IVF stands for In-Vitro Fertilization. It consists of a series of procedures that are used for the treatment of genetic or fertility problems while assisting the conception of a child. One of the most effective forms of assisted reproductive technology, IVF procedures can be conducted using a woman’s own eggs and her partner’s sperm. It can also be done by taking the eggs, sperm or embryos from a known or unknown donor.
There are some cases where a gestational carrier (a woman with an embryo implanted in the uterus) can be used. During IVF, mature eggs are retrieved from a woman’s ovaries and fertilized with the sperms in the lab. Once it has been fertilised, the egg or eggs are implanted back in the uterus. A cycle of IVF can take about 2 weeks.
One may have to undergo an IVF treatment in the following conditions:
Pre IVF Procedure:
Before beginning the process of IVF, both the partners may have to go through certain pre-procedure screenings such as:
During IVF Procedure:
IVF treatment involves the following steps:
Post IVF Procedure:
Once the embryo has been transferred, you can go back to your regular schedule. However, your ovaries may be enlarged for a few days, so it is advisable to avoid any vigorous activity that may cause discomfort.
In case you have a moderate or severe pain after the transferring of the embryo, consult your doctor who will evaluate your condition. Any indication of a complication like an infection pr ovarian torsion can be examined and treated.
An IVF procedure may bring along with it certain risks and complications like:
The average cost of an IVF treatment may vary from Rs. 10,000 – Rs. 70,000, depending on your condition.
Make sure that you continue having the medications after the embryo transfer has been successfully completed. It is better to avoid travelling during this period. It is generally after 2 weeks after the embryo transfer that you have to go for a pregnancy test. It is important not to be stressed during this phase, but be optimistic and occupied. Also, the pregnancy test must be conducted by a doctor at the clinic and not by yourself at home. After the test results will be declared whether the procedure is successful or not.
Success rate depends on multiple factors like age, time, and remaining factors comes into play. The success rate of IVF in India is in the range of 30-35% per embryo transfer.(Third party ref)