IVF Specialist
at Benecare, Pune

The next stage in the IVF process is referred to as ovarian stimulation or controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). To stimulate the ovaries and encourage the growth of multiple mature eggs, you will receive a prescription for fertility medications, usually in the form of injectables. The medication protocol will be personalized to suit your individual requirements and closely monitored through regular ultrasound scans and hormone level assessments to ensure optimal results.

Once the eggs have reached the desired level of maturity, a scheduled egg retrieval procedure takes place. This procedure is usually performed with the guidance of ultrasound and under light anesthesia. A fine needle is inserted through the vaginal wall into the ovaries, and the follicular fluid containing the eggs is gently aspirated. The entire procedure typically lasts around 15-20 minutes, after which the eggs are carefully transferred to the embryology laboratory.

To proceed with the egg harvest, a semen sample is needed from your spouse. Typically, on the same day as the egg retrieval, a fresh semen sample is obtained. However, if it is not possible to collect a fresh sample or if your spouse is unavailable on that day, a previously frozen sample can be used. The sperm and eggs will then be combined in a petri dish by a skilled technician.

There are two primary methods of fertilization used in IVF – conventional IVF and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). Conventional IVF involves combining the retrieved eggs and prepared sperm in a culture dish to allow natural fertilization to occur. However, in cases of severe male factor infertility or other specific circumstances, ICSI may be recommended. This method involves injecting a single sperm directly into each mature egg to facilitate fertilization.

The progress of your embryos will be closely monitored as they develop. It’s important to note that not all fertilized eggs will become viable embryos suitable for transfer to your uterus. On average, only 50% of fertilized embryos progress to the blastocyst stage, which is the ideal stage for transfer. Any viable embryos suitable for transfer will be frozen on the fifth or sixth day post-fertilization for future use in embryo transfers.

In certain cases, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) may be recommended. PGT involves the biopsy of one or a few cells from each embryo for genetic testing. This can screen for chromosomal abnormalities or specific genetic conditions, helping select the healthiest embryos for transfer.

In accordance with various considerations, including the quality of the embryos, the quantity of available embryos, and individual circumstances, the most appropriate embryos are chosen for transfer. The transfer of embryos is generally conducted without the need for anesthesia. A slender catheter housing the embryos is delicately inserted into the uterus via the cervix. Subsequently, the embryos are gently released into the uterine cavity.

After undergoing the embryo transfer procedure, you will be recommended to take a brief period of rest before resuming regular activities. A pregnancy test is typically arranged approximately 10-14 days following the embryo transfer to ascertain the success of the treatment. In the event of a positive pregnancy result, further monitoring and assistance will be given to ensure the health and prosperity of the pregnancy.