The journey from infertility to parenthood is one of science, precision, and compassion. For clinicians, guiding patients through this process requires not just technical expertise but also a holistic understanding of each step in assisted reproductive technology (ART). At Milann Infertility Centre, where thousands of such journeys begin, we combine evidence-based practice with patient-centered care.
So, what does it take to move from oocyte retrieval to a successful pregnancy? Let’s walk through the process.
The process begins with stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Instead of relying on a single natural ovulation, fertility specialists carefully design stimulation protocols that suit each woman’s age, ovarian reserve, and medical history. Close monitoring with ultrasounds and hormone tests helps us fine-tune the response and reduce risks like ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome (OHSS).
Once the eggs are mature, they are retrieved 34–36 hours after the ovulation trigger. This minimally invasive procedure is done under sedation, guided by ultrasound. While the procedure itself takes just 15–20 minutes, handling the eggs delicately and ensuring lab conditions remain stable is key for success.
In the embryology lab, the retrieved eggs are fertilized either by conventional IVF or through ICSI (Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection), especially when male factor infertility is present. The resulting embryos are then nurtured in specialized culture systems, allowing embryologists to observe their growth until day 3 (cleavage stage) or day 5 (blastocyst stage).
Not all embryos have the same potential. Using advanced grading systems, time-lapse imaging, and sometimes genetic testing, the healthiest embryos are selected. With a focus on safety, many centres including Milann advocate single embryo transfer (SET) to reduce the risks of multiple pregnancies. The transfer itself is a gentle, ultrasound-guided procedure designed to be as stress-free as possible.
The endometrium, or uterine lining, needs to be ready to welcome the embryo. Progesterone support—whether vaginal, oral, or injectable—helps create the perfect environment for implantation. This phase is often emotionally intense for patients, making counselling and reassurance an important part of care.
Around two weeks after the embryo transfer, a blood test for β-hCG confirms pregnancy. A few weeks later, ultrasound establishes clinical pregnancy by showing the gestational sac and heartbeat. This is the most rewarding moment for both patients and clinicians.
Not every cycle ends in success, and challenges like failed fertilization, implantation issues, or OHSS may occur. At Milann, we emphasize learning from each cycle, adjusting protocols, and providing emotional support. Importantly, counselling helps couples cope with the highs and lows of treatment.
For fertility specialists, ART is as much about compassion as it is about science. Precision medicine, advanced genetic testing, and AI-driven embryo selection are enhancing outcomes. But the human connection—clear communication, empathy, and shared decision-making—remains at the heart of every successful pregnancy journey.
From the careful timing of oocyte retrieval to the joy of a positive pregnancy test, the IVF journey reflects the synergy of clinical expertise and patient trust. At Milann Infertility Centre, our legacy lies not only in numbers but in stories of hope and new beginnings. Through Milann Academy, we are committed to training the next generation of fertility specialists, ensuring that the science of reproduction continues to evolve—always with patients at its core.
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