Four stages of IVF
IVF refers to the process of insemination, culture and transfer of embryos in vitro with the help of assisted reproductive technology, and finally pregnancy and successful delivery. The whole process can be divided into four stages, namely, the early preparation of IVF, in vitro fertilization and embryo culture, embryo transfer and pregnancy monitoring. The specific process and hospital practice of each stage will be described in detail below.
Stage I: Preparation of IVF
The early preparation of IVF includes the selection of the medical team, the collection and analysis of medical records, and the elimination of possible health barriers. When selecting a medical team, patients can consult local reproductive hospitals, such as the Reproductive Medical Center of Peking Union Medical College Hospital. The medical team will conduct detailed physical examination and medical record analysis to understand the reproductive health of patients. In addition, psychological counseling may also be needed to help patients and their families face possible difficulties and setbacks.
After removing possible health barriers, doctors will work with patients to develop personalized treatment plans. Depending on the patient's condition, ovulation induction therapy or egg extraction may be required. For example, if a woman has a blocked fallopian tube, she may need to restore fallopian tube patency through salpingography, or stimulate ovulation through ovulation induction therapy. The whole preparatory stage usually takes several months.
Stage II: In vitro fertilization and embryo culture
In vitro fertilization and embryo culture are the core stages of IVF technology. This stage mainly includes egg collection, sperm and egg combination, embryo culture and screening. The collection of eggs is usually carried out during the ovulation period of women, and can be carried out through ultrasound guided ovarian puncture technology or laparoscopic surgery.
The collected eggs are combined with sperm in an in vitro culture dish to form a fertilized egg. Then, after the fertilized egg is cultivated, the doctor will select the embryo with high development potential for transplantation according to the evaluation indicators of the embryo. The time for embryo culture is usually 3-5 days, during which the doctor will observe the development and quality of the embryo and select the most suitable embryo for transfer.
Stage 3: embryo transfer
Embryo transfer is the key link of IVF technology. After the embryo has reached the appropriate stage, the doctor will select the most suitable embryo and transplant it into the female uterus through a catheter. This process is usually carried out in the gynecological treatment room, and ultrasound guidance is used to ensure the accuracy of transplantation.
After embryo transfer, patients need a period of rest and recovery, while taking appropriate drugs to protect the implantation of embryos. If all goes well, the embryo will be implanted in the uterus and continue to develop. At this time, patients can carry out routine life and work, but they need to pay attention to maintaining a stable mood and avoiding strenuous exercise.
Stage IV: pregnancy monitoring
Once the embryo is successfully implanted, pregnancy begins. Patients will need to go to the reproductive center for pregnancy monitoring on a regular basis. The doctor will conduct prenatal examination for pregnant women to ensure the healthy development of the fetus. During the whole pregnancy, the patient may need to follow a specific diet and lifestyle to avoid adverse effects on the fetus. Doctors will also carry out appropriate prenatal testing and protection according to the progress of pregnancy to ensure the health of pregnant women and fetuses.
In a word, the process of IVF can be divided into four stages: preliminary preparation, in vitro fertilization and embryo culture, embryo transfer and pregnancy monitoring. Each stage is important and requires the joint efforts of doctors and patients. Through this series of technologies and monitoring measures, IVF provides a reliable birth choice for couples who cannot conceive naturally.
