IVF treatment

Description

In Vitro Fertilization is an assisted reproductive technology (ART) commonly referred to as IVF. IVF treatment is the process of fertilization by extracting eggs, retrieving a sperm sample, and then manually combining an egg and sperm in a laboratory dish. The resulting embryos are assessed for quality, and one or more are placed in the uterus through the cervix. During the procedure, a fertility doctor takes the eggs from the ovaries using a small needle and fertilizes them with sperm in a specialized lab. After fertilization happens, the eggs develop into embryos. The embryo is allowed to grow in a protected environment for some days before being transferred into the woman’s uterus increasing the chance that a pregnancy will occur. Three to five days later, the specialist re-implants the embryos back into the uterus. This procedure has been used to overcome a range of fertility issues for many couples which gives them the best chance of having a baby.

Length of Surgery

It takes about four to six weeks to finish one cycle of IVF. You have to wait a few weeks for the eggs to mature. Then you and your partner spend about half a day at your doctor’s office or clinic having your eggs retrieved and fertilized.

Type of Anesthesia

During this procedure, you will be giving general or regional anesthesia. However, monitored sedation is
sometimes used by some surgeons.

Risks

• Ectopic pregnancy
• Ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome
• Nausea
• Decreased urinary frequency
• Shortness of breath
• Pains
• Mild cramping
• Mild bloating
• Constipation
• Breast tenderness
• Multiple birth

Recovery Time

The recovery time depend on the type of procedure and the anesthesia used. Most patients are usually ready to go home between 1-2 hours after egg retrieval. After the procedure, After the embryo transfer, you can resume your normal daily activities. However, your ovaries may still be enlarged. Consider avoiding vigorous activity which could cause discomfort. Plan to take it easy for a few days until you feel
back to normal.