In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a form of assisted reproductive technology that involves fertilization of eggs by sperm in the laboratory.
“Hope is warmth against the cold winter of adversity.”
- Terri Guillemets
Since the first birth from IVF in 1978 in England, this procedure has become an integral part of infertility treatment options.
The IVF process usually lasts seven weeks. The first five weeks are dedicated to ovarian suppression. In week six, ovarian stimulation with fertility injections takes place. The last week involves surgical retrieval of eggs from the ovary and, five days later, transfer of embryos into the uterus (or an option of delayed transfer, or “freeze-all” process). Ovarian stimulation during week six involves daily injections and regular visits for ultrasounds and blood hormone levels.
Egg retrieval is a 30 to 45 minute procedure performed under intravenous sedation at the Bennett Fertility Institute (BFI) operating suite. Under ultrasound guidance, a needle is inserted vaginally into the ovaries, and follicular fluid containing eggs is aspirated. Several hours later, sperm and eggs are combined in the laboratory (“in vitro”). Incubation of sperm and eggs in the laboratory usually lasts five days.
Embryo transfer, a procedure in which embryos are transferred into the uterus, is performed usually 5 days after retrieval. The procedure lasts 10 to 15 minutes and requires no anesthesia. It is performed under ultrasound guidance. Two weeks later, a pregnancy test is performed.
Indications:
Contraindications, complications, adverse effects:
The INTEGRIS Bennett Fertility Institute in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma provides advanced infertility diagnostic studies and treatment co patients who fail to conceive by less extensive means. The Institute offers assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), micromanipulation, embryo, egg, and sperm cryopreservation(freezing and banking), egg and embryo donation, and pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT).