What are the Steps Involved in the IVF Process?
If you have been struggling to conceive, you may have considered what other pathways are available on your journey to parenthood, such as IVF. In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a common and effective fertility treatment designed to assist couples who struggle with infertility issues. The term IVF refers to the process of fertilising an egg outside the body, in a laboratory environment, before implanting it back into the womb.
Given the complexity and emotional intensity of the procedure, understanding the IVF process is vital for those considering this route to parenthood. In this post, we take a deep look into the steps involved in IVF to help you understand the process and help with your decision to take this step.
Initial Consultation and Pre-treatment Assessment
The journey begins with a thorough assessment by a fertility specialist, including a detailed medical history and preliminary tests to establish the most suitable treatment protocol. This includes tests on ovarian reserve and conducting a semen analysis.
Ovarian Stimulation
The female is given hormone medications to stimulate her ovaries to produce multiple eggs, rather than the single egg that typically develops each month. Regular monitoring through blood tests and ultrasound scans assesses the response of the ovaries and the development of follicles, where eggs mature.
Egg Retrieval
Once the eggs are mature, a carefully timed injection helps finalise their development. Approximately 36 hours after this injection, egg retrieval is carried out. This is a minor surgical procedure performed under mild sedation, where eggs are collected from the ovaries using a fine needle guided by ultrasound.
Fertilisation and Embryo Development
The retrieved eggs are mixed with sperm in the lab. In cases of male factor infertility, a single sperm may be injected directly into an egg in a process known as Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). The fertilised eggs, now embryos, are then cultured in the lab for a few days to develop.
Embryo Transfer
One or more of the best-quality embryo is selected for transfer into the woman’s uterus. This procedure is typically straightforward and does not require anaesthesia.
Post-transfer Care and Pregnancy Test
Following the embryo transfer, you enter the waiting period before a pregnancy test can be conducted, usually about two weeks later. During this time, support in the form of progesterone supplements may be given to help prepare the lining of the uterus for potential implantation.
Follow-Up
Whether the result is positive or not, follow-up care is crucial. If the test is positive, the pregnancy will be monitored through early ultrasound scans. If the test is negative, further consultation will explore the reasons and discuss the next steps, which may include another cycle of IVF or other alternatives.
Handling the Emotional and Physical Impacts
IVF can be both physically demanding and emotionally draining. The use of counselling services is encouraged to help manage the stresses and emotional roller coasters that can accompany IVF treatments. Nutritional and lifestyle guidance may also play a crucial role in preparing for the treatment and potentially improving its success rates.
Are you Considering the IVF Process?
The effectiveness of IVF can vary significantly based on factors such as age, the cause of infertility, and lifestyle factors. Understanding the IVF process, from the initial steps to the follow-up care, provides couples with a clear picture of what to expect. Each step is designed with the ultimate goal of achieving a successful pregnancy, while also providing support to handle the various challenges that may arise along the way.
At Sims IVF we are here to help you every step of the way. Established in 1997, we are recognised for our dedication to helping individuals achieve their dreams of parenthood. Over the years, we have cared for thousands of patients, offering advanced IVF technology and treatments in Ireland. We are committed to bringing the joy of a family to those who need fertility assistance, offering support in a confidential, professional, and caring manner. Our mission is to provide hope and help to everyone looking to start their families.
We offer fertility consultations and treatment from our locations in Clonskeagh, Swords and Cork. For general enquiries or to book your first appointment, please complete our online contact form or call us on +353 1 208 0710 from Clonskeagh, +353 1 807 2732 in Swords, or +353 21 441 0900 if you are based in Cork.
