What Is IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation)?

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technology that helps individuals and couples experiencing difficulty conceiving. The procedure involves collecting eggs from the ovaries and fertilising them with sperm in a specialised laboratory. The resulting embryos are monitored as they develop, and an embryo may then be transferred into the uterus in the hope of achieving pregnancy.

IVF is one of several fertility treatment options available, and it may be recommended when natural conception is difficult or other fertility treatments have not been successful.

At Jyoti IVF, a fertility specialist can evaluate your reproductive health, discuss whether IVF is appropriate for your circumstances, and explain the treatment process, potential benefits, and associated risks.

An IVF cycle involves several stages, from preparing the ovaries and collecting eggs to fertilisation, embryo transfer, and pregnancy testing. The exact treatment plan and duration vary from person to person.

Why Is IVF Treatment Performed?

IVF may be recommended for different fertility-related conditions. The decision depends on the medical history, diagnostic findings, age, and reproductive goals of the individuals involved.

A fertility specialist may discuss IVF when one or more of the following factors are present:

• Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes: These can prevent sperm from reaching an egg or interfere with the egg’s movement towards the uterus.
• Male-factor infertility: Low sperm concentration, reduced sperm motility, or other sperm-related concerns may affect fertilisation.
• Endometriosis: This condition can affect reproductive function and make conception more difficult.
• Ovulation disorders: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may interfere with regular ovulation.
• Uterine or other reproductive concerns: Certain conditions may require specialised fertility management.
• Unexplained infertility: Pregnancy may not occur even when standard investigations do not identify a clear cause.
• Previous unsuccessful fertility treatments: IVF may be considered when other approaches have not resulted in pregnancy.
• Genetic concerns: In selected cases, IVF may be combined with appropriate genetic testing of embryos.
• Use of donor eggs or a gestational carrier: IVF may form part of a treatment plan involving these options, subject to medical assessment and applicable laws.

Not everyone experiencing infertility requires IVF. A fertility specialist will help determine which approach is most appropriate for the individual or couple.

What Are the Stages of IVF Treatment?

An IVF cycle commonly takes several weeks, although the overall timeline depends on the treatment protocol, ovarian response, embryo development, and whether embryos are transferred during the same cycle or frozen for later use.

The main stages of IVF treatment are explained below.

1. Initial Consultation and Treatment Planning

The process begins with a fertility consultation. The doctor reviews the medical and reproductive histories of both partners, where applicable, and recommends investigations to assess fertility.

These may include blood tests, ultrasound scans, semen analysis, and other examinations depending on the clinical findings.

Based on the results, the specialist develops an individualised treatment plan and explains the medications, procedures, expected timeline, and potential risks.

2. Cycle Preparation

In some IVF protocols, hormonal medication or birth control pills may be prescribed before ovarian stimulation. This can help coordinate the timing of treatment.

Not every patient requires this preparation. The choice depends on the treatment protocol and individual medical circumstances.

3. Ovarian Stimulation

During a natural menstrual cycle, usually one egg reaches maturity and is released. IVF medications are used to stimulate the ovaries to develop multiple follicles, which may contain mature eggs.

Fertility medications commonly contain hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), sometimes combined with other hormones depending on the protocol.

During this stage, the doctor monitors the ovaries through ultrasound examinations and, when needed, blood tests. The dosage and duration of medication are adjusted according to the patient’s response.

4. Ultrasound Monitoring

Regular ultrasound scans help assess the growth and development of ovarian follicles. Blood tests may also be used to evaluate hormone levels.

Monitoring helps the fertility team determine when the eggs are likely to be ready for collection and whether adjustments to the treatment plan are needed.

5. Final Egg Maturation and Trigger Medication

When the follicles have developed sufficiently, a trigger medication may be administered to support the final maturation of the eggs.

The timing of this medication is important because egg retrieval is usually scheduled approximately 34–36 hours later, depending on the treatment protocol.

6. Egg Retrieval

Egg retrieval is a procedure in which mature eggs are collected from the ovaries under ultrasound guidance. It is generally performed using a specialised needle passed through the vaginal wall while the patient receives appropriate sedation or anaesthesia.

The procedure often takes around 15–30 minutes, although the duration can vary.

After retrieval, the patient is monitored for a short period before going home, provided recovery is satisfactory. Mild cramping, bloating, or light spotting may occur afterwards. The clinic will explain which symptoms are expected and when medical attention is needed.

7. Sperm Collection and Preparation

A semen sample is usually collected around the time of egg retrieval. Depending on the circumstances, a previously frozen sperm sample or donor sperm may be used when appropriate.

The laboratory processes the sample to select sperm for fertilisation. The sperm preparation method depends on the sample characteristics and the planned treatment.

8. Fertilisation of the Eggs

Fertilisation can be carried out using one of two main approaches.

Conventional IVF: Prepared sperm are placed with the eggs in a laboratory dish, allowing fertilisation to occur.

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI): A single sperm is injected directly into an egg using specialised laboratory equipment. ICSI may be recommended for certain male-factor fertility concerns or other specific clinical indications.

The embryology team checks the eggs after insemination or injection to assess fertilisation and subsequently monitors embryo development.

9. Embryo Development and Selection

After fertilisation, embryos are monitored in the laboratory as they develop. Depending on their development and the clinical plan, an embryo may be considered for transfer at an earlier stage or after developing to the blastocyst stage, usually around day five or six.

Suitable additional embryos may be frozen for possible future use, provided they meet the laboratory’s criteria and the patient chooses this option.

Not every fertilised egg develops into an embryo suitable for transfer, and the number and quality of embryos vary between individuals.

10. Embryo Transfer

During embryo transfer, a selected embryo is placed into the uterus using a thin catheter passed through the cervix. The procedure is generally brief and does not usually require anaesthesia.

The timing of transfer depends on embryo development and the treatment plan. Some patients have a fresh transfer during the same cycle, while others have embryos frozen and transferred in a later cycle.

Medication, including progesterone when indicated, may be prescribed to support the uterine lining.

11. Pregnancy Test

A pregnancy blood test is generally performed around 9–14 days after embryo transfer, depending on the clinic’s protocol and the type of transfer.

The test measures human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone associated with pregnancy. If the result is positive, follow-up testing and an ultrasound scan may be arranged to assess the progress of the pregnancy.

A positive pregnancy test does not by itself confirm the location or ongoing development of the pregnancy. Follow-up care is important.

What Is the Role of Injections in IVF?

Injections are commonly used during IVF to support different stages of treatment. The type, dosage, and timing depend on the individual’s treatment protocol.

1. Ovarian Stimulation Injections

Hormonal injections containing FSH, sometimes combined with other hormones, stimulate the ovaries to develop multiple follicles. Regular monitoring helps the doctor assess the response and adjust medication when necessary.

2. Trigger Injection

A trigger injection helps support the final maturation of the eggs before retrieval. Depending on the protocol, it may contain human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) or another prescribed medication.

Taking the injection at the instructed time is important because egg retrieval is scheduled around its effect.

3. Progesterone Support

Progesterone may be prescribed after egg retrieval or embryo transfer, depending on the treatment protocol. It supports the uterine lining and helps create conditions suitable for embryo implantation.

Progesterone may be administered through different routes, including vaginal preparations or injections, depending on the doctor’s recommendation.

All IVF medications should be used exactly as prescribed. Do not change the dosage, timing, or administration method without consulting your fertility specialist.

What Are the Possible Risks and Complications of IVF?

IVF is widely used in fertility treatment, but it does not guarantee pregnancy and can involve side effects or medical complications.

Possible risks include:

• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS): An excessive response to fertility medications can cause enlarged ovaries and fluid accumulation. Severe cases require prompt medical care.
• Multiple pregnancy: Transferring more than one embryo increases the chance of twins or higher-order pregnancies, which carry additional risks for the pregnant person and babies. Single-embryo transfer may be recommended to reduce this risk.
• Miscarriage: Pregnancy loss can occur after IVF, as it can after natural conception.
• Ectopic pregnancy: In some cases, a pregnancy develops outside the uterus and requires medical attention.
• Bleeding, infection, or injury: Egg retrieval carries uncommon risks, including bleeding, infection, or injury to nearby structures.
• Medication side effects: Fertility medications may cause bloating, abdominal discomfort, headaches, nausea, or mood changes.
• Emotional and financial stress: Treatment can involve repeated appointments, uncertainty, and significant personal expenses.

The likelihood of these complications varies depending on individual health, treatment choices, and other factors. Your fertility specialist should explain the risks relevant to your situation before treatment begins.

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience severe or worsening abdominal pain, significant swelling, breathing difficulty, fainting, heavy bleeding, or other concerning symptoms during or after treatment.

Precautions to Follow During and After IVF

Following your fertility specialist’s instructions is important throughout the IVF cycle. The appropriate precautions may differ depending on the stage of treatment and your medical condition.

• Take medications as prescribed: Follow the exact dosage and timing of all fertility medicines and hormone support.
• Attend scheduled appointments: Ultrasound scans and blood tests help the medical team monitor your response to treatment.
• Avoid strenuous activity when advised: During ovarian stimulation and after egg retrieval, the ovaries may be enlarged. Your doctor may recommend avoiding intense exercise, heavy lifting, or activities involving sudden twisting movements.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol: These can negatively affect reproductive health and are best avoided when trying to conceive and during pregnancy.
• Discuss other medications with your doctor: Check before starting new prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs, or supplements.
• Maintain balanced nutrition and hydration: Follow a healthy routine and any individual instructions provided by your healthcare team.
• Follow post-procedure guidance: Ask your clinic when you can resume exercise, sexual activity, work, and other usual activities.

There is no need to assume that complete bed rest after embryo transfer improves IVF success. Follow your specialist’s advice regarding normal daily activities.

What Is the Success Rate of IVF?

IVF success rates vary considerably from person to person. Factors that may influence the likelihood of success include:

• The age of the person providing the eggs.
• Ovarian reserve and response to stimulation.
• The quality and development of embryos.
• Sperm-related factors.
• Uterine health and other medical conditions.
• Previous fertility treatment outcomes.
• Whether success is measured per treatment cycle, egg retrieval, or embryo transfer.

No fertility clinic can guarantee a successful pregnancy. Your specialist can discuss the factors relevant to your circumstances and explain the most appropriate way to interpret success-rate statistics.

Start Your Fertility Journey with Jyoti IVF

Trying to conceive can be emotionally challenging, especially when pregnancy does not occur as expected. Understanding your options and receiving an appropriate medical assessment can help you make informed decisions about fertility treatment.

At Jyoti IVF, you can discuss your reproductive health, understand the IVF process, and explore treatment options suited to your medical needs and family-building goals.

If you are experiencing difficulty conceiving, consider booking a consultation with a fertility specialist to discuss whether IVF may be appropriate for you.