For couples that have struggled to conceive naturally, In Vitro Fertilization, or IVF Fertility Treatment, can provide a long awaited solution. In most cases, multiple IVF cycles result in a healthy, live birth. The success rates of fertility treatments depend on a variety of factors, from age and medical history, to the quality of the clinic being used. Here is some basic information about one of the most popular fertility treatment options available.
What is IVF?
In vitro fertilization is a process in which an egg and a sperm are brought together manually in order to increase the chances of fertilization, allowing an embryo to form. Depending on the type of IVF selected, the embryo(s) will be transferred directly into the woman’s uterus, which greatly enhances the embryos chance of implantation into the placenta. There are a variety of options that exist for optimal conception and live birth rates, such as:
Using a woman’s own eggs. Women who are 40-years old and younger usually choose to use their own eggs for IVF procedures, assuming the eggs are considered healthy.
Using donor eggs. In cases where women do not have eggs, or the eggs are not healthy, donor eggs can be used for the procedure. Also, IVF success rates are higher for women who are 40-years old and older who choose to use donor eggs from a younger woman.
Using a sperm donor. Single women, same sex female partners, or men who have a very low to no sperm count, may opt to use donor sperm and the mother’s egg.
Fresh embryos. Conventional IVF treatments use fresh embryos that are transferred to the uterus. Couples have the choice of transferring one or more embryos, with the understanding that multiple embryonic transfers raise the chances of having multiple births.
Frozen embryos. Couples may choose to have their extra embryos frozen. These frozen embryos can be used in future IVF cycles if necessary.
It is important to note that multiple studies have been done comparing the fresh versus frozen embryo statistics, and the verdict is still out. The statistical differences remain very close, and further studies need to be done before there will be a definite conclusion. Patients should speak to their doctors to learn about the subtle differences, and determine which option is best for their circumstances.
Once an embryo has successfully implanted, the mother will be carefully monitored in order to ensure she has the best possible chance for the birth of a healthy baby, or babies!
What Happens During the IVF Fertility Treatment Process?
There are several steps to a full IVF fertility cycle.
1.Medical evaluation. In most cases, both prospective parents will go through in-depth medical screenings to facilitate the best possible fertility treatment for their situation. This includes an educational process to learn about the various fertility treatments available.
2.Ovulation induction. If IVF is the desired treatment, the woman will begin taking injections, which can be done at home, to stimulate ovulation.
3.Egg retrieval. Once the follicles have been stimulated, and the eggs are ready for retrieval, the doctor will use a minimally invasive procedure to retrieve the eggs.
4.Fertilization. The retrieved eggs and sperm are prepared and mixed. In many cases, the eggs are manually fertilized. The fertilized eggs will be monitored for several days to assess embryonic development.
5.Embryo transfer. Once the embryos are ready, they can be transferred to the woman’s uterus. It can take two weeks for successful implantation.
On average, it requires three IVF fertility treatment cycles to achieve success. To date, there are more than five million babies who have been born as the result of IVF fertility procedures.