IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): Hope for Parenthood

What is IVF?

IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) used to help couples who are struggling with infertility to have a baby. In IVF, the egg and sperm are combined outside the body in a lab. Once fertilization happens, the resulting embryo is placed in the woman’s uterus.

IVF has helped millions of couples around the world achieve their dream of parenthood.

Who Needs IVF?

IVF is recommended in cases like:

• Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
• Low sperm count or motility in men
• PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
• Endometriosis
• Unexplained infertility
• Failed IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) cycles
• Older women (above 35 years)
• Couples with genetic conditions
• Single women or LGBTQ+ couples wanting to conceive

How IVF Works – Step-by-Step

1. Ovarian Stimulation

The woman is given hormonal injections for 8–12 days to produce multiple eggs instead of one.

2. Egg Retrieval (Ovum Pick-Up)

The eggs are collected from the ovaries using a minor procedure under anesthesia.

3. Sperm Collection

On the same day, the male partner provides a semen sample.

4. Fertilization

Eggs and sperm are combined in a lab. In some cases, ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is done where one healthy sperm is injected directly into an egg.

5. Embryo Culture

The fertilized eggs (embryos) are monitored for 3–5 days to select the best one(s).

6. Embryo Transfer

A healthy embryo is transferred into the uterus. It’s a simple, painless procedure that doesn’t require anesthesia.

7. Pregnancy Test

After 10–14 days, a blood test confirms whether implantation was successful.

Success Rate of IVF

IVF success depends on various factors like:

• Woman’s age
• Egg and sperm quality
• Uterine health
• Lifestyle and medical conditions

On average:

• 35 years or below: 50–60% success rate per cycle
• 35–40 years: 40–50%
• Above 40: 20–30%

Multiple IVF cycles may be needed for some couples.

Advantages of IVF

• Offers hope for couples with severe infertility
• Option to use donor eggs, sperm, or embryos
• Embryo freezing allows future pregnancy attempts
• Genetic testing (PGT) helps avoid inherited diseases
• Same-sex couples and single women can conceive

Are There Any Risks?

IVF is generally safe, but possible risks include:

• Mild bloating or cramping
• Multiple pregnancies (if more than one embryo is transferred)
• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
• Emotional and financial stress
• Miscarriage or implantation failure

IVF Cost in India

The cost can range from ₹90,000 to ₹2,50,000 per cycle, depending on:

• Clinic location and facilities
• Use of donor eggs/sperm
• Number of cycles
• Medications and tests involved

Some couples may also require advanced techniques like ICSI, laser hatching, or blastocyst culture.

IVF Success Tips

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat a balanced diet
• Quit smoking and alcohol
• Reduce stress and get enough sleep
• Follow medication and doctor’s advice strictly