In in vitro fertilization (IVF), science and hope unite for those dreaming of welcoming a baby. We explain the process from start to finish.
How is in vitro fertilization performed step by step?
1. Ovarian stimulation: you receive hormones (150–300 IU of FSH/LH) so your ovaries develop multiple follicles.
2. Follicular puncture: under light sedation, mature eggs are retrieved with an ultrasound-guided needle.
3. Semen preparation: we collect a 2–5 mL sample and select the most motile sperm.
4. In vitro fertilization: oocytes and sperm are placed together in a ~100 µL culture medium. After 16–18 h the zygote forms, and at 48 h it becomes a 4–8 cell embryo ready for transfer.
When is IVF recommended?
- Damage or blockage of the fallopian tubes.
- Moderate to severe endometriosis.
- Severe male factor (low count or motility).
- Women ≥35 years with reduced ovarian reserve.
- Failures in other fertility treatments.
Before starting, consult an assisted reproduction specialist; they will tell you if this treatment is the best path for you.
Preparation for your IVF cycle
Your doctor will request hormonal tests (FSH, LH, AMH), a transvaginal ultrasound, and a semen analysis. Adopt a healthy lifestyle: balanced diet, moderate exercise, and stress management. Avoid tobacco and alcohol at least 3 months beforehand.
You can also seek nutritional counseling and psychological support to feel accompanied at every stage.
Follicular puncture and fertilization
The puncture takes 20–30 minutes with local anesthesia or sedation. An average of 8–15 eggs are retrieved. In the lab, we assess quality and fertilize them by conventional IVF or ICSI, depending on your case.
Embryos grow in incubators at 37 °C, 5 % CO₂, and 95 % humidity until reaching the blastocyst stage (day 5).
Embryo transfer and beyond
Between day 3 and 5, we select 1–2 top-quality embryos and deposit them in your uterus under ultrasound guidance. The procedure is brief; afterward you’ll rest for 24–48 h and receive progesterone (600 mg/day vaginally or 50 mg IM).
Two weeks later, a serum beta-hCG test is performed. If positive, you continue hormonal support until weeks 10–12 of gestation.
For a deeper dive into each phase, visit Understand in vitro fertilization step by step and Understand in vitro fertilization.
Frequently asked questions
1. What influences success rates?
Maternal age (<35 years up to 40% success vs. 20% at 40), egg and sperm quality, and lab experience. Lifestyle habits, body mass index, and infertility causes also matter.
2. Does it hurt or carry risks?
The main discomfort is the follicular puncture, managed with sedation. Hormonal injections may cause mild discomfort. Risks: ovarian hyperstimulation (1–5%), mild bleeding or infection, and multiple pregnancy if multiple embryos are transferred.
3. Can I use donors?
Yes, if your ovarian reserve or sperm quality is low. Donors undergo genetic, infectious, and psychological screening. The IVF protocol is the same; only the gametes change.
4. When will I know if I’m pregnant?
You wait 10–14 days post-transfer for the beta-hCG test. If positive, a heartbeat is confirmed by ultrasound at 5–6 weeks and obstetric follow-up begins.
Sources
- American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Practice Committee Guidelines. Fertility and Sterility (2021).
- MedlinePlus. In Vitro Fertilization. U.S. National Library of Medicine (2022).
- European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. Vienna Consensus on GnRH analogue protocols in ART (2020).
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Fertility: Assessment and treatment (2017).
Remember: each path to parenthood is unique. If you have questions or want more information, consult an assisted reproduction specialist. You are not alone on this journey!