What is In-Vitro Fertilization
In-Vitro Fertilization, or IVF, is an intricate set of procedures that helps with the fertility and conception of a child. This procedure involves various steps, starting with extracting mature eggs from the ovaries. The fertilization of the eggs by sperm happens in a laboratory-controlled environment outside the womb. The fertilized embryo is then placed inside the uterus. On average, a complete IVF cycle takes about three weeks.
Many factors influence your odds of having a healthy baby through IVF, including your age and the reason for infertility. Furthermore, IVF can take up a lot of your time. It can result in multiple pregnancies if more than one embryo is placed in the uterus.
To understand the intricacies of the procedure, you must consult with your doctor to learn about the benefits and risks involved in an IVF procedure.
Why is IVF Done
If other solutions like fertility drugs and intrauterine insemination do not work for you, then IVF might be the way forward. IVF is useful in many cases. For instance, IVF may be the right choice for you if you or your partner suffer from the following conditions:
Damaged Fallopian Tube
If the fallopian tube is damaged or blocked, it will be difficult for the embryo to make its way to the uterus.
Irregular Ovulation
When ovulation doesn't occur often, fewer eggs are available, bringing down the chances of conception.
Uterine Fibroids
Fibroids are harmless tumours in the uterus. On the uterine walls, there can be obstructions to the implantation of the fertilized egg.
Endometriosis
In endometriosis, a tissue akin to the linking of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing inflammation. This affects the function of the reproductive organs.
Semen Abnormalities
In cases of low sperm production, anomalies in the size and shape of sperm, or poor mobility, fertilization becomes difficult.
Genetic Disorders
If you or your partner suffer from a genetic disorder and there is a possibility that you can pass it on to your child, you might want a preimplantation genetic test. After fertilization, the embryos are screened for identifiable genetic problems. The ones that pass the test are transferred to the uterus.
Benefits of IVF
Many benefits are associated with IVF, a few of which are stated below.
Can be used by anyone
IVF is available to all, be it the mother, surrogate, or gestational carrier. A gestational carrier is someone who has an embryo implanted in their uterus. This means same-sex couples, single women, and many others can become parents through IVF.
Donated Eggs & Sperms Can Be Used
If the causes of infertility are sperm abnormalities or ovulation disorders, then IVF gives you the option of using donated eggs and sperm. This increases the chance of conception and of having a healthy baby.
Control over Timing
Family planning becomes easier with In-Vitro Fertilization. You can choose to cryopreserve the eggs or embryos and have a baby when you want.
Risks of IVF
Before going through any life-changing procedure, you must be aware of all the possible side effects and risks associated with it. These include:
Multiple Pregnancies
In-Vitro Fertilization increases the chances of multiple births. If more than one embryo is placed in the uterus, then more than one baby can be born.
Premature Delivery and Low Birth Weight
IVF babies tend to be born early or with a low birth weight.
Egg-collection Procedure
The retrieval of the egg can be complicated as an aspirating needle is used. This increases the chances of bleeding and infection.
Ectopic Pregnancy
There is a 2-5% chance of Ectopic pregnancy with IVF. Ectopic Pregnancy occurs when the embryo gets implanted outside the uterus, in the fallopian tube. The fertilized egg cannot sustain outside the uterus.
Stress
IVF can be a very tiresome procedure that can drain you physically and mentally. The added expenses can also take a toll on you. Make sure you surround yourselves with your loved ones and always take the advice of a specialist.
In-Vitro Fertilization is a complicated procedure but can bring you the happiness of a lifetime. If you want to know whether In-Vitro Fertilization is the best option for you, consult a doctor. You can request an appointment at Apollo Fertility in Kolkata for a consultation by calling 1860-500-4424.
IVF usually takes about three weeks to get pregnant. This also depends on the age of the mother and other health conditions.
In IVF, the egg and sperm are fertilized in a laboratory. Once fertilization takes place, the embryo is transferred to the womb.
In India, the success rate of in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) varies between 30% and 35% for each embryo transfer.
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a potential side effect of in vitro fertilisation (IVF). The ovaries might swell and cause pain.
The process has five main steps: injection of hormones in women, harvesting of the eggs, fertilization, embryo culture, and embryo transfer.
