In Vitro Fertlisation

OVERVIEW

IVF or In Vitro Fertilization is a process where fertilization occurs when an egg is fused with sperm, in vitro. Conception, in this case takes place outside the human body, but once fertilization has taken place, the fertilized egg is implanted back into the uterus.

WHY IS IT DONE

IVF is an Assisted Reproductive Technique that helps couples conceive when non-invasive or minimally invasive procedures such as fertility drugs and IUI do not work.

It is one of the most common procedures used to treat various fertility issues like blocked fallopian tubes, ovulation disorders, endometriosis, ovarian failure, impaired sperm production etc.

HOW DO YOU PREPARE

Preparation for IVF can start as early as six months before the procedure. One can start with following a healthy diet and lifestyle, reducing alcohol intake and smoking, cutting out canned and processed food from your diet and following an exercise regimen. Stress management techniques such as deep breathing and yoga is recommended. Improving your sleep cycle and getting sufficient sleep helps enhance fertility. Taking vitamin-rich food can also be a factor that improves the chances of conception.

A little before the treatment begins, the female patient is given oral medication, to keep her cervix relaxed. The IVF procedure is not painful as such, though it can be a bit uncomfortable and cramps can be an expected side effect of all the medication given.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT

The IVF procedure begins 4 to 6 weeks prior to egg retrieval. Once fertilization takes place, the embryos are transferred approximately 3 to 5 days later.

A step by step process of the entire cycle is explained below:

Step One: Starting from Day 2 of the menstrual cycle the patient will need to undergo regular ultrasound scans and injections to stimulate the ovary and monitor follicle growth. Ovarian stimulation may also be achieved with a combination of drugs and injections. Regular blood tests are also done to monitor hormone levels. Simultaneously the uterine lining is also assessed continuously at the time of ultrasound scans.

Step Two: When the follicles reach the right size (18-20mm) as seen on the ultrasound scan by the IVF specialist, an injection called the trigger is given to release the eggs.

Step Three: The egg retrieval is scheduled 34 to 36 hours after administration of the trigger injection.

Step Four: On the day of oocyte retrieval the husband or partner will need to give a semen sample. There should be a period of abstinence of 2- 3 days before giving the sample. If the husband cannot be present or in case of difficulties in producing a sample on the day of egg retrieval a semen sample is collected in advance and the semen analyzed and frozen for use during the IVF.

Step Five: The semen sample is processed and placed in a petri dish along with the retrieved eggs.

Step Six: Fertilization takes place and embryo development starts.

Step Seven: Embryos can be cultured in the lab for up to five days.

Step Eight: The embryo transfer may be done on any day between the second and fifth day after oocyte retrieval. By the fifth day the embryo is a blastocyst and having a blastocyst transfer can improve your chances of pregnancy. Generally not more than two embryos are transferred but you can also opt for an elective single embryo transfer.

Step Nine: Two weeks after the date of embryo transfer a blood test is done to check for pregnancy

RESULTS

In case of a positive outcome the expectant mother is referred to an obstetrician for pre-natal care approximately six to eight weeks after embryo transfer. If the outcome is not positive, one can consult the doctor and go for a repeat IVF cycle or choose another method that may improve their chances of pregnancy.

RISK FACTORS

IVF is a very safe procedure when done by experienced doctors. However there are some risks that one must be aware of.

Ectopic Pregnancy

Although the IVF process places the embryo in the uterus, sometimes it can get implanted outside the womb. This happens mostly due to damaged fallopian tubes and can lead to abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and other complications. In case of severe abdominal pain please contact your IVF specialist immediately.

Drug Reaction

Injectable fertility drugs can sometimes cause hot flushes, insomnia, and nausea. It can also cause Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) where ovaries become swollen, causing pain. However, advances in technology have ensured that OHSS is extremely rare these days. With proper patient selection, most cases of OHSS can be managed safely and effectively in an outpatient setting.

Multiple Pregnancy In certain cases where more than one embryo is planted in the uterus, it can lead to a multiple pregnancy with twins, triplets, or quadruplets.

Overall, IVF is an extremely safe, effective, outpatient procedure with years of scientific research supporting its safety and efficacy.  If you have any further queries, please reach us at info@milann.co.in or to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, call us at +91-9513310580. We would be happy to be of assistance.