Fertility Drugs and Ovulation
The IVF process often begins with fertility medications, which stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs instead of the single egg typically released during a natural cycle. They are alsoc called hormone injections, as they usually contain FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) or a combination of hormones.
During this stage, you’ll frequently visit your specialist for blood tests and ultrasounds to monitor your hormone levels and the growth of ovarian follicles (structures that contain the eggs). The goal is to ensure the ovaries respond well to the treatment and produce multiple follicles. It’s helpful to discuss any concerns with your doctor to remain informed and reassured.
Retrieval of Eggs
Once your follicles have matured, the next step is egg retrieval. This is a minor surgical procedure carried out under sedation or anesthesia. Using ultrasound guidance, a specialist inserts a needle through the vaginal wall to collect the eggs directly from the follicles in the ovaries. The retrieval procedure is typically a quick process. The medical team will then evaluate the retrieved eggs for quality and maturity, with the best candidates set aside for fertilization.
Fertilization
After retrieval, the next step is fertilization. This stage is when the egg and sperm are combined. There are two methods commonly used during this stage:
- Conventional Fertilization: The eggs and sperm are combined in a lab dish, allowing the sperm to fertilize the egg naturally.
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A single sperm is injected into the egg. ICSI is often used if there are concerns about sperm quality or quantity.
Once fertilization occurs, the resulting cells form embryos. At this stage, science works its magic, but it’s also a waiting period for you. Embryologists will monitor the embryos to confirm their development is progressing as expected.
Embryo Development
After fertilization, the embryos are carefully observed in the lab over several days, typically up to five or six. This allows the embryologist to monitor their growth and select the healthiest ones for transfer. The development of embryos varies from person to person, and not all fertilized eggs will grow as intended. The medical team uses specific criteria to decide which embryos are most suitable for transfer. If more than one healthy embryo is created, you may have the option to freeze the extras for future use through a process known as cryopreservation.
Transfer of Embryo
Once an embryo is ready, the final step of IVF is the embryo transfer. This is often an exciting and emotional milestone in the process. The procedure is relatively simple and usually doesn’t require anesthesia.
Typically a thin catheter is used to place the embryo(s) into the uterus during the transfer. This part of the process is quick and pain-free for most people, resembling a common gynecological exam. Following the transfer, you’ll enter the a waiting period before taking a pregnancy test to confirm implantation.
Seek an IVF Specialist
The IVF process consists of several steps, each with unique challenges and emotions. From the use of fertility medications to the final embryo transfer, each phase contributes to bringing you closer to your goal of conception. If you’re beginning or considering IVF, contact a fertility specialist to learn more about your options and receive personalized advice for your specific situation.
