IVF Explained
Understanding In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)
In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is one of the most well-known fertility treatments. It involves collecting eggs from the ovaries, fertilising them with sperm in a laboratory and transferring an embryo into the uterus with the aim of achieving pregnancy.
IVF may be recommended when pregnancy has not occurred naturally, when other fertility treatments have been unsuccessful, or when certain medical conditions make natural conception less likely.
Although IVF can offer hope to many people, it is also physically and emotionally demanding. Understanding each stage of the process can help you feel more prepared and confident throughout your treatment.
What Is IVF?
Unlike natural conception, where fertilisation takes place inside the fallopian tube, IVF allows fertilisation to occur in a laboratory.
Once an embryo has developed, it is transferred into the uterus where it may implant and develop into a pregnancy.
Not every egg will fertilise, not every fertilised egg will develop into an embryo and not every embryo will implant successfully. This is a normal part of IVF and one of the reasons treatment can sometimes take more than one cycle.
When Might IVF Be Recommended?
Your fertility specialist may recommend IVF if:
Both fallopian tubes are blocked or have been removed.
Severe endometriosis is affecting fertility.
Male factor infertility is present.
IUI has been unsuccessful.
Ovulation induction has not resulted in pregnancy.
There is unexplained infertility after other treatments have been tried.
Donor eggs, donor sperm or donor embryos are being used.
Genetic testing of embryos is being considered in selected circumstances.
The decision to recommend IVF depends on your individual medical history, fertility investigations and personal circumstances.
The Stages of IVF
Fertility Medication
Treatment usually begins with hormone injections that stimulate the ovaries to produce several mature eggs instead of the single egg released during a natural cycle.
During this time, you'll attend regular ultrasound scans and, in some cases, blood tests to monitor how your ovaries are responding.
Egg Collection
When the eggs are ready, they are collected during a minor procedure performed under sedation or anaesthetic.
Using ultrasound guidance, a fine needle is passed through the vaginal wall into the ovaries to collect the eggs from the follicles.
The procedure usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes.
Fertilisation
The eggs are taken to the laboratory, where they are combined with sperm.
In some situations, fertilisation occurs by simply placing the eggs and sperm together. In others, a technique called ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) may be used, where a single sperm is injected directly into each mature egg.
Embryo Development
The fertilised eggs are monitored in the laboratory for several days as they develop into embryos.
Embryologists assess the embryos based on their appearance and development before deciding which embryo is most suitable for transfer.
Some embryos may also be frozen for future treatment.
Embryo Transfer
One embryo is usually transferred into the uterus using a thin catheter passed gently through the cervix.
The procedure is usually quick and does not normally require sedation.
Any suitable remaining embryos may be frozen for future use.
The Two-Week Wait
Following embryo transfer comes the period many people describe as the most emotionally challenging part of IVF.
Approximately 10–14 days later, you'll usually be asked to take a pregnancy test to find out whether implantation has occurred.
How Successful Is IVF?
Success rates vary considerably depending on several factors, including:
Age.
Egg quality.
Sperm quality.
The cause of infertility.
Overall reproductive health.
Whether fresh or frozen embryos are being used.
Your fertility clinic will discuss your individual chances of success based on your medical history and circumstances.
What Are the Risks?
Although IVF is considered a safe treatment, potential risks include:
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS).
Multiple pregnancy, although transferring a single embryo has significantly reduced this risk.
Ectopic pregnancy.
Miscarriage.
Emotional stress.
Side effects from fertility medication.
Your healthcare team will discuss these risks with you before treatment begins.
Advantages of IVF
Can overcome many different causes of infertility.
Suitable when the fallopian tubes are blocked or absent.
Allows embryos to be frozen for future treatment.
Can be combined with donor eggs, donor sperm or donor embryos.
Offers the highest success rates of many fertility treatments for suitable patients.
Limitations of IVF
IVF cannot guarantee pregnancy.
Some treatment cycles may not produce enough eggs, fertilisation may not occur or embryos may not develop as expected.
Even when good-quality embryos are transferred, implantation is not guaranteed.
Sometimes more than one treatment cycle is needed before a successful pregnancy is achieved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IVF painful?
Many people find the hormone injections manageable, although some experience bruising or discomfort. Egg collection is usually performed under sedation or anaesthetic, and mild cramping afterwards is common.
How long does an IVF cycle take?
A typical IVF cycle usually takes around four to six weeks from the start of medication to the pregnancy test, although treatment plans vary.
Can frozen embryos be used later?
Yes. Suitable embryos can often be frozen and transferred during a future frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle.
What if IVF doesn't work?
A negative result can be incredibly difficult. Your fertility specialist will review your treatment, discuss what was learned from the cycle and explore whether further treatment or alternative options may be appropriate.
A Gentle Reminder
IVF is often portrayed as a guaranteed solution to infertility, but the reality is far more complex. Every treatment cycle is unique, and every person's experience is different. Whether your journey is straightforward or filled with unexpected challenges, it's important to remember that needing IVF is not a reflection of your worth or your determination. Whatever the outcome, seeking treatment is a courageous step, and support is available throughout every stage of the journey.