In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

 

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

During IVF, mature eggs are removed from the ovaries and fertilised in a laboratory using sperm. The fertilised egg or eggs are then implanted in the uterus as an embryo. One cycle of IVF lasts for approximately two weeks.

The most effective type of assisted reproductive technology is IVF. The procedure uses both your sperm and your own eggs. A known or unknown donor's eggs, sperm, or embryos may also be used during IVF. It may be necessary to use a gestational carrier, a woman who has had an embryo implanted in her uterus.

Depending on your age and the reason for your infertility, you may have a chance to have a healthy child via IVF. IVF results in a pregnancy with more than one foetus if more than one embryo is implanted in the uterus (multiple pregnancies).

WHY IS IVF PERFORMED?

It is a method of treating infertility or hereditary issues. If intrauterine insemination (IUI) is used to treat infertility, you and your partner might be able to try less invasive treatment options before attempting IVF, such as fertility medications to boost egg production or IUI, in which sperm are put directly into your uterus around the time of ovulation.

IVF has occasionally been used as the first line of treatment for infertility in women over 40. You must be certain of your health when performing IVF. IVF, for example, might be an option if you or your partner have:

1. Damage to or obstruction of the fallopian tube makes it challenging for an egg to become fertilised or for an embryo to go to the uterus.

2. Ovulation disorders: Fewer eggs are accessible for fertilisation if ovulation is irregular or missing.

3. Premature Ovarian Failure: The lack of normal ovarian function before the age of 40 is referred to as premature ovarian failure. Your ovaries stop functioning if they are unable to create enough oestrogen or have eggs to release consistently.

4. Endometriosis: This condition develops when uterine tissue implants and spreads outside of the uterus, frequently impairing the ovaries', uterus', and fallopian tubes' ability to function.

5. Uterine fibroids: Uterine fibroids are benign tumours that typically affect women in their 30s and 40s. Fibroids may prevent the fertilised egg from implanting properly.

6. Tubal sterilisation or removal in the past: IVF may be an alternative to tubal ligation reversal if you've had a tubal ligation, a type of sterilisation in which your fallopian tubes are cut or plugged to permanently prevent pregnancy.

7. Sperm production or function impairment: Sperm may have trouble fertilising an egg if they have low concentration, weak movement (poor mobility), or abnormalities in size and form.