What is IVF? A step-by-step guide
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is a multi-stage process that mimics the natural steps of conception, performed under careful medical supervision to optimize chances for pregnancy. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how each step works
1.Ovarian Stimulation
- Special hormone medications are given daily to stimulate the ovaries, encouraging the development of multiple eggs per cycle rather than the usual single egg.
- Close monitoring is vital: frequent ultrasound scans and blood tests are done to track follicle growth and adjust medication to avoid overstimulation or premature release.
2.Egg Retrieval
- When the follicles are ready, a “trigger” injection prompts final maturation.
- About 34–36 hours later, eggs are collected using a needle guided by ultrasound while under mild sedation.
- The procedure takes around 20–30 minutes. The eggs are immediately sent to the lab for assessment.
3.Fertilisation in the Lab
- Eggs are combined with sperm in a culture dish. If sperm quality is normal, dozens of thousands of motile sperm are added to each egg for standard IVF.
- If sperm quality is low, ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) may be used, where a single healthy sperm is selected and injected directly into the egg.
- Fertilisation is confirmed the following day by checking for pronuclei – clear markers indicating the genetic material from sperm and egg has merged.
4.Embryo Development
- Fertilised eggs start dividing and become embryos. Scientists monitor development daily, grading embryos for quality and viability.
- By day 3, embryos typically reach 5-8 cells. By day 5, the best embryos progress to the blastocyst stage—considered optimal for transfer because of greater implantation potential.
5.Genetic Testing and Embryo Selection
- Embryos may undergo optional genetic screening to check for chromosomal normalcy, reducing the risk of genetic disorders.
- Only high-quality embryos are selected for transfer. Remaining embryos may be frozen (cryopreserved) for future use.
6.Embryo Transfer
- The chosen embryo is carefully placed into the uterus using a soft, thin catheter in a quick, outpatient procedure.
- No sedation is usually needed. Sometimes more than one embryo is transferred, but this may raise the risk of twins or multiples.
7.The Waiting Period & Pregnancy Test
- A blood test around 10–14 days post-transfer confirms pregnancy. Home urine tests aren’t recommended as medications may distort results.
- If positive, the fertility clinic schedules a six-week ultrasound to confirm ongoing pregnancy.
IVF Timeline
A complete IVF cycle typically lasts 4–6 weeks from ovarian stimulation to embryo transfer, but additional steps like genetic testing may lengthen the process.
IVF is complex, with each stage tailored by fertility specialists based on individual needs and medical factors. Modern IVF also offers the option to freeze eggs, sperm, or embryos for future attempts, and advances in genetic testing can help ensure healthy pregnancies.
Consult with Dr Myuran Ponnam-Palam
To find out more, book a consultation today with Dr Myuran Ponnam-Palam, fertility specialist. To book an appointment contact the clinic directly.
SOURCES:
https://www.lifefertility.com.au/resources/factsheets/ivf-step-by-step/
https://www.pfcla.com/blog/ivf-timeline-how-long-is-the-ivf-process-from-start-to-finish
https://www.mivf.com.au/treatments-services/ivf-procedures/ivf-treatment-and-process
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22457-ivf
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/in-vitro-fertilization/about/pac-20384716
https://www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk/health-information/ivf-treatment