In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is one of the most well-known and effective treatments in Assisted Reproduction. Many women and couples have found the help they need to conceive through this treatment. Understanding each step of the IVF process can provide greater confidence when making decisions.
IVF: Another Path to Motherhood
Assisted Reproduction is a group of medical techniques developed to help people who struggle to start a family. Among the most popular treatments is In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), an option that simulates natural conception steps but in a laboratory setting. During IVF, eggs and sperm are combined in a controlled environment, and an embryo is then transferred to the uterus to initiate pregnancy.
IVF Success Rates
The success rate of IVF depends on factors such as the woman’s age, the quality of the eggs and sperm, and the medical team’s expertise. Generally, success rates follow these patterns:
These figures can vary, and every case is unique. However, advances in technology and techniques have significantly improved success rates in recent years. For more information, visit our IVF page.
Step-by-Step IVF Process
Understanding each step of the IVF process can help demystify the technique and reduce uncertainty:
- Ovarian Stimulation
The process begins with hormonal medications to stimulate the ovaries and mature multiple follicles. This increases the chances of success by providing more eggs for fertilization. During this stage, you’ll undergo regular monitoring by the medical team to assess ovarian response and adjust medication dosages if necessary.
Simultaneously, endometrial stimulation is initiated, involving hormonal treatments to thicken the endometrium. - Egg retrieval
When the follicles containing the eggs reach 16–18 mm in diameter, we perform retrieval via an ovarian puncture. This procedure, conducted under sedation, collects the eggs for fertilization in the lab. - Sperm Preparation
While the puncture is being performed, sperm preparation occurs in the lab. This involves selecting the healthiest and most active sperm. Additionally, it allows for the option to choose the desired sex of the baby. The semen sample is processed to remove seminal plasma and other substances, leaving only the sperm. Specific techniques are then used to select sperm with the best motility and morphology, ensuring the highest quality for fertilization.
This process maximizes the chances of success, both in natural fertilization within the laboratory and in cases where Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is utilized.
- In Vitro Fertilization
In the lab, fertilization occurs in a controlled and safe environment. There are three methods:- Conventional Fertilization: Eggs and sperm are placed in a Petri dish to allow natural fertilization, mimicking what occurs in the body.
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A single sperm is injected directly into each egg, overcoming male fertility issues.
- Physiological ICSI (PICSI): This method selects sperm with better binding capacity, potentially improving embryo quality.
Secrets of an IVF Lab:
Maintaining exceptional standards is non-negotiable in our IVF lab, where we handle microscopic reproductive cells and perform highly sensitive procedures. A contaminant-free environment is critical to ensure the success of every step in the process. At Nascere, we prioritize rigorous cleanliness and precision, supported by state-of-the-art technology and strict protocols, such as:
- Temperature Control: Our laminar flow tables are maintained at body temperature (37°C) to preserve cell viability outside the body.
- Humidity and Particle Control: Our air filtration system ensures an environment free from contaminants.
- Advanced Technology: We use an inverted microscope for handling microscopic cells, like gametes.
- Strict Protocols: Eggs and sperm are identified and labeled with patient details, with confirmation steps before procedures.
Nascere’s lab is the only one certified by the American Board of Bioanalysis (ABB).
- Embryo Cultivation
Embryos are cultured for five days, reaching the blastocyst stage. Embryologists select the highest-quality embryos for transfer. - PGTA Test
This non-invasive genetic test examines embryos before transfer to confirm they have 23 chromosome pairs—no more, no less! This ensures no genetic abnormalities like Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, or Klinefelter syndrome.
At Nascere, this test is standard for all IVF procedures to maximize success rates. Thanks to this protocol, we achieve up to 90% cumulative success in a second cycle. - Embryo Transfer
This is the first time you’ll see your embryos. On a screen, you’ll observe the embryologist loading the embryo into a cannula, which the doctor then uses to place it in your uterus, aiming for implantation and development. - Pregnancy Test
After 10–14 days, a blood test determines if the treatment was successful. If positive, pregnancy monitoring begins.
Additional IVF Options
- Egg Donation: Ideal for women unable to use their eggs due to quality or quantity issues. A donor provides eggs, and the rest of the process follows the same steps. This improves success rates, particularly for women over 40.
- Surrogacy: For women unable to carry a pregnancy due to health issues, a gestational carrier can carry the baby to term using the intended parents’ embryo.
Is IVF Right for You?
IVF may be suitable for:
- Women with blocked fallopian tubes or pelvic disease history.
- Men with low sperm count or motility.
- Couples who haven’t succeeded with other treatments.
- Women over 35 facing age-related egg quality issues.
- Couples seeking to prevent genetic disorders.
Find Your IVF Solution at Nascere
IVF offers hope and solutions for many facing conception challenges. At Nascere, our specialists guide you through every stage, providing personalized care and solutions to maximize success.
If you’re considering IVF, book a consultation with our specialists to get the information and support you need.