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Dr. Prashant JoshiIVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is a fertility treatment where female eggs and male sperm are fertilized outside the body in a lab. This method is used for individuals or couples facing difficulty achieving pregnancy.
When and Why is IVF Performed?
IVF is recommended for various reasons:
- Infertility Issues
- Genetic Issues
- Existing health conditions in one partner
- Age >40 years
It is also an option for couples with same-sex partners or individuals who wish to have a baby without a partner.
IVF Procedure
IVF involves several steps over 4-6 weeks:
- Medications (Birth control pills or Estrogen)
- Ovarian Stimulation
- Egg Retrieval
- Fertilization
- Embryo Development
- Embryo Transfer (Fresh or Frozen)
- Pregnancy
Is IVF a Common Procedure?
About 5% of couples facing infertility opt for IVF. It is highly effective, with millions of babies born through IVF globally.
IVF and IUI: What is the Difference?
| IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) | IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) |
|---|---|
| Fertilization occurs in a person’s body | Fertilization occurs in a lab |
| Less Expensive | More Expensive |
| Less Invasive | Complex process |
| Low success rate | High success rate |
| High-quality sperm are directly inserted into your uterus | Sperm and egg are fertilized in a lab and placed in your uterus as an embryo |
Process of IVF Treatment
- Medications (Birth control pills or Estrogen)
- Ovarian Stimulation
- Egg Retrieval
- Fertilization
- Embryo Development
- Embryo Transfer
- Pregnancy
How To Prepare for IVF Treatment?
Before starting IVF, thorough medical examinations and fertility tests are necessary for both partners. Tests may include uterine exams, semen analysis, genetic screening, and more.
What To Expect After IVF Treatment?
After embryo transfer, mild symptoms such as bloating, cramping, and breast tenderness may occur. Normal activities can usually be resumed, with a follow-up pregnancy test scheduled 9-14 days later.
IVF Benefits
- Helps people who cannot conceive
- High success rate with a safe track record
- Useful for single women and same-sex couples
- Helps diagnose fertilization problems
- Decreased chances of Miscarriage
- No barriers or limitations
IVF Risks
- Multiple births (twins or triplets)
- Premature delivery
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
IVF Safety Precautions
- Avoiding intercourse, heavy lifting, heavy exercise, smoking, alcohol, and caffeine
- Taking medications as prescribed
- Avoiding heat and harmful chemicals
- Eating a well-balanced diet
How Long Do You Need to Wait After a Failed IVF Procedure?
It is generally recommended to wait for one menstrual cycle between IVF processes, typically about 4-6 weeks, for health and emotional reasons.
When to Call the Doctor After IVF?
- Fever >100.5 degrees Fahrenheit
- Blood in urine
- Heavy bleeding from vagina
- Severe pelvic pain
Can IVF Cause Birth Defects?
IVF alone may not directly cause birth defects, but some studies suggest a slightly higher risk, possibly due to delayed conception or underlying infertility issues.
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