In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)
Reasons for IVF include:
- Damaged, blocked or absent fallopian tubes;
- Unexplained infertility, where there is no apparent cause found for the infertility, despite thorough investigation;
- Endometriosis. This is a condition where the cells normally lining the uterus grow in other parts of the body. This may lead to formation of adhesions and distortion of the reproductive organs;
- Semen abnormalities, including low sperm counts or reduced sperm motility or increased DNA damage.
IVF treatment involves stimulation of the ovaries with medication for approximately 12 days to produce multiple follicles.
IVF is a medical and surgical procedure that carries its share of side effects and risks. For more information see Side effects and risks of IVF.
Replacement of more than one embryo, especially in women under 38 on their first few cycles, also increases the risk of multiple pregnancy. See the Risks of Multiple Pregnancies.
Egg Collection
Under ultrasound guidance, a needle is passed through the vaginal wall and into each ovary. The follicular fluid containing the egg is aspirated (drained), collected in a test tube and examined under a microscope to ascertain whether an egg has been collected. This procedure is done under a light sedation to relax you and provide pain relief. It should be noted that not all follicles contain eggs.
Human Egg Fertilisation
Egg and sperm are placed together in a special medium to allow for fertilisation. Approximately two thirds of eggs fertilise. However on occasions none fertilise and this may indicate a cause of infertility. If fertilisation has occurred, an embryo transfer occurs several days after egg collection.
The laboratory staff will monitor your eggs and embryos over a number of days. If all is progressing well, they will see you on the day of embryo transfer for an update. If fertilisation has not occurred or embryo development is not progressing as expected, they will contact you prior to embryo transfer to discuss the options.
Embryo Transfer
The embryos are drawn up into a fine plastic catheter, which is passed through the cervix into the uterus where the embryos are carefully placed. This is a simple procedure.
During the second half (luteal phase) of the cycle, medication will be given to increase the level of progesterone, which maintains the lining of the uterus and is essential for the embryo to implant. A blood test will be scheduled 16 days after egg collection to see if you are pregnant.
