Infertility to Parenthood: Understanding the ABCs of IVF Treatment
IVF, PGT, IUI—what do they mean? Find out how these terms could change your life.
For anyone navigating infertility, terms like IVF, PGT, IUI, and ER can seem overwhelming. But understanding these concepts is crucial as you embark on your fertility journey. At Caperton Fertility Institute, we believe that clarity is power. This blog will break down the IVF process into digestible steps, arming you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions and increase your chances of success.
What is IVF? The Basics You Need to Know
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a highly effective fertility treatment that has helped countless individuals and couples achieve their dream of parenthood. In simple terms, IVF involves fertilizing an egg with sperm in a laboratory and then transferring the resulting embryo(s) into the uterus. The process can seem complicated, but when broken down step-by-step, it becomes much easier to understand.
Step 1: Planning Your IVF Cycle
The first step is selecting the right time to begin your IVF cycle. Timing is crucial—choose a month when you can fully commit to the process without work or travel distractions. You’ll need to visit the fertility clinic multiple times during this period for monitoring and tests.
Learn more about the importance of timing and preparation for IVF from Mayo Clinic.
Step 2: Ovulation Suppression
Contrary to what you might expect, your IVF journey often begins with birth control pills. Why? To control your natural cycle and prevent ovulation. This is critical because spontaneous ovulation could disrupt the entire IVF process. Some patients also receive a daily injection to further prevent ovulation, setting the stage for controlled ovarian stimulation.
Step 3: Stimulating the Ovaries
Once your cycle is under control, it’s time to stimulate your ovaries. You’ll start taking injectable fertility medications that encourage the growth of multiple follicles. Each follicle holds a potential egg, and the more eggs retrieved, the better your chances of a successful outcome. Typically, you’ll be on these medications for 8-10 days, during which you’ll have several ultrasounds to monitor your progress.
Step 4: Trigger Shot and Egg Retrieval
When your follicles reach the optimal size, you’ll take a “trigger shot” of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin). This shot mimics your body’s natural LH surge, telling your eggs to mature. Timing here is everything—your egg retrieval will be scheduled exactly 36 hours after the shot.
The egg retrieval is a quick, minimally invasive procedure performed under sedation at our clinic. You’ll be able to go home the same day. The eggs are then handed over to our embryologists, who will fertilize them with sperm and monitor the developing embryos.
Step 5: Fertilization and Embryo Development
Once fertilization occurs, your embryos are carefully monitored over the next five to six days. At this stage, they’re growing into blastocysts, which have the potential to become healthy babies. Some patients opt for Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), where a few cells are biopsied from the embryo to check for genetic abnormalities. This step can significantly increase your chances of a successful pregnancy.
Step 6: Embryo Transfer
Once your embryos reach the blastocyst stage, they’re ready for transfer. The embryologist selects the best-quality embryo(s) for transfer based on your specific circumstances. This delicate procedure involves placing the embryo(s) into your uterus, with the hope they will implant and result in a healthy pregnancy.
Step 7: The Two-Week Wait
After the embryo transfer, you’ll enter the infamous “two-week wait” (2WW). During this time, you’ll wait to take a pregnancy test to determine if the transfer was successful. It’s a period filled with anticipation and anxiety, but remember—you’re not alone. The team at Caperton Fertility Institute is here to support you every step of the way.
Understanding IVF Success Rates
IVF success rates vary based on several factors, including age and ovarian reserve. Generally, women under 35 have a 60% success rate with one IVF cycle. For women in their early 40s, the rate decreases to around 20%. However, multiple cycles may be necessary to achieve a genetically normal embryo, especially as age increases.
Final Thoughts
The IVF process is intricate, but understanding each step can make the journey less daunting. At Caperton Fertility Institute, we’re committed to providing you with the highest level of care and support, tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re just beginning your fertility journey or exploring your options, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
If you have more questions or are ready to take the next step, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to guide you toward your dream of parenthood with compassion and expertise.
