Basic Introduction to IVF Treatment

In vitro fertilization, or IVF treatment as it is popularly known, is known to have brought happiness to many couples and households, the happiness of having a child. With rapid lifestyle changes, issues related to sexual health of women, such as PCOS have been on the rise in the recent years. As more and more women find themselves faced with the issue of not getting pregnant, they are looking at IVF treatment as a solution. The increase in number of IVF centers in India is a proof. But before one takes a decision to opt for the treatment, it’s impertinent that one knows about the technicalities of the process.

The first step of IVF is ovulation induction. The fertility specialist, after monitoring the menstruation cycle, makes sure that the ovaries are producing eggs and checks the hormone level, amongst other things. During this period, some women take hormone pill. It stimulates the ovary to produce eggs and having a higher egg count increases the chances of fertilization.

The next step is egg retrieval, and women may face some pain during this process but pain medication is given to them to reduce any discomfort. In the process, a thin needle is passed through the upper vaginal wall and by using vaginal ultrasound, the follicle fluid is sucked out slowly, under low suction pressure. Once the fluid is out, the egg, called the oocyte, is isolated and put in a petridish and is kept in an incubator.

As the egg is retrieved, the next step is fertilization. After securing a sperm sample, either from the partner or a donor, the most active sperm is mixed with the egg in a special chamber. The egg gets fertilized and is kept in a suitably controlled environment to allow it to grow into a healthy embryo.

The last step involves embryo transplant and implantation. The healthiest embryo is chosen to be implanted. For this process, a speculum is placed in the vagina. Then, through a small plastic tube, the embryo is transferred from the cervix to the uterus, thus completing the process. 24 hour bed rest is advised post this procedure.

IVF has changed the life of millions of people, mostly for the better. Reliable and trusted IVF treatment in Delhi and other big cities is easier to find as compared to small towns. Such decisions can be really hard to make, however with the guidance and support of experienced doctors, this process can be a boon to many and bring them unparalleled joy.