IVF, or In Vitro Fertilisation is the process of stimulation/fertilisation of an egg with sperm outside the body of a female. The fertilised egg then converts into an embryo, which is then implanted in the uterus of the expecting female after about 3 to 5 days of closely monitoring it.
The collected eggs from the female and sperms from the husband are fertilised in the lab. To increase the chances of fertilisation, a precision needle called Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is used to inject a single sperm into a single egg.
The Steps and Duration of IVF-ICSI Cycle
IVF comprises of a number of steps, which are performed over a period of 21-25 days. The basic cycle of IVF-ICSI includes:
- Ovarian Stimulation
The procedure starts with the female taking specific prescribed medicines in order to mature her eggs and preparing for fertilisation. This is done on the 2nd or 3rd day of the menstrual cycle. The follicular growth is monitored through ultrasound, and necessary changes in medication are suggested to stimulate the growth of multiple follicles. In addition, an hCG “trigger” shot is also given within a specific time-frame. - Egg Retrieval
When ovarian stimulation is done, the eggs are retrieved using a thin needle. The body is kept under sedation, and the number of eggs that would be retrieved depends on the body’s response to medication. - Sperm Collection and ICSI
On the day when the egg is retrieved, the semen sample is also taken. The sperm sample is then obtained from the male and mixed with the egg in a petri dish. In order to increase the chances of fertilisation, every sperm is injected into each individual egg using a precision needle, ICSI. - Possible Genetic Testing
Comprehensive genetic testing will be completed to prevent passing on a hereditary disease or possibility of gender selection. After 3-5 days of obtaining eggs, they are tested in genetic labs and out of them, only healthy embryos are transferred to the uterus. - Embryo Transfer
It is a small procedure that is conducted to track the hormone level to confirm pregnancy.
For many couples, IVF works the first time, while for many, it may take more than one round to get pregnant. Since not everybody is the same, there are also chances that IVF may not work for a few couples as well.
SOI Expertise
Seeds of Innocence has a team of experts dedicated solely to providing the best results to expectant couples. The team closely monitors and analyses all factors involved in the process of conceiving to better advise the couple on the next step.
Based on the cause behind infertility, the age of the mother, and the health of the mother, the doctors will either recommend IVF or not. In case there is a possibility that a couple can conceive.
FAQ’S
The success rate of IVF depends on certain factors, especially age. Women who are under 35 years have 40% chances of getting success in the first cycle. The rate is 65% by the sixth attempt. However, for women, over 42 have a 4% success rate.
Yes, normal delivery is possible in IVF. However, these cases are treated as high-risk labour case.
Although bed rest was recommended traditionally, recent studies have shown that bed rest doesn’t help women in having a baby.
Yes, you can use stairs when needed. However, you should not run up and down them and should not do it if not necessary.
Travelling is not known to impact IVF pregnancy. However, since every case is different, one must consult their specialist before travelling and getting clarity.
Include at least 48 grams of whole grain in each meal after embryo transfer. Include omega-3 rich food, and it is prudent to eat more protein.
You can do simple yoga and exercises, but you should refrain from strenuous exercises
There is no evidence that shows one sleeping position to be better than another one. You can lie in any position in which you are comfortable.
In general, intercourse is discouraged following an embryo transfer up-to two weeks.
Yes. Most of the babies taking birth with IVF are healthy and normal. In case of complications, you are advised to consult your doctor.
You have to wait a few weeks for eggs to mature. It takes about four to six weeks to complete one cycle of IVF.
The IVF procedure does not require any hospitalisation. It does require a regular visit to the hospital for a couple of hours for some days or weeks.
A person can have as many IVF cycles as suggested by their doctor. But, to improve the odds, one should try for at least three IVF cycles.
Yes. It may be possible.
Miscarriage after IVF can happen in women who produce fewer eggs. Other women can also have a miscarriage, but the chances are fewer.
According to an estimate, 40% of women can experience bleeding after IVF. The bleeding can be caused due to a number of factors like medication.
The chances of having twins or triplets with IVF are comparatively higher than a normal pregnancy. The chances of IVF reaches 25% with IVF, generally.
Some studies show that there are seasonal effects on pregnancy, with high birth rates in summers. However, studies are still going on in this realm.
Yes. The eggs and sperms are taken from you and your partner’s body. Also, the baby is developed in your body. Therefore, the child is surely yours.
Yes. Women giving birth through IVF have more chances of preterm delivery.