In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a widely used fertility treatment that has helped millions of people worldwide achieve their dream of parenthood. If you’re considering IVF, understanding the process can ease your concerns and help you make informed decisions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each stage of IVF, from ovarian stimulation to pregnancy testing.
Step 1: Ovarian Stimulation
The IVF journey begins with ovarian stimulation. This involves taking hormonal medications for 10–12 days, starting on the second day of your menstrual cycle. These medications help stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs, increasing the chances of successful fertilization.
Step 2: Follicular Puncture (Egg Retrieval)
Once your follicles reach the desired size, a procedure called follicular puncture is performed. This is a minor surgical procedure where a fertility specialist retrieves eggs from your ovaries using a thin needle guided by ultrasound. The process is done under mild sedation to ensure comfort.
Step 3: Fertilization
After retrieval, the eggs are fertilized in the lab. Through a process called Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), each egg is microinjected with a single sperm to maximize fertilization success.
Step 4: Embryo Cultivation
Fertilized eggs, now embryos, are placed in an incubator and monitored as they develop into blastocysts. This stage typically takes 5–6 days and allows embryologists to select the most viable embryos for transfer.
Step 5: Genetic Testing (Optional)
Some patients opt for genetic testing, known as Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), to screen embryos for chromosomal abnormalities or inherited diseases. This step helps improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
Step 6: Embryo Transfer
The best-quality embryo is selected for transfer into the uterus. This is a painless, non-invasive procedure performed under ultrasound guidance. Any remaining embryos can be frozen for future use.
Step 7: Pregnancy Test
Ten days after the embryo transfer, a pregnancy test is conducted to determine if implantation was successful. If the test is positive, further monitoring will confirm a healthy pregnancy.
Considering IVF Abroad? Save on Treatment Costs!
IVF can be expensive in the U.S., but high-quality, affordable fertility treatments are available abroad. Our Fertility Concierge Service helps women travel internationally for IVF and egg freezing at a fraction of the cost. We provide expert guidance, trusted clinic partnerships, and personalized support throughout your fertility journey.
Interested in learning more? Contact us today for a free consultation!
Comments