In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a type of fertility treatment where eggs are combined with sperm outside of the body in a lab. It is a complex series of procedures that can lead to a pregnancy and is used as a treatment for infertility, which is a condition in which couples cant get pregnant after at least a year of trying. IVF can also be used to prevent passing on genetic problems to a child. The IVF process involves several steps, which can take several months to complete. Here is a step-by-step look at the IVF process:
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Preparation: The IVF treatment process begins long before any egg removal and fertilization takes place. Youll need a thorough medical history before treatment begins, plus fertility tests and analysis.
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Stimulation: Medicines, called fertility drugs, are given to the woman to boost egg production. Normally, a woman produces one egg per month. Fertility drugs tell the ovaries to produce several eggs.
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Egg retrieval: The eggs are retrieved from the ovaries using a needle guided by ultrasound imaging. This is usually done under sedation or general anesthesia.
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Fertilization: The eggs are mixed with sperm in a lab, where they are left to fertilize for several days.
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Embryo transfer: The fertilized eggs, now called embryos, are placed inside the uterus several days after fertilization. Pregnancy occurs when the embryo implants itself into the uterine wall.
IVF is a complicated process with many steps, and it sometimes takes more than one round of IVF to get pregnant. However, IVF is the most effective type of fertility treatment that involves the handling of eggs or embryos and sperm.
