What is IVF? It stands for In Vitro Fertilization. It is an assisted reproductive technology that helps women having trouble conceiving with getting pregnant through alternative methods. IVF has successfully helped people create millions of successful births who otherwise had trouble getting pregnant naturally, including older women who statistically have a more difficult time. It has also helped many single women who were interested in becoming pregnant as well.
How does IVF work?
During IVF, eggs are extracted and manually fertilized with sperm in a laboratory setting. The resulting embryo is then transferred to the uterus.
In most cases, women are first given fertility drugs to help stimulate egg production so that several eggs can be released and extracted at once to boost the chance of success. During this time, a fertility specialist will take blood samples to test hormone levels and examine the woman’s ovaries as well.
When the eggs are ready, they are removed via minor surgery using a needle in the pelvic cavity, then placed in a laboratory dish with semen from a partner or donor. In some cases, particularly in situations where fertilization chances are lower, a sperm is directly injected into an egg to encourage fertilization. When the eggs are successfully fertilized and monitored for cell division, they are then transferred into the woman’s uterus using a catheter. This usually takes place between three to five days after fertilization.
What are the risks behind IVF?
During and after an IVF procedure, patients face the same risks as any other medical procedures, including nausea and vomiting, severe stomach pain, and infection to the bladder and bowel. Because of the use of multiple eggs, the woman has a greater chance of carrying multiple pregnancies at once, which has its own risks during pregnancy for both the mother and the babies.
People who choose to go through IVF should consider counseling with an IVF specialists first to decide whether it’s the right path for you. While IVF often comes with a rewarding end – a successful pregnancy – it comes with many emotional and physical tolls, as well as financial burdens in areas where fertility is not covered by insurance.
How do I find an IVF specialist?
There are many doctors who specialize in infertility and IVF. You should consult with your doctor for a few references and talk with other people who have gone through IVF. Make appointments with a few specialist to see how their approach fits with your needs. Also, when going through IVF, it’s important to have a strong support system in place. Involve your partner and your family through the process, and seek out friends or a group who understand what’s happening as well.