what is ivf

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) that helps with fertilization, embryo development, and implantation, so a person can get pregnant. IVF is a complex series of procedures that can lead to a pregnancy and is a treatment for infertility, a condition in which a person cant get pregnant after at least a year of trying for most couples. IVF can also be used to prevent passing on genetic problems to a child. During IVF, mature eggs are collected from ovaries and fertilized by sperm in a lab. Then, a procedure is done to place one or more of the fertilized eggs, called embryos, in a uterus, which is where babies develop. The IVF process involves several steps, and it takes several months to complete the whole process. The first step in IVF is taking fertility medications for several months to help the ovaries produce several eggs that are mature and ready for fertilization. This is called ovulation induction. IVF may also be an option for couples with a long history of infertility, including unexplained infertility and those who have not been able to conceive with other infertility treatments.