IVF is a major treatment in infertility, used when other methods of assisted reproductive technology have failed. IVF was first successfully performed in 1978. IVF procedure is based on four basic steps: ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, and embryo transfer.

Ovarian stimulation: Treatment cycles are typically started on the third day of menstruation. It is necessary to harvest several eggs for IVF treatment, so fertility medications are given to stimulate the development of multiple follicles.

Egg retrieval: Refers to the process whereby a woman's eggs are removed from her ovaries. The retrieval procedure takes about 20-30 minutes and is usually done under conscious sedation or general anesthesia. After the eggs have been harvested, progesterone supplementation is given to help make woman uterine lining ideal for implantation.

Fertilization: Semen is prepared for fertilization by removing inactive cells and seminal fluid. Mature eggs are removed from the ovaries, fertilized with sperm in a laboratory dish. The eggs and sperm are left to mix together for 14 to 18 hours using an incubator that is set to simulate the same temperature as a woman’s body.

Embryo transfer: There are two types of transfers that can occur in an IVF procedure: the standard 3-day transfer or a blastocyst transfer (after five days of culturing). The number of embryos transferred back into the uterus can vary. Usually the best place to deposit embryos is the space at the very top of the uterus.

About two weeks after the transfer of the embryos, woman will make blood test to see if the procedure was successful.

Also read