What is IVF?
IVF or In Vitro Fertilization is simply the uniting of egg and
sperm in vitro (in the lab). Subsequently the embryos are
transferred into the uterus through the cervix and pregnancy is
allowed to begin. The process is done in conjunction with ovulation
induction through drugs, monitoring of hormone levels and follicle
scans with ultrasound.
Will I Get Pregnant?
The average couple will need 3 attempts before obtaining a pregnancy
through IVF, all depending on their diagnosis. Some couples will
have more than one cause of infertility making IVF the only
realistic option for achieving pregnancy.
Who is Suited to IVF?
Below are some factors for using IVF:
-
Tubal problems can mean a woman’s fallopian tubes are blocked
or damaged, which can make it difficult for the egg to be
fertilized or for an embryo to travel to the uterus.
-
Male factor can include a low sperm count, problems with sperm
function or motility which can inhibit sperm from fertilizing an
egg on its own.
-
Severe Endometriosis affecting both fertilization of the egg
and implantation of the embryo in the uterus.
-
Ovarian issues which prevent the release or production of
eggs.
-
Abnormal uterus shape, fibroid tumors, or exposure to
diethylstilbestrol (DES) as a fetus.
-
Unexplained infertility
Egg Retrieval
If you and your partner are planning on undergoing
IVF
treatment, then you are probably quite excited and hopeful about the
results. One of the most important steps in the IVF procedure is the
egg retrieval process. In order to produce viable embryos for
implantation, a number of ripe and mature eggs need to be retrieved
from a woman's ovaries. Only then can the IVF procedure continue
successfully. Here are some of the basics about the egg retrieval
process involved in IVF treatment.
What is Egg Retrieval?
Egg retrieval is the process whereby a woman's eggs are removed from
her ovaries. These eggs are later mixed with a man's sperm in order
to facilitate fertilization. In order for egg retrieval to occur, a
woman must first have follicle production stimulated by particular
hormones. Once a number of follicles (potential eggs) are produced,
fertility specialists can then remove these eggs from the ovaries in
order to attempt fertilization. If fertilization is successful, the
embryos will be placed back in to the woman's uterus.
