In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) is one of the most well-known forms of assisted reproductive technology (ART). For many individuals and couples facing fertility challenges, IVF offers hope and a possible pathway to parenthood. If you’re just beginning to explore this journey, it can feel overwhelming — but understanding the basics can help ease the process.
What is IVF?
IVF stands for in-vitro fertilisation, which literally means “fertilisation in glass.” In simple terms, IVF involves combining eggs and sperm outside the body in a laboratory. Once an embryo has formed, it is then transferred into the uterus with the goal of establishing a pregnancy.
This fertility clinic suggests that IVF can be used with your own eggs and sperm or those from donors. It may also involve a surrogate in some cases. The process is used by couples facing infertility, same-sex couples, and single individuals who wish to conceive.
When is IVF Recommended?
IVF may be recommended if:
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- You’ve been trying to conceive for over a year without success
- You have conditions such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or blocked fallopian tubes
- Your partner has a low sperm count or reduced sperm motility
- You’ve had multiple miscarriages
- You’re using donated eggs, sperm, or embryos
- You’re preserving fertility before undergoing medical treatments (e.g. chemotherapy)
The IVF Process Step by Step
Understanding the stages of IVF can help you feel more prepared:
- Ovarian Stimulation: Fertility medication is used to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs rather than the single egg that normally develops each month.
- Egg Collection: A minor surgical procedure is carried out to collect eggs from your ovaries.
- Fertilisation: The eggs are mixed with sperm in a lab. If fertilisation is successful, the result is one or more embryos.
- Embryo Culture: The embryos are monitored over a few days to assess their development.
- Embryo Transfer: One or more healthy embryos are transferred into your uterus.
- Pregnancy Test: After about two weeks, a blood test will confirm whether implantation has occurred and pregnancy has begun.
What are the Success Rates?
Success rates vary depending on several factors, including age, cause of infertility, and the clinic itself. According to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), women under 35 have the highest success rates, with around 32% of IVF cycles resulting in a live birth in the UK. These rates decline with age, particularly after age 40.
Things to Consider
IVF can be physically, emotionally, and financially demanding. It’s important to:
- Have realistic expectations
- Seek support from professionals or support groups
- Be prepared for more than one cycle if needed
- Understand the legal and ethical aspects, especially if using donors or surrogates
IVF has helped millions of people around the world start or expand their families. If you’re considering IVF, speak with your GP or a fertility specialist to understand your options and what’s right for you. With the right guidance and support, IVF could be the beginning of a life-changing journey.
