What is IVF and How Does it Work?

What is IVF and How Does it WorkIn Vitro Fertilization (IVF) refers to a complex process to help with conception.

More than one million babies have been born in the US through the use of IVF and additional reproductive technologies. This continues to be a great option for treating a range of fertility issues, with exciting new developments and advancements emerging over the last few years.

Who is IVF For?

IVF is most commonly associated with overcoming fertility problems, but it is also sometimes used as a way to avoid genetic issues during conception.

If you are considering IVF because you or your partner has a genetic disorder, then this can help to prevent your child from inheriting the condition. This is achieved via genetic testing during the process.

IVF is quite an invasive fertility option, and it will usually only be explored if other avenues, such as fertility-enhancing drugs, have not proved to be successful.

How Does IVF Work?

During the process of IVF, eggs are taken from the ovaries and then fertilized by sperm in a laboratory setting.

A fertilized egg, which is known as an embryo, will then be put into the uterus. It is normal that several eggs will be fertilized at the same time, with these embryos then being transferred to the uterus. Fertilizing more than one egg is done to increase the chance of success.

There are a number of different optional processes to consider when you are moving through this kind of reproductive treatment, such as the intralipid infusion ivf stage. This involves introducing a fat emulsion intravenously to encourage a more receptive environment for the embryos. Intralipid infusion could potentially increase your chance of success; however, research is limited.

Endometrial scratching is also suggested to enhance success rates, although research is again limited. This involves making a tiny scratch on the lining of the uterus to possibly improve the implantation rate.

Success Rate

IVF is currently one of the best ways to achieve conception using reproductive medical technology.

Your chances of successfully conceiving a baby through IVF will be dependent on a number of factors, such as your age and the cause of your infertility.

If you are over 35, then your chance of a successful pregnancy through IVF starts to decline and will continue to decrease the older you get. Women over the age of 44 have less than a 1% success rate.

Considerations

Depending on your situation, IVF can be quite an expensive route to parenthood. The cost of a single treatment cycle can be as much as $15,000, and you may find your insurance does not cover this type of fertility treatment.

It can take several attempts before you fall pregnant; however, there is no guarantee that this will work for you.

Furthermore, when you have multiple embryos implanted, it is possible that more than one will be successful, which can result in more than one child. You must be prepared for this eventuality.

If you are thinking about trying to start a family this way, then be sure to get as much information from your doctor as you can before making a decision. Your healthcare provider will explain the entire process, as well as any potential complications so that you can decide whether or not IVF is for you.