In-vitro fertilization, also known as an IVF procedure, is an effective way for couples experiencing infertility to conceive a child. In the simplest terms, the process involves implanting embryos into a womb, but there is much more to the treatment. Use this guide to learn more about how fertility clinics perform IVF and why it is so effective.

Benefits of IVF Treatment

Since the mid-1990s, more than one million babies have been born in the United States due to fertility treatments involving lab-fertilized embryos, including in-vitro fertilization. Couples turn to IVF for various reasons, including damaged fallopian tubes, a decreased sperm count and mobility in males, ovulation disorders, uterine fibroids, and unexplained infertility. Because fertilization occurs outside of the womb with IVF, it can increase the chance of pregnancy. 

The IVF Procedure

Ovary Stimulation

The fertility clinic will prescribe the woman injectable medications to stimulate her ovaries and produce eggs. This medicine is required for eight to 14 days to generate multiple eggs, which increases the chance of at least one embryo latching onto the uterus lining. The fertility team will closely monitor the ovaries and eggs with ultrasounds and blood tests. 

Egg Retrieval 

Once the eggs are present, the fertility doctor will retrieve them during a minor surgical procedure. The retrieval process involves a hollow needle going through the pelvic cavity. Advanced ultrasound equipment helps the physician guide the equipment to the right place. 

Fertilization

After getting the eggs, it's time to join them with sperm to make embryos. If the man is providing a fresh sample, he will do so on the day of the egg retrieval. However, the IVF procedure can use frozen samples from donors, which the fertility team will prepare in the lab. 

A specialist will mix the eggs and sperm in a lab dish to initiate fertilization. The container is closely monitored to ensure that the eggs are fertilized and the cells divide accordingly to become embryos. 

Embryo Transfer

The fertility team will transfer the embryos into the woman's womb using a small tube about three to five days after fertilization. The transfer is painless, but some women have mild cramping afterward. If the IVF procedure is successful, implantation will occur six to ten days after the egg retrieval, resulting in pregnancy. 

If you and your spouse are considering an IVF procedure to conceive a child, reach out to Diamond Institute for Infertility & Menopause in Millburn, NJ. Led by Dr. Ndidimaka Onwubalili and Dr. Matan Yemini, this infertility clinic has helped couples overcome infertility for more than 40 years. Their passionate doctors and support staff offer various fertility treatments, including IVF, egg freezing, and surrogacy. Schedule a consultation today by calling (973) 761-5600, or visit them online to learn more about treatment.