What You Need To Know About IVF

If you're curious about having a baby through in vitro fertilization (IVF), you're undoubtedly wondering "what you need to know about IVF." In simple terms, IVF involves obtaining eggs from a woman and sperm from a man and mixing them in the laboratory to create embryos. These embryos are placed in the woman's womb to develop into babies. It's like giving nature a little help! IVF is often done for people who face challenges in having children naturally. This article guide will help you understand the basics of IVF, from how it works to things you may want to consider.

Why choose IVF over other treatments?

Choosing IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) over other fertility treatments is an important decision for those facing difficulties in conceiving. IVF stands out because it helps couples and individuals overcome various infertility challenges and provides a path to parenthood. Unlike some other treatments, IVF solves many issues like blocked fallopian tubes, male infertility and unexplained fertility problems. This assisted reproductive technology involves combining eggs and sperm outside the body, increasing the chances of successful fertilization. Understanding why IVF may be the preferred option involves considering factors such as personal health, the nature of the fertility problems, and the desire for a comprehensive solution to achieving a successful pregnancy.

So, if you are looking for infertility treatment that will improve your chances of getting pregnant, you can consider IVF treatment with Dr. Bindu Garg.

When IVF is recommended?

• Female infertility: Due to problems like blocked fallopian tubes, ovulation disorders or endometriosis.
• Male infertility: When there are problems with sperm count, motility, or morphology.
• Unexplained infertility: When the cause of infertility cannot be identified.
• Age-related infertility: Especially for women of older maternal age.
• Genetic disorders: When there is a risk of passing genetic conditions to offspring.
• Fertility preservation: For individuals experiencing cancer treatment, preserving eggs or sperm for future use.
• Reproductive health options: This includes same-sex couples or individuals seeking alternative reproductive methods.

What are the differences between IVF and IUI?

In the fertility treatment journey, it is important to understand the difference between in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI). Both procedures are intended to help couples facing fertility challenges, but their approaches are different. IVF involves combining eggs and sperm outside the body and transferring the resulting embryos into the uterus. IUI, on the other hand, is a less complicated procedure where prepared sperm are placed directly into the uterus during ovulation. This overview explores the key differences between IVF and IUI, to help individuals navigate the options available on their path to parenthood.

Procedures Involved in IVF —

Step-by-step IVF procedure

Step 1 - Superovulation

The term "superovulation" refers to the drug-induced release of multiple eggs for in vitro fertilization (IVF), one of the assisted reproductive technologies. To increase egg production, your fertility doctor will give you medications that contain follicle-stimulating hormones. A woman normally produces only one egg each month, however this medicine will increase your egg production.

Step 2 - Egg retrieval

Your doctor will use transvaginal ultrasound and blood tests to track growth on a regular basis. Once the eggs are ripe, the doctor will perform an immediate procedure to remove them. To remove the eggs by suction, she will insert a very thin needle into the vagina and reach the ovaries. The needle is guided by ultrasound.

Step 3 - Fertilization

The sperm sample will now be given by your partner, who will wash the sperm and prepare it for fertilization. The eggs and sperm will be mixed by a fertility specialist in a petri dish, where they will be left for a few hours to allow fertilization. The fertilized eggs are stored in an incubator to develop into embryos.

Step 4 - Embryo transfer

Depending on your age, the fertility doctor will use a delicate catheter to transfer one or two embryos into your uterus after about 3 to 5 days. After 12 to 14 days, you will take a pregnancy test to determine whether you have conceived.

After IVF treatment, what can you expect?

After completing IVF treatment, many people wonder about the results and possible changes. It involves a process where the egg and sperm unite outside the body, increasing the chances of conception. After treatment, individuals eagerly anticipate positive signs, such as successful embryo implantation and the joy of becoming parents. It is important to understand the subsequent stages of IVF, including aspects such as pregnancy testing, emotional well-being, and possible next steps. Exploring these expectations can provide reassurance and clarity for those embarking on the transformative path of IVF.

After an egg retrieval procedure, many people will immediately resume their regular routine. However, after receiving anaesthesia, you should not drive for 24 hours. You will need to return to the clinic for a blood sample pregnancy test approximately nine to fourteen days after embryo implantation.

What medicines are used in IVF?

There are several medications that can be taken during an IVF cycle. Some are consumed orally, while others require injection, skin absorption, or vaginal implants. Depending on your treatment plan, your health care professional will specify the exact dosage and timing.

During the procedure, the fertility specialist may also use medications to prevent premature ovulation. Understanding the medications involved in IVF is essential for those exploring fertility treatments, as they contribute to the successful formation and implantation of embryos, increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy.

You may be given following hormone injections during the ovarian stimulation phase:

1. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH): Your ovaries are stimulated by these hormones to produce eggs. During your treatment, you may receive one or a combination of both. This is done for about 14 days.
2. Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG): Usually given as a last-ditch effort to get your eggs to develop and start ovulation.
3. Leuprolide acetate: A specific type of injection-based gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist that triggers the response. It may serve as a trigger shot or as a means of regulating the arousal process.

What is the cost of IVF treatment?

In India, completing one IVF cycle usually costs ₹1,50,000. This does not include the cost of the medicine, which can be up to ₹50,000 per cycle. It is difficult to provide an exact figure because it depends on your health history, your treatment plan, your insurance (Medicare may cover in some areas) and the treatment facility.

Risk Involved in IVF Treatment

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a fertility treatment that helps people have children. While IVF can bring joy, it also comes with risks. Risks include a condition called ovarian hyperstimulation, multiple pregnancies and a slight increase in birth defects. Emotional stress is common, and the costs can be high. It is important for those considering IVF to understand these risks, so they can make an informed decision with their doctors. It is important to know both the potential joys and challenges that come with this fertility journey.

The following risks are associated with IVF treatment:

• Multiple births: Pregnancies that result in multiple babies are more likely to result in premature delivery.
• Premature delivery: Your baby may be slightly more likely to be born prematurely or have a low birth weight.
• Complications during egg retrieval: During the egg retrieval process, there is a risk of bleeding, infection, and injury to your bladder, intestines, or reproductive organs.
• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: A rare disease that results in swelling, rapid weight gain, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and inability to urinate.

What happens to your body if IVF fails?

Facing unsuccessful in vitro fertilization (IVF) can be a challenging experience, leaving you with questions about what will happen to your body afterward. Beyond the emotional impact, there are also physical aspects to consider. Understanding these changes is important for individuals struggling with the consequences of a failed IVF attempt. Exploring the after-effects of failure helps in coping, making informed decisions and taking steps towards emotional healing and taking alternative paths on the journey to parenthood.

How successful is IVF in conceiving a child?

The biggest determinant of IVF success is your age. If you are under 35 and over 40, your chances of getting pregnant through IVF are greatly reduced. Live birth rates also vary and are closely related to age. For example, when parents are under 35 and use their own eggs, the live birth rate is about 46%, compared to 46% when parents are 38 and using their own. When eggs are used, the live birth rate is about 22%.

How soon do you find out you're pregnant after IVF?

It takes nine to fourteen days to perform a pregnancy test after embryo transfer. Depending on the procedure or fertility clinic, the exact timing may change. Your doctor will probably do a blood test to determine whether you are pregnant. Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy, is measured by a blood test.

How soon can you try again after a failed IVF procedure?

Most IVF treatment centers suggest waiting for a full cycle between IVF treatments. The length of menstrual cycles can vary, but you should plan to wait four to six weeks after a negative test to start a new cycle. For emotional, financial and health reasons, it is generally advisable to keep a shorter gap between cycles.

Right Time To Call a Doctor for IVF Consultation

If any of the following happens during your IVF treatment, you should contact your doctor immediately:

• You get a fever higher than 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit (38.05 degrees Celsius).
• There is blood in the urine you took.
• There is a lot of blood leaking from your vagina.
• Your pelvic pain is quite bad.

What questions do I need to ask to the fertility doctor?

Making the decision to do IVF and choosing a fertility clinic is important. Here are some possible questions:

• What is your success rate for couples like us?
• What is your annual live birth rate?
• How many pregnancies result from each embryo transfer?
• What percentage of live births is the multiplier?
• What is the cost of the procedure?
• Can we keep our embryos in the freezer? How long?
• Do you offer a choice of gender or sex?

Can you choose gender during IVF?

Yes, you can choose the sex of your baby during IVF. Embryo testing allows you to check the presence of male or female chromosomes in the cells of your embryo before placing it in the uterus. Couples may decide to keep the remaining embryos and implant only the preferred sex. In many countries outside the United States, this service is restricted. Not all practices or medical professionals in the US provide this service.

What can I do to improve my chances of getting pregnant with IVF?

The success of IVF can depend on many factors, some of which are under your control and some of which are not. These elements include:

• Age.
• Height and weight.
• Number of previous births.
• Total number of pregnancies.
• Using your eggs or donor eggs.
• Number of IVF cycles.
• Success rate of the fertility clinic.
• Health conditions.
• Your cause of infertility.

What is the success rate of IVF based on age?

The success rates of in vitro fertilization (IVF) vary with age. Generally, younger individuals have a higher success rate. For women under 35, the success rate may be around 40-50%, but it decreases as age increases. The success rate may be around 30-40% for those between 35 and 37 years of age, and may be lower for those above 40. It is important to consult a fertility specialist to understand individual possibilities based on individual health factors and circumstances.

Why don't IVF procedures work?

At any stage of the IVF process, IVF treatment can fail for a number of reasons. These are some of the reasons for IVF cycle failures:

• Premature ovulation.
• No eggs are developing.
• There are lots of eggs growing there.
• The sperm does not fertilize the egg.
• Sperm quality.
• The embryo stops developing or refuses to implant.
• Difficulties during egg retrieval or embryo transfer.

Conclusion

Starting the IVF journey requires careful consideration, preparation and understanding of the multifaceted aspects involved. From the initial stages of ovarian stimulation to the emotional challenges and financial considerations, each stage plays an important role in the overall success of IVF. Couples are encouraged to seek guidance from fertility experts, pay attention to emotional well-being, and approach the journey with realistic expectations.

Finally, Dr. Bindu Garg emphasizes the importance of careful planning and understanding during the IVF process. With her guidance, you may find it important to focus on emotional wellness and maintain realistic expectations. Remember, with a combination of medical expertise and emotional resilience, you can navigate this transformative journey with confidence.

FAQ

How long does it take for an IVF cycle to end?

IVF is a multi-step, challenging process. This process should take an average of four to six weeks. This includes the period before egg retrieval, during which a person takes fertility medication until a pregnancy test is performed.

Is conceiving through IVF high risk?

Conceiving through IVF is not always considered high-risk. If one of the parents is at high risk due to a medical problem, a pregnancy achieved through IVF will be considered high risk. Having multiple children, being an older mother or having high blood pressure are some examples.

What age is best for IVF?

According to research, your chances of getting pregnant or giving birth to a live baby after IVF treatment start decreasing from the age of 35. After the age of 40, the success rate decreases significantly.

How do you recover from unsuccessful IVF?

After unsuccessful IVF, focus on self-care, seek emotional support, consider counseling, and explore alternative options for building a family.

How soon can I try again after unsuccessful IVF?

After an unsuccessful IVF, consult your doctor. They'll guide when it's safe and best to try again for success.