How long does IVF take
IVF is a method of assisting pregnancy through in vitro fertilization (IVF). For some couples who cannot conceive naturally, IVF is the hope to realize their reproductive dreams. However, the whole process of IVF is not simple, which requires a certain amount of time and various preparations. The process of IVF will be described in detail below.
1. Preparatory period
Before deciding to carry out IVF, couples need to first undergo physical examination and relevant examinations to ensure that their physical conditions are suitable for IVF. This preparatory period usually takes about one month. At this stage, the couple needs to carry out blood tests, endocrine hormone tests, cervical swab tests, etc. to assess the woman's ovarian function and uterine condition.
At the same time, couples also need to receive psychological counseling, understand the process and possible risks of IVF, and determine whether they are really willing to try this method. The time of this stage can be determined according to the couple's personal conditions and the specific arrangements suggested by the doctor.
2. Ovulation promotion and egg retrieval
After the preparation of the preparatory period, the next stage is to promote ovulation and take eggs. This phase usually takes 2-3 weeks. First, the woman needs hormone therapy to promote ovarian development and follicle growth. Doctors will conduct regular ultrasound and blood tests to determine the best time for egg retrieval.
When the follicle grows to a certain size, the doctor will take the egg. This operation is usually performed under local anesthesia, and the eggs in mature follicles are aspirated through vaginal injection needles. This operation usually takes 10-20 minutes, and the eggs taken will be sent to the laboratory for in vitro fertilization.
3. Fertilization and embryo culture
The egg after taking the egg will be put into the culture dish together with the sperm for in vitro fertilization. This process usually takes several hours. The doctor will observe the fertilization and evaluate the quality of the fertilized eggs. Generally, the fertilization rate is about 50%.
After successful fertilization, the embryo will continue to be cultured for several days. Doctors will select the best embryo for transplantation according to the development of the embryo. The time of embryo culture can be determined according to the doctor's advice, usually 3-5 days.
4. Embryo transfer and observation
Embryo transfer is the last step in the IVF process, usually on the 3-5 days of embryo culture. This process is very simple. The doctor will put the best embryo into the uterus through the vagina. After transplantation, the woman needs a period of rest to avoid strenuous exercise.
After that, couples need to wait about 2 weeks for blood tests to determine whether pregnancy is successful. During this period, the woman needs to continue taking some auxiliary drugs to increase the probability of implantation and pregnancy.
Summary
From the beginning of the preparation period to the observation after embryo transfer, the whole IVF process takes about one month. However, it is not guaranteed that every pregnancy will be successful, because the success rate of IVF is related to many factors, including the ovarian function of the woman, the condition of the uterus, the quality of the man's sperm, etc. Couples need to wait patiently and cooperate with the doctor's treatment plan, and also need to actively face possible failures and difficulties.
Test tube baby is a medical means with high technical content, which needs the support and guidance of professional hospitals and doctors. Before IVF, couples should fully understand the relevant knowledge and communicate and consult with doctors in detail. Through careful preparation and scientific operation, the success rate of IVF can be improved and couples' reproductive dreams can be realized.
