IVF - In-Vitro Fertilization
IVF stands for "In-Vitro Fertilization". Fertilization, the joining of the egg and the sperm, occurs normally within the fallopian tube, which connects the uterus (womb) to the ovary. In IVF, fertilization occurs outside the body, in a laboratory after eggs and sperm have been collected. The fertilized eggs, called embryos, are then transferred several days later (usually 3 or 5 days later) to the uterus to continue growth. IVF and embryo transfer sequence consists of several steps:
- The development and the ripening of the egg(s) in the ovaries is closely monitored.
- Medication is often given to increase the number of eggs developing in the ovaries (hyperstimulation).
- Shortly before the eggs burst out of the follicles (timing is crucial because the egg will not develop properly if it is collected too early or too late), a hollow needle guided by ultrasound is placed into the follicle and eggs are gently removed from the ovaries. This is called "follicular aspiration."
- Sperm is obtained through masturbation.
- Eggs and sperm are mixed together in the laboratory.
- Alternatively, sperm can be injected into the egg through ICSI.
- The fertilized eggs and embryos are then transferred into the uterus.
- Published data on IVF success rates are HERE
- You can find an infertility specialist HERE
- Male infertility specialists are HERE
