IVF (in vitro fertilization) is a medical procedure to help an individual or a couple conceive when nature has not done so. In IVF, a woman's egg is combined with a man's sperm outside the body, in a special laboratory.
When the egg is fertilized and developed into an embryo, it is implanted in the woman's uterus hoping to have a healthy pregnancy.
IVF is a very effective type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) and is most frequently used for the treatment of infertility caused by:
It has enabled hundreds of thousands of couples throughout the globe to enjoy the pleasure of parenthood.
IVF treatments are a series of well-planned medical interventions that help couples get pregnant if natural pregnancy is not feasible. IVF stands for In Vitro Fertilization, which literally means fertilizing an egg with sperm outside the body — in the laboratory.
Ovarian Stimulation – The female is administered hormone injections to stimulate more eggs than normal.
Egg Retrieval – Once mature eggs are developed, doctors retrieve them carefully through a simple procedure.
Fertilization – The eggs are combined with the partner's or donor's semen in the laboratory.
Embryo Development – Fertilized eggs (now embryos) are monitored closely for a few days.
Embryo Transfer – The healthy embryo is then inserted into the woman's uterus.
Pregnancy Test – Approximately two weeks later, a test is conducted to determine whether the embryo has implanted successfully.
Yes, IVF pregnancy is generally safe for both the mother and the baby when done under expert medical care.
IVF babies are born just like naturally conceived babies. However, like any medical treatment, there are some risks — such as multiple pregnancies (twins or triplets), or early delivery in some cases.
But with proper monitoring and guidance, most women have healthy and successful pregnancies through IVF. Today’s advanced technologies and experienced fertility specialists make IVF safer than ever.
