Reproductive Technology apart from Intrauterine insemination (IUI) procedure and artificial insemination. The baby born with the help of IVF procedure is called test tube baby. This infertility treatment is advised in case of damaged or blocked fallopian tubes or male fertility like reduced sperm count or lower sperm mobility. The eggs are fertilized in the lab and the embryos produced are placed into the uterus. This is the best method to achieve successful pregnancies in women.

IVF Procedure

IVF includes following steps –

1. Stimulation of Ovaries – Ovaries is stimulated to produce eggs with the help of medications. The patient is evaluated by blood tests and ultrasound to ensure the right time for egg collection.
2. Egg Retrieval From Ovaries – Eggs are collected through a needle suction device that pulls the eggs and fluid out of each follicle.
3. Fertilization of Eggs – The sperms and the eggs are kept together for fertilization, this process is known as insemination. If the possibility of fertilization through IVF is low, the embryologist may go for Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) which involves injecting the sperm into the egg.
4. Embryo Culture – The growth of the fertilized egg is monitored for 3-5 days.
5. Embryo Transfer – One to three embryos are transferred to the woman’s uterus once they reach the required size. They are passed into the uterine cavity through a very thin plastic tube and with the help of ultrasound.

IVF Success Rate

The IVF success rates differ by age of women, those who start the treatment before the age of 35 have around 40 percent success rate while the women over 42 years have 4 percent chance.

What is the Average Length of Stay for IVF?

It takes about 4-6 weeks to complete one cycle of IVF process. The woman has to wait for few weeks for the eggs to mature. Then, she and her partner have to spend about half a day at the doctor's clinic for having the eggs retrieved and fertilized. The doctor will advise further stay based on the patient’s condition.

IVF Indications

IVF is indicated in the following conditions:

• Fallopian tube damage
• Male factor infertility
• Advanced maternal age
• Recurrent pregnancy loss
• Infertility
• Genetic abnormalities

IVF Complications

Following are a few complications of IVF:

• Mild cramping
• Mild bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Mild spotting or bleeding
• Constipation

IVF Symptoms

A successful IVF treatment leads to following symptoms, which may indicate a pregnancy:

• Sensitive breasts
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Cramping

Post Discharge Care/Rehabilitation Information

There are some dos and don’ts after every medical procedure. Some of the Dos and don’ts of IVF are given below

Dos and Don’ts

• Consumption of cheese must be avoided during IVF pregnancy/infertility treat
• If you like coffee, try to limit it to minimal
• One must refrain from the consumption of the alcohol
• Foods that are rich in the mercury must be avoided
• Avoid lifting heavy things or running
• Visit your physician regularly

Regular Follow Up

1. Visit your surgeon post-procedure as prescribed by the doctor.
2. The physical restrictions will be suggested by the doctor based on the individual case.
3. In the event of any medical complication, contact your physician immediately.

Taking Medication as Prescribed

Avoid taking medications or pain- killers in case of pain.

Dietary and Lifestyle Advice to be Followed

• Foods to eat during IVF Fertility include unsaturated fats and protein-rich foods.
• Drink more glasses of water every day.
• A well balanced and healthy diet consisting of fresh fruits, vegetables, organic foods and seeds.