Understanding the Basics of IVF What to Expect During the Process

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a widely used assisted reproductive technology (ART) that’s been helping people overcome their fertility challenges. 

IVF includes a complex series of steps. These steps work together to help in the successful conception of a child. 

The process can feel unnerving at the beginning for those unfamiliar with fertility treatments. Once you understand the steps, the rest of the road feels less bumpy.

We’ll explain IVF, its procedures, risks, costs, how to prepare for it, and more.

What Is IVF & Who Can Benefit From It?

IVF can be a valuable solution for different groups of people. 

It’s generally opted by: 

• heterosexual couples who face difficulties in conceiving 
• singles who want to be parents to their biological children 
• LGBTQ+ couples who are exploring family-building options 

The technology can address numerous causes of infertility, such as: 

• blocked fallopian tubes 
• low sperm count
• issues related to egg quality 

IVF is an option for individuals/couples concerned with genetic disorders. It allows for pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT).

How Does IVF Work?

The most basic understanding of IVF is that it has to do with fertilizing an egg outside the body and then implanting the embryo into the uterus. 

The process generally starts with the administration of some fertility medications that help by stimulating the ovaries. 

Typically, a woman’s body releases one egg per cycle. Fertility medications make the ovaries release multiple eggs, which are then retrieved through a minor procedure. 

After they have been collected, eggs and sperm are combined in a lab. If fertilization happens successfully, one or more embryos are transferred into the uterus. 

This is done with the hope that the embryo will implant and result in a pregnancy.

Let’s go over the process in a bit more detail.

The Step-by-Step Process of IVF

1. Ovarian Stimulation: In the first phase of IVF, the ovaries are stimulated to produce multiple eggs. Fertility medications such as gonadotropins are commonly used for this. A fertility team will closely monitor the dosage with regular blood tests and ultrasounds. The goal is to produce mature eggs to increase the chances of fertilization.
2. Egg Retrieval: Once the eggs have matured, the next step is retrieving them. This procedure (generally performed under mild sedation) involves using a thin needle to pull the eggs from the ovaries. The eggs are then taken to a laboratory, where they are considered for their quality.
3. Fertilization: After the eggs are retrieved, they are united with sperm in a controlled laboratory environment. There are two main methods for fertilization:
   1. Conventional insemination, where the sperm is placed around the egg
   2. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), where one sperm is directly injected into the egg, and the choice to go with this method depends on factors like sperm quality and motility.

4. Embryo Development: Once the egg is fertilized, it develops into an embryo. The embryologist will monitor the embryos for 3 to 5 days for healthy development. The critical thing to note here is that not all fertilized eggs will become viable embryos. This is an essential step in figuring out which embryos have the best chance of resulting in a successful pregnancy.
5. Embryo Transfer: After the embryos have been assessed, the healthiest one (or more, as per the treatment plan) is transferred to the uterus. The embryo transfer is not very complicated and usually doesn’t need sedation. The embryo is carefully placed into the uterus through a thin catheter, and from here, it’s a matter of waiting to see if implantation happens.
6. The Two-Week Wait: After the embryo transfer, patients enter what is commonly known as the “two-week wait.” This happens to be an emotional period. Waiting to see if the embryo successfully implants and results in a pregnancy is a trying experience. A blood test is usually done after two weeks to determine if the procedure was successful.

So, is IVF successful every time for everyone?

IVF Success Rates and Considerations

Success rates for IVF can vary widely and depend on multiple factors, such as: 

• age 
• the quality of the eggs and sperm 
• the specific fertility clinic 

Younger women are likely to have higher success rates. This is because egg quality naturally decreases with age. The odds of success also go up with multiple rounds of IVF. However, this comes with added financial and emotional considerations.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While IVF is generally considered safe, there are some risks associated with the process. 

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a possible side effect of fertility medications (given to stimulate egg production) and can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea. In some extreme cases, OHSS can lead to more severe complications, but this is rare.

There is also the chance of experiencing more than one pregnancy with IVF, especially if more than one embryo is transferred. 

Some couples may be open to the idea of having twins or triplets, but multiple pregnancies come with a higher risk of complications for both the mother and the babies. This could be premature birth or low birth weight.

IVF and Emotional Considerations

As we mentioned before, undergoing IVF can be a very emotionally taxing experience. The process usually needs a lot of appointments, blood draws, and procedures – all while bargaining with the uncertainty of whether or not it will work. 

Individuals and couples need a robust support system. They can consider sharing their concerns with friends and family, trying counseling, or joining a support group with others who are going through similar experiences.

There’s one more reason people find this process unsettling, and that has to do with money. 

Costs and Financial Considerations

IVF can be a substantial financial investment. A single cycle can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $15,000 or even higher, depending on the clinic and the specific treatments needed. 

This cost may or may not include medications, adding thousands of dollars. Some insurance plans cover part or all of the IVF process, but that varies based on location and policy. 

Other options, such as payment plans, loans, or fertility grants, may be worth exploring to help ease the financial burden.

Go for fertility clinics that offer transparency in pricing and insurance coverage. 

Preparation

You can make additional efforts before the procedure, as your fertility clinic advises. 

1. Physical

• Stick to a nutrient-dense and balanced diet. It can support your reproductive health. Adding antioxidant-rich foods, like fruits and vegetables, may improve egg and sperm quality. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in sources like fish and flaxseeds and support fertility.
• Staying active through moderate exercise helps maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI) and improves IVF success rates. But it’s crucial to avoid over-exercising at all costs. This may harm your fertility.
• Try to get quality sleep of 7-9 hours a night. It supports hormonal balance and general health, which are fundamental aspects of the IVF process.

2. Mental and Emotional 

• IVF is a sentimental road. Being regular with yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises can help you manage stress and sustain emotional well-being.
• Get professional help or counseling if things get too hard, or join support groups to learn about helpful strategies for coping with this side of IVF.

3. Lifestyle Modifications

• Both partners should completely stop smoking and alcohol. These habits can lower fertility and influence IVF outcomes.
• Limiting caffeine to 200 mg daily, about one cup of coffee, may be advised to avoid any negative impact on fertility. Always stick to what your doctor says is best in your case.

4. Medical 

• Your doctor at the fertility clinic will inform you about taking prenatal vitamins, especially folic acid, and examine any medications that could affect your fertility or pregnancy.

Is IVF Right for You?

Advancements in reproductive medicine give us hope as IVF success rates have considerably shot up over the years.

You’re the best judge to decide if it’s for you – it’s a personal choice.

There’s no doubt IVF has helped many individuals and couples conceive who might not otherwise have been able to do so. But the process’s physically, emotionally, and financially challenging aspects are also genuine. 

Consult a fertility specialist if you’re confused about the best course of action. Based on your situation, they can provide more information on the whole process and your chances of success.

If you are looking for compassionate care and specialized fertility treatments, Adore Fertility has various services to support individuals and couples throughout the process. Our team extends personalized treatment plans based on your needs. With the latest technology and a patient-centered approach, we’re dedicated to helping you realize your dreams of parenthood. Visit Adore Fertility to learn more about our services and how we can help you on your fertility journey.