Steps of IVF
IVF is a kind of assisted reproductive technology, which is suitable for couples who cannot conceive naturally due to various reasons. The steps of IVF will be described below. 1. Physical examination evaluation
Before IVF treatment, the doctor will conduct a comprehensive physical examination and evaluation for both the husband and wife. By examining women's physical conditions, doctors can determine whether they are suitable for IVF treatment. In addition, doctors will also conduct semen tests on men to understand the quality and quantity of sperm.
If both the husband and wife meet the conditions, the doctor will further evaluate the female's ovarian function, including taking blood samples for hormone level inspection and observing the condition of mature eggs produced by the ovary through ultrasound. These evaluation results will help doctors to determine the best IVF treatment plan.
2. Ovulation guidance and egg retrieval
Once the treatment plan is determined, women will receive ovulation guidance. This means taking hormone drugs to make the ovaries produce more eggs. The doctor will regularly carry out ultrasonic examination according to the condition of women to determine the size and number of follicles. Once the follicles are mature, the doctor will determine the best time to retrieve eggs.
Egg retrieval is a surgical procedure. Doctors will use long and thin tubes to enter the ovary under the guidance of transvaginal ultrasound in the body, and then extract the eggs. This process is usually completed under local anesthesia. The operation time is relatively short, and there are generally no serious complications.
3. Sperm processing and fertilization
Shortly after egg retrieval, men need to provide semen samples. These sperm will be processed in the laboratory to improve the fertilization rate. Normally, doctors will choose the healthiest and most active sperm for fertilization.
The doctor will put the obtained eggs and sperm together in anticipation of fertilization. The fertilized egg will be placed in the culture dish to continue to develop. Usually, doctors will observe the development of eggs within 48-72 hours and select the best embryo for transplantation.
4. Embryo transfer and pregnancy monitoring
Embryo transfer is the last step in IVF treatment. Doctors will insert the best embryos into a woman's uterus through a slender tube. This process usually does not require anesthesia or hospitalization. Then, the doctor will observe the woman's signs and symptoms to determine whether pregnancy has occurred.
After about two weeks, the doctor will conduct a blood test to detect any signs of pregnancy. If the result is positive, the IVF treatment is successful. After that, the doctor will arrange further pregnancy monitoring, including regular ultrasound examination and hormone level examination, to ensure the smooth progress of pregnancy.
summary
IVF is an assisted reproductive technology, which helps couples who cannot conceive naturally realize their dreams of becoming parents through physical examination, ovulation guidance and egg retrieval, sperm processing and fertilization, embryo transfer and pregnancy monitoring. Although each step requires careful operation and precise control, with the progress of technology, the success rate of IVF treatment continues to improve, bringing new hope to infertile couples.
