IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation)
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technology in which eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilised by sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryos are cultured for 3–5 days and one or two healthy embryos are transferred into the uterus. IVF is recommended for blocked fallopian tubes, severe male factor infertility, premature ovarian insufficiency, unexplained infertility, and genetic disease carriers requiring preimplantation genetic testing.
🔬 How the Procedure Is Performed
- 1
Ovarian stimulation: hormonal injections for 8–14 days stimulate multiple eggs to develop.
- 2
Monitoring: regular ultrasound scans and blood tests track follicle growth.
- 3
Egg retrieval: a minor procedure under sedation — eggs are collected through a needle guided by ultrasound.
- 4
Fertilisation: eggs and sperm are combined in the laboratory; ICSI may be used for male infertility.
- 5
Embryo development: fertilised eggs are cultured for 3–5 days in an incubator.
- 6
Embryo transfer: 1–2 best-quality embryos are placed into the uterus through the cervix using a thin catheter.
✅ Benefits of IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation)
- ✓Highest success rates of all assisted reproductive techniques
- ✓Overcomes a wide range of infertility causes
- ✓Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities
- ✓Surplus embryos can be frozen for future attempts
- ✓Enables single parents and same-sex couples to have children via donor programmes
📋 How to Prepare
- Comprehensive fertility investigation for both partners before starting.
- Optimise health: healthy weight, stop smoking and alcohol, take folic acid.
- Vaccination against rubella and hepatitis B if not immune.
- Counselling to prepare for the emotional demands of treatment.
- Financial planning — discuss IVF package costs and number of likely cycles.
⚠️ Possible Risks & Side Effects
- Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) — abdominal pain and swelling (3–5%)
- Multiple pregnancy (twins/triplets) if more than one embryo is transferred
- Ectopic pregnancy — rare
- Emotional and psychological stress of the treatment process
- Financial burden — multiple cycles may be needed
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
💊 Post-Procedure Care
- Rest for 24 hours after embryo transfer; light activity is fine from day 2.
- Progesterone pessaries or injections to support the uterine lining.
- Avoid heavy exercise, saunas, and baths during the two-week wait.
- A blood pregnancy test (beta-hCG) is done 14 days after embryo transfer.
- If successful, continue all supplements until week 12 and attend early scans.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the success rate of IVF?
Success rates depend on age: approximately 40–45% per cycle for women under 35, declining to 15–20% for women over 40. Your doctor will advise based on your individual case.
Is IVF painful?
The injections cause minimal discomfort. The egg retrieval is done under sedation and is not painful. Some women have cramping after embryo transfer — similar to period pain.
How many IVF cycles might I need?
Many couples conceive within 2–3 cycles. Cumulative success rates using fresh and frozen embryos from one egg collection are significantly higher than a single cycle.
🏥 IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) at Iswarya Hospital
Comprehensive women's health services from reproductive treatments to PCOS, obstetrics, and gynecological surgeries, with empathy and professionalism.
ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.