The Basics of In Vitro Fertilization
Couples who are unable to conceive naturally still have hope of becoming parents. They can adopt, but not everyone wants to do this. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is another choice, where eggs are fertilized by sperm outside the body in a laboratory dish then implanted into the mother who plans to carry the child. In some cases this can be the same woman who donates the eggs, or you may decide to use a surrogate mother to carry the baby, depending on health and other factors. If you decide on IVF, it helps to understand the basic process.
The woman donating the eggs is first put on fertility medication. Not only does this increase the likelihood of successful ovulation, it increases the number of eggs. You may hear the doctor call this particular phase ovulation induction. The reason numerous eggs are needed is because not all of them will be successfully fertilized. Sometimes, IVF works the first time around, however this is not always the case. There are some women who go through numerous treatments before they are able to become pregnant.
At the right time (determined by blood work and other tests) the eggs are removed through a minor surgical procedure. After the procedure women may experience discomfort for days to weeks. Sperm is collected through ejaculation, a much easier route than egg collection. Next comes the insemination process, which takes place in a laboratory. The egg and sperm are placed in incubators for fertilization reasons. Once it is confirmed that the eggs are fertilized, it is time to transfer them. This happens approximately two days later but can take as long as six days.
The next part of in vitro fertilization is transferring the fertilized eggs to the mother's uterus. This is done using a catheter which places the eggs in the womb. Many women describe this procedure as no more uncomfortable than a Pap smear or pelvic exam. After that, the mother should rest for a day or two and will be monitored for symptoms of pregnancy. Tests may include hormone level blood tests and possibly imaging tests to determine pregnancy. As previously mentioned, IVF may not always work, or it may take several tries. For some, pregnancy happens right off. Also you should know your potential for becoming pregnant with more than one child so be sure to ask your doctor these and any other questions you may have.
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