In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a sophisticated reproductive procedure designed to help couples dealing with infertility. During IVF, mature eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, fertilized with sperm in a laboratory, and then the resulting embryo is implanted into the uterus. If there are excess embryos, they can be frozen for future use. An entire IVF cycle typically takes about two to three weeks.
The journey of IVF began in 1968 when Steptoe and Robert Edwards started their pioneering work. Their efforts culminated in 1978 with the birth of Louise Brown, the first baby conceived through IVF, marking a significant milestone in reproductive medicine.
The phrase "in vitro" refers to processes that occur outside the body. IVF involves fertilizing a woman's egg with a man's sperm in a lab dish. Once fertilization occurs, the sperm penetrates the egg, resulting in the creation of an embryo.
IVF is often recommended for a range of infertility issues, including damaged fallopian tubes, male infertility caused by sperm abnormalities, unexplained infertility, or when other fertility treatments have not been effective.
After the embryo transfer, resting for the day is often advised, though many women return to normal activities the next day. Women undergoing IVF may need to take hormone shots or pills like progesterone for 7 to 9 weeks to support the uterine lining and help the embryo implant. Progesterone is often continued for up to 12 weeks in early pregnancy to help prevent miscarriage.
A pregnancy test will be conducted 12 to 14 days after the transfer. IVF patients may experience side effects from medications such as nausea, headaches, bloating, and mild cramping. IVF can be both physically and emotionally demanding, so emotional support from specialists is important.
If the pregnancy test after embryo transfer is positive, the IVF process is considered successful. Regular monitoring through ultrasounds and blood tests will continue until 8 to 10 weeks of pregnancy, after which you will transition to regular prenatal care with an ob-gyn.
A negative test result can be disappointing, but it’s common for IVF patients to undergo multiple cycles before achieving a successful pregnancy. Your fertility specialist will guide you through next steps, whether it involves another IVF attempt or exploring alternative treatments.
If the pregnancy test is negative, progesterone treatment will be halted, and your period should follow within a week. You and your doctor will discuss whether to wait for another cycle or proceed with a new IVF attempt, based on your health and fertility needs.
1. Addressing Fertility Issues:
IVF provides a solution for couples struggling with infertility, including blocked fallopian tubes or low sperm quality. By fertilizing the egg outside the body, IVF bypasses natural conception hurdles, offering a greater chance for successful pregnancy.
2. Choosing the Best Embryos
IVF allows prospective parents to select viable embryos, reducing the risk of passing on genetic conditions. Preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) can detect abnormalities in embryos, ensuring that only the healthiest embryos are selected for transfer.
3. Control and Flexibility
IVF offers flexibility, enabling couples to plan the best timing for conception. Cryopreservation of eggs and sperm allows patients to store reproductive material for future use. This option is especially beneficial for women and couples with genetic disorders or those looking to delay starting a family.
1. Multiple Births
IVF increases the likelihood of multiple births, especially if more than one embryo is transferred. Multiple pregnancies carry a higher risk of complications such as premature labor and low birth weight.
2. Premature Birth
IVF pregnancies have a slightly higher risk of premature birth. Fertility specialists monitor IVF pregnancies closely to minimize these risks and ensure healthy outcomes for both mother and baby.
3. Miscarriage
Miscarriage rates for IVF are similar to those of natural pregnancies, though risks may rise with the mother’s age.
4. Ectopic pregnancy
In some cases, IVF can result in an ectopic pregnancy, where the embryo implants outside the uterus, typically in a fallopian tube, which makes it nonviable.
5. Egg Retrieval Complications:
During the egg retrieval process, there’s a slight risk of bleeding, infection, or damage to internal organs. Anesthesia used during the procedure also carries its own risks.
IVF preparation involves several steps to optimize your chances of success.
Uterine Exam: To assess the health of the uterus, tests like sonohysterography or hysteroscopy may be performed.
Ovarian Reserve Testing: Hormone levels and ultrasound exams help evaluate the number and quality of eggs.
Semen Analysis: To check sperm count, motility, and morphology, ensuring the best chances for fertilization.
Screening for Infectious Diseases: Both partners will be tested for conditions like HIV.
Healthy Diet: Eating nutrient-rich foods can boost immunity and improve IVF outcomes. Avoid alcohol, smoking, and processed foods.
Exercise: Regular, moderate exercise like walking or yoga is beneficial, but strenuous workouts should be avoided unless approved by your doctor.
Stress Management: Reducing stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature can improve overall well-being during treatment.
The cost of IVF typically starts at Rs 1,45,000 per cycle, though this can vary based on factors like the clinic’s location and additional services such as genetic testing or sperm injections. IVF in tier I cities tends to be more expensive compared to smaller cities, and insurance coverage may help offset some of the costs.