Ovarian Stimulation: The woman is given fertility medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. This step aims to increase the chances of successful fertilization.

Egg Retrieval: Once the eggs reach an appropriate size, a minor surgical procedure called egg retrieval is performed under anesthesia. A thin needle is inserted into the ovaries through the vaginal wall to remove the mature eggs.

Sperm Collection: The male partner provides a semen sample, which is processed in the laboratory to isolate healthy sperm.

Fertilization: The eggs and sperm are combined in a laboratory dish for fertilization. In some cases, a single sperm is directly injected into an egg using a technique called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Embryo Culture: The fertilized eggs, now embryos, are cultured in a laboratory for a few days to allow them to develop further.

Embryo Transfer: One or more healthy embryos are selected and transferred into the woman’s uterus through a thin catheter. This is typically a painless procedure and does not require anesthesia.

Pregnancy Test: About 10-14 days after the embryo transfer, a pregnancy test is performed to determine if the procedure was successful.

IVF is considered when other fertility treatments have not been successful or if the underlying cause of infertility requires this more advanced technique. Various factors can contribute to infertility, including issues with the fallopian tubes, low sperm count or motility, endometriosis, advanced maternal age, or unexplained infertility.

It’s essential to consider that IVF success rates can vary depending on factors such as age, overall health, and the cause of infertility. Additionally, the procedure can be emotionally, physically, and financially demanding for those going through it.

If you or someone you know is considering IVF or facing fertility challenges, it’s crucial to consult with a reproductive endocrinologist or fertility specialist to discuss individual circumstances, treatment options, and potential outcomes. They can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide personalized care.