How long is the cycle of IVF?
Test tube baby is a kind of assisted reproduction technology that fertilized eggs are cultured in vitro and then implanted into the mother's uterus. It has become the choice of many infertile couples. So, how long is the cycle of IVF? The following will be elaborated from several aspects.
Egg retrieval cycle
Fetching eggs is the first step in the process of IVF. It refers to the collection of mature eggs by stimulating the ovaries with ovulation promoting drugs. The length of the egg retrieval cycle varies from person to person, generally about 10 to 14 days. The specific length depends on women's physical condition, ovulation function, ovarian response and other factors.
The process of egg retrieval requires minimally invasive surgical operations such as tuboscopy or laparoscopy. This process needs to be carried out in the hospital, usually under local anesthesia. After taking the eggs, they will be sent to the laboratory immediately for in vitro culture.
In the process of egg retrieval, the doctor will determine the best time for egg retrieval according to the development of the egg. By closely monitoring the development of eggs, the probability of successful egg retrieval can be improved.
In vitro culture cycle
In vitro culture refers to the culture of fertilized eggs in a culture dish in a specific medium. This process usually lasts three to five days. During this time, the fertilized egg will develop into a blastocyst or decidua, and then be transplanted back to the mother's uterus.
The length of the in vitro culture cycle will also vary depending on individual differences. In some cases, doctors may choose to extend the culture to help select the best blastocysts for transplantation.
During the in vitro culture cycle, doctors will observe the development of the fertilized eggs to screen the best embryos.
Prepare endometrial cycle
At the same time of in vitro culture, women need to prepare endometrium to create a suitable environment for embryo implantation. The length of the endometrial preparation cycle is usually between 10 and 14 days.
In this process, women will receive hormone therapy to help the growth and preparation of the endometrium. Doctors will monitor the status of endometrium through ultrasound and blood tests.
Embryo transfer cycle
Embryo transfer is the last step in the process of IVF, which is the process of implanting the cultured embryos into the mother's uterus. The embryo transfer cycle is usually carried out on the 3rd to 5th days of the in vitro culture cycle.
The process of embryo transfer is relatively simple and usually does not require anesthesia. The doctor will use a catheter to implant the embryo into the mother's uterus, and then confirm the location of the implantation through ultrasound examination.
After embryo transfer, women need to rest for a period of time and receive relevant drug treatment. In the next two weeks or so, a blood test is needed to determine whether the pregnancy is successful.
To sum up, the IVF cycle includes egg retrieval cycle, in vitro culture cycle, endometrial preparation cycle and embryo transfer cycle. The whole process takes about 3 to 5 weeks. However, everyone's situation is unique, so the specific cycle length will be different. If couples decide to try IVF technology, it is best to consult a professional doctor for comprehensive evaluation and guidance according to their personal conditions.
