Overview

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is an advanced assisted reproductive technology (ART) that helps couples struggling with infertility. It involves collecting eggs from the ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory, and transferring the resulting embryo into the uterus. IVF has provided millions of couples worldwide with the opportunity to conceive.

Key Facts

First successful IVF baby (Louise Brown) was born in 1978. IVF success rates vary by age and health, averaging 30–40% per cycle for women under 35. Globally, over 8 million babies have been born via IVF. Procedures may also involve donor eggs, sperm, or surrogacy in special cases.

Causes

IVF is typically recommended for couples with conditions such as: blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, low sperm count or motility, endometriosis, ovulation disorders, advanced maternal age, unexplained infertility, or when other fertility treatments (medications, IUI) have failed.

Symptoms

Not applicable (since IVF is a treatment, not a disease). However, patients may experience mild side effects from fertility medications such as bloating, headaches, mood swings, abdominal pain, or in rare cases, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).

Risk Factors

Factors that reduce IVF success rates include maternal age above 35, poor egg or sperm quality, smoking, obesity, untreated medical conditions (thyroid, diabetes), previous failed IVF cycles, and lifestyle-related stress.

Diagnosis

Before IVF, a couple undergoes fertility evaluation including hormone tests, ovarian reserve testing (AMH, FSH levels), semen analysis, ultrasound scans, hysterosalpingography (to check fallopian tubes), and genetic screening if needed.

Prevention

While infertility cannot always be prevented, steps that improve IVF outcomes include maintaining a healthy weight, balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking and alcohol, managing stress, and addressing medical conditions early.

Celebs Affected

Many celebrities have openly discussed using IVF: Priyanka Chopra & Nick Jonas (via surrogacy), Chrissy Teigen & John Legend, Courteney Cox, and Celine Dion have shared their IVF journeys to spread awareness.

Specialist to Visit

Couples should consult reproductive endocrinologists, infertility specialists, gynecologists, urologists (for male infertility), and embryologists who manage the IVF process.

Treatment

• Ovarian Stimulation: Fertility medications stimulate egg production.
• Egg Retrieval: Eggs are collected from the ovaries.
• Sperm Collection: Partner or donor sperm is collected.
• Fertilization: Eggs and sperm are combined in a lab.
• Embryo Culture: Embryos are monitored for growth.
• Embryo Transfer: A selected embryo is placed into the uterus.
• Pregnancy Test: Conducted 10–14 days later to confirm success.

Home-Care

During IVF treatment, home care includes a healthy diet rich in protein and vitamins, hydration, avoiding alcohol and smoking, limiting caffeine, gentle exercise (yoga, walking), taking prescribed medications on time, and emotional support through counseling or support groups.

Complications

Possible complications include multiple pregnancies (twins/triplets), ectopic pregnancy, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), miscarriage, emotional stress, and financial strain due to the high cost of treatment.

Alternative Therapies

Complementary approaches like acupuncture, yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and nutritional therapy are sometimes used alongside IVF to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. However, they should not replace medical treatment.

Living with

Living with IVF treatment can be emotionally and physically demanding. Patients may need multiple cycles for success. Emotional support, counseling, open communication between partners, and connecting with IVF support groups can help in coping with the process.

FAQs