In conventional In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), the process begins with ovulation induction. This can be done after down-regulation or using an antagonist cycle. Medications such as Human Menopausal Gonadotropins (HMG), Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), or Recombinant FSH are administered to stimulate follicular maturation. Once the follicles are adequately matured, eggs are retrieved in a minor surgical procedure. The retrieved eggs are then cultured in trigas incubators, where they develop into embryos. Typically, the embryos are cultured until Day 2 (48 hours, when they reach the 4-cell stage) or Day 3 (72 hours, when they reach the 8-cell stage), after which embryo transfer is planned.
An alternative approach is Blastocyst Culture, an extended embryo culture program lasting 5 days (120 hours). In this method, embryos are cultured to the 60-90 cell stage before being transferred into the uterus. This extended culture allows for the selection of more viable embryos, potentially leading to better implantation rates and increased chances of a successful pregnancy.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a fertility treatment in which an egg is fertilized by sperm outside the body. The resulting embryo is then cultured in vitro for 3 to 5 days in an incubator before being transferred to the uterus. IVF is often used when other infertility treatments have not been successful. The process involves closely monitoring a woman’s follicular maturation, retrieving oocytes (eggs) from her ovaries, and allowing sperm to fertilize them in a laboratory setting. When the egg retrieval is done during a woman’s natural cycle, collecting the naturally selected egg for fertilization, it is referred to as natural cycle IVF. After fertilization, the resulting embryos are transferred to the uterus with the goal of establishing a successful pregnancy.
Are There Variations of In Vitro Fertilization?
Yes, there are variations of IVF, including Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT) and Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT).
- GIFT: In GIFT, the gametes (egg and sperm) are transferred directly into the fallopian tubes rather than the uterus, allowing fertilization to occur naturally within the tubes. This procedure requires a laparoscopic surgery to place the gametes into the fallopian tubes.
- ZIFT: ZIFT involves fertilizing the egg in the laboratory, similar to standard IVF. However, the fertilized egg (zygote) is then transferred into the fallopian tubes rather than the uterus. Like GIFT, this procedure also requires laparoscopic surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the chances of getting pregnant with IVF?
The success rates of IVF vary based on factors such as age, fertility issues, and the clinic’s expertise. On average, the success rate ranges from 20% to 35% per cycle.
How long does it take to get pregnant with IVF?
The timeline can vary, but one cycle of IVF typically takes about 4 to 6 weeks from the start of hormone therapy to embryo transfer.
How much does one round of IVF cost?
The cost of IVF can vary widely depending on the clinic, location, and specific treatments involved. On average, one cycle of IVF may cost between INR 1,50,000 to INR 2,50,000 in India.
What is the difference between IVF and Test-tube Baby?
“Test tube baby” is a colloquial term for a baby conceived through IVF, where fertilization occurs outside the body in a laboratory “test tube” or petri dish.
Why are IVF babies called Test-tube babies?
The term “Test-tube baby” originated because early IVF procedures involved fertilizing the egg outside the body, initially using glass test tubes in the laboratory.
Is IUI or IVF more successful?
IVF generally has a higher success rate compared to Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), especially in cases where there are significant fertility issues.
What are the risks of IVF?
Risks of IVF include multiple pregnancies, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), ectopic pregnancy, and the emotional and physical stress associated with the process.
References
- PubMed Central – Overview of In Vitro Fertilization: Techniques and Outcomes This review article provides a comprehensive overview of IVF techniques and their outcomes, offering insight into the success rates and variations of the procedure.
- ASRM – Practice Committee Documents on ART The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) offers guidelines and practice documents related to Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART), including IVF, GIFT, and ZIFT.
- Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority – In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) The HFEA provides detailed information on IVF, including success rates, procedures, and what to expect during treatment.
- Fertility and Sterility – Blastocyst Culture and Transfer: An Extended Approach to IVF This research article explores the benefits of extended blastocyst culture and transfer in IVF, highlighting the improved outcomes associated with this approach.
- Oxford Academic – Natural Cycle IVF: A Review of Its Applications and Efficacy This review article discusses the applications and efficacy of natural cycle IVF, comparing it to conventional IVF methods.