In vitro fertilization (IVF) and Assisted reproductive technology (ART).
In vitro fertilization (IVF):
What it is: A type of ART where the egg and sperm are fertilized outside the body in a laboratory and then implanted in the uterus for pregnancy to occur.
Who it’s for: Can be used for various reasons, including:
Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
Male infertility issues like low sperm count or motility
Ovulatory problems
Unexplained infertility
Using donor eggs, sperm, or embryos
Preserving fertility for future use
Process:
Ovulation induction: Medications are used to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
Egg retrieval: Eggs are collected through a minimally invasive procedure.
Sperm retrieval: Sperm is collected through a sample or surgical procedure.
Fertilization: Eggs and sperm are combined in a laboratory dish, and fertilization occurs.
Embryo culture: The fertilized eggs (embryos) are allowed to develop for a few days.
Embryo transfer: One or two healthy embryos are carefully inserted into the uterus.
Pregnancy test: A pregnancy test is typically taken about two weeks after embryo transfer.
Success rates:
Success rates vary depending on factors like age, medical history, and reason for infertility.
Generally, the average live birth rate per cycle is around 30% for women under 35.
Risks:
Multiple pregnancy (twins or higher) is more common with IVF than with natural conception.
Other potential risks include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), miscarriage, and ectopic pregnancy.
Alternative ART methods:
Intrauterine insemination (IUI): Sperm is washed and concentrated before being placed directly into the uterus.
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI): A single sperm is injected directly into an egg to help with fertilization.
Egg donation: Eggs from a donor are used with the intended father’s sperm.
Sperm donation: Sperm from a donor is used with the intended mother’s eggs.
Embryo adoption: Frozen embryos from another couple are donated and implanted in the intended mother’s uterus.
