In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Definition:

In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a complex reproductive technology used to assist individuals or couples who are unable to conceive naturally. It involves the retrieval of eggs and sperm from the intended parents (or donors), which are then combined in a laboratory dish. The fertilized eggs, also known as embryos, are cultured in a controlled environment for a few days before being transferred into the uterus of the intended mother or a gestational surrogate. IVF is typically recommended for various fertility issues, including infertility due to blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count or motility, advanced maternal age, or unexplained infertility.

Process:

The IVF process typically involves the following steps:

• Ovarian Stimulation: The intended mother or egg donor undergoes hormone injections to stimulate the development of multiple egg follicles.
• Egg Retrieval: The mature eggs are retrieved from the ovaries using a needle guided by ultrasound imaging.
• Sperm Collection: The intended father or sperm donor provides a semen sample, which is processed to obtain motile sperm.
• Fertilization: The eggs and sperm are combined in a laboratory dish or using Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) technique, where a single sperm is injected into each egg.
• Embryo Culture: The resulting embryos are cultured in a specialized growth medium under controlled conditions to allow for optimal development.
• Embryo Transfer: The developed embryos are transferred into the uterus of the intended mother or gestational surrogate using a thin catheter.
• Pregnancy Test: A blood test is performed approximately two weeks after the embryo transfer to determine if the IVF cycle was successful.

Risks and Success Rates:

IVF carries certain risks, including multiple pregnancies, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), ectopic pregnancy, and complications arising from the egg retrieval or embryo transfer procedures. The success rates of IVF vary based on various factors, such as the age of the woman, the cause of infertility, the quality of eggs and sperm, and the expertise of the fertility clinic. Advances in IVF techniques have significantly improved success rates in recent years.