In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

In vitro fertilization (IVF) stands as one of the most advanced and effective assisted reproductive technologies (ART) available today. It offers hope to millions of couples and individuals struggling with infertility, genetic disorders, or other reproductive challenges. IVF involves fertilizing an egg with sperm outside the body in a specialized laboratory setting before transferring the resulting embryo into the uterus for implantation and pregnancy.

Who Can Benefit from IVF?

IVF is recommended for a wide range of fertility issues, including:

• Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes – Prevents natural fertilization.
• Male infertility – Low sperm count, poor motility, or abnormal morphology.
• Ovulation disorders – Conditions like PCOS or irregular cycles.
• Endometriosis – Tissue growth outside the uterus affecting fertility.
• Unexplained infertility – When no clear cause is identified.
• Genetic disorders – To prevent passing hereditary conditions to offspring.
• Advanced maternal age – Women over 35 with declining egg quality.
• Same-sex couples & single parents – Using donor sperm or eggs.
• Cancer patients – Preserving fertility before chemotherapy/radiation.
• The Complete Step-by-Step IVF Process

A full IVF cycle typically takes 3-6 weeks, depending on the treatment protocol. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Initial Consultation & Fertility Testing

Before starting IVF, a thorough evaluation is conducted at Janani Fertility Clinic, including:

• Ovarian reserve testing (AMH, FSH, AFC ultrasound)
• Semen analysis (sperm count, motility, morphology)
• Hormonal profiling (estrogen, progesterone, thyroid levels)
• Uterine evaluation (hysteroscopy, sonohysterogram)
• Infectious disease screening (HIV, hepatitis, etc.)

Ovarian Stimulation (8-14 Days)

Fertility medications (injectable hormones like FSH/LH) stimulate multiple egg production.

Monitoring via blood tests and ultrasounds tracks follicle growth.

Trigger shot (hCG) is given to mature eggs before retrieval.

Egg Retrieval (20-30 Minute Procedure)

• Performed under light sedation for comfort.
• A thin needle guided by ultrasound collects eggs from the ovaries.
• Mild cramping or bloating may occur post-procedure.

Sperm Collection & Preparation

• Collected via masturbation or surgical extraction (TESA/PESA if needed).
• Sperm is washed and prepared to select the healthiest for fertilization.

Fertilization (Conventional IVF or ICSI)

• Standard IVF: Eggs and sperm are combined in a lab dish.
• ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): A single sperm is injected directly into an egg (used for severe male infertility).

Embryo Development (3-5 Days in Lab)

• Fertilized eggs (now embryos) are cultured in an incubator.
• Embryologists monitor growth and grade quality.
• Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) can screen for genetic disorders.

Embryo Transfer (Quick & Painless)

• The best-quality embryo(s) are selected.
• A thin catheter transfers the embryo into the uterus.
• No anesthesia needed—similar to a Pap smear.

The Two-Week Wait & Pregnancy Test

• Progesterone supplements support implantation.
• A blood test after 12-14 days confirms pregnancy.

IVF Success Rates: What Factors Influence Outcomes?

Success depends on multiple factors: