What is In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a treatment that involves retrieving eggs from the ovaries, fertilizing them in a lab with sperm from either a partner or donor, and then growing the embryos for up to 7 days.
How IVF works
IVF is a multi-step process that is tailored at every turn to your unique needs. You’ll be supported by a team of doctors, nurses, and embryologists from start to finish.
The IVF process always begins with an initial consultation, ultrasound, and blood work so your doctor can assess the best steps forward. You will be given hormonal medications, including injectables, for 10 to 14 days to stimulate ovaries to mature multiple eggs (instead of just one in a normal menstrual cycle) before eggs are retrieved. You’ll be monitored closely during this time with ultrasounds and blood tests to determine when your eggs are ready for egg retrieval.
This is a minimally invasive procedure performed by our expert doctors that involves inserting a thin needle via a vaginal ultrasound into your ovaries to retrieve eggs. You will receive anesthesia and be sedated for the whole process which takes about 15 minutes. Afterwards you may feel cramping, bloating, abdominal distention and constipation. These side effects usually resolve 5-7 days after the procedure.
You and your doctor will discuss whether you’ll be using fresh or frozen sperm. That sperm will then be “washed,” meaning the best-quality sperm will be isolated for fertilization.
The egg is fertilized with sperm in our lab. Sperm can be placed around each egg or a single sperm can be injected into each egg, a process called Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, or ICSI.
The developing embryos are monitored for up to 7 days. Embryo transfers may occur anywhere from three to six days after the egg retrieval, depending on the number and quality of embryos. Alternatively, you may choose to have some or all of your embryos frozen, with the idea of thawing and transferring them in the future during a frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle.
Before your embryo transfer, you will be given medications to optimize the uterus for implantation. Through careful monitoring, your doctor will determine when to transfer an embryo for the highest chance of success.
The embryo transfer is a 15-minute procedure in which your chosen embryo is placed into the uterus with a catheter that is inserted into the vaginal canal and through the cervix. Your provider will ask you to fill your bladder to help us use ultrasound on your abdomen to carefully guide the placement of the embryo. While you may experience minor discomfort, this procedure usually doesn’t require any anesthesia.
A pregnancy test will be done two weeks after your embryo transfer. If you are pregnant we will schedule a follow-up appointment for early pregnancy monitoring. If your test is negative, we’ll meet with you to review your IVF treatment and talk about your next options. We understand that it can be emotionally draining to go through IVF treatment and not become pregnant, but we are committed to supporting you through every avenue available for achieving your goals.
Is IVF right for me?
IVF can be a great option for many different types of patients, whether you’re experiencing fertility issues, part of an LGBTQ+ couple, or an individual seeking parenthood on your own.
IVF might be right if you’re experiencing or have been diagnosed with:
- Tubal issues (including tube removal or sterilization)
- Endometriosis
- Male infertility
- Recurrent miscarriages
- Genetic disorders
- Unexplained infertility
- Some ovulation issues
IVF Success With Fertility Centers of Orange County
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The first procedure involved in IVF is the egg retrieval. Because you will receive anesthesia and be sedated, the retrieval itself should be painless. After the retrieval you may experience a couple days of cramping, bloating, and abdominal distension. The second procedure is the embryo transfer, which does not require anesthesia. The sensation is similar to a pap smear. You may experience some slight discomfort or cramping, but most patients consider it pain-free. Each procedure takes approximately 15 minutes.
Yes! During IVF your eggs are retrieved directly from your ovaries, so it is an option for anyone with damaged, absent or tied tubes.
The lifestyle changes we recommend while undergoing IVF are similar to what’s recommended for pregnancy. It’s important to keep to a nourishing diet and abstain from nicotine, alcohol, drugs, and marijuana. Gentle exercise and plenty of sleep also supports your health during this process. If you’re taking any medications or supplements, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.