Detailed introduction of IVF process
IVF, or assisted reproductive technology (ART) baby, refers to the baby conceived by transferring the fertilized egg to the mother through an artificially controlled IVF process. This process usually includes many steps, such as ovulation regulation, egg retrieval, sperm treatment, fertilized egg culture, embryo evaluation and transplantation.
1. Ovulation regulation and egg retrieval
Before the IVF process begins, women usually need to receive ovulation regulation treatment to produce multiple follicles at the right time. This is usually through the use of drugs to inhibit the natural ovulation cycle, and then use ovulation promoting drugs to stimulate follicular development. Once the follicle has developed to the proper size, doctors will use ultrasound guided fine needles to take eggs through the vagina. This process is usually carried out in the operating room or clinic, and is completed under local anesthesia or intravenous sedation.
In the process of egg retrieval, doctors use fine needles to puncture the ovary and extract the mature eggs from the follicle. The process of egg retrieval usually requires monitoring of women to ensure that eggs are retrieved before they are mature but not released.
2. Sperm treatment and fertilized egg culture
After the female takes the eggs, the male provides a semen sample. Sperm will be processed to select the best sperm. Usually, sperm will be separated by centrifugation and washing to remove inactive or abnormal sperm. Then, sperm and mature eggs are combined in vitro for in vitro fertilization. The fertilized eggs will then be transferred to the culture dish and continue to be cultured in the laboratory.
The culture of fertilized eggs usually lasts for 2-6 days, during which multiple embryo evaluations will be carried out. The evaluation mainly determines the quality of the embryo by observing the cell division, embryonic development and morphology of the embryo.
3. Embryo transfer and implantation
According to the results of embryo evaluation, doctors will select the healthiest embryo for transplantation. Embryo transfer is usually a simple operation by introducing the embryo into the uterus through a thin tube. This process usually does not require anesthesia, but can be carried out as needed.
After embryo transfer, women need to rest and observe. The process of embryo implantation in the uterus usually takes several days. If the embryo is successfully implanted and developed, a pregnancy test may be performed after 10 to 14 days to determine whether the pregnancy is successful.
4. Expenses and hospital selection
The cost of IVF varies by region and hospital. Generally speaking, the cost of IVF includes diagnosis, treatment, surgery, drugs, laboratory tests and follow-up. The specific amount of expenses shall be determined according to personal conditions and the requirements of the hospital.
Choosing the right hospital is an important step in IVF. We should choose a formal specialized hospital for assisted reproductive technology, and have a comprehensive understanding of the hospital's equipment, technology and doctors' experience. Some well-known hospitals, such as Beijing Union Medical College Hospital Assisted Reproduction Center, Shanghai Jiaotong University Medical College Ruijin Hospital Reproductive and Genetic Medicine Center, have rich experience and advanced facilities in the field of IVF.
summary
The process of IVF usually includes ovulation regulation, egg retrieval, sperm treatment, fertilized egg culture, embryo evaluation and transplantation. Cost and hospital selection are important for IVF success. It is hoped that families in need can realize their dreams through IVF technology.
