In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Tests Required Before IVF

Before starting IVF, a set of investigations are recommended to optimise chances of success:

• Ovarian Reserve Testing: Evaluates egg quantity and quality (AMH, AFC, etc.).
• Semen Analysis: Assesses sperm count, motility and morphology for the male partner.
• Infectious Disease Screening: Tests for infections in both partners to ensure safety.
• Uterine Cavity Examination: Hysteroscopy or ultrasound to check uterine health and receptivity.

Precautions During IVF Treatment

Following these precautions helps improve outcomes and reduces complications:

• Take injections and medications exactly as prescribed.
• Avoid sexual intercourse after 6–7 days from starting injections (as advised).
• Refrain from smoking, alcohol and recreational substances.
• Avoid heavy lifting or activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure.
• Maintain a balanced, nutritious diet and adequate hydration.
• Practice stress-reducing activities such as yoga or meditation.

Steps in an IVF Cycle

An IVF cycle follows a sequence of well-timed steps to maximise fertilisation and implantation:

• Ovarian Stimulation: Hormonal injections start (usually Day 2 of cycle) to develop multiple follicles.
• Monitoring: Regular blood tests and ultrasound scans track follicle growth (typically 10–12 days).
• Trigger Injection: Given to induce final egg maturation when follicles are ready.
• Egg Retrieval: Eggs are collected under ultrasound guidance.
• Fertilisation: Eggs are fertilised with partner or donor sperm in the lab (conventional IVF or ICSI).
• Embryo Culture: Embryos are cultured for 3–5 days; best embryos may be frozen.
• Embryo Transfer: Fresh or frozen embryo(s) are transferred to the uterus (commonly Day 15–19 for fresh transfer).
• Supportive Medications: Hormonal support (oral/vaginal) is continued for 12–15 days post-transfer and, if pregnant, up to 10–12 weeks as advised.

During stimulation patients may experience mild bloating, nausea or abdominal discomfort—these usually resolve with monitoring and care.

When to Consider Ovarian Stimulation with IVF?

Ovarian stimulation is recommended in situations such as:

• Low ovarian reserve or advanced maternal age.
• Irregular or absent ovulation.
• Need to retrieve multiple eggs for IVF or fertility preservation.
• Couples using donor eggs or planning embryo banking.

How Ovarian Stimulation is Done

Stimulation typically uses daily injections of FSH (±LH) for 8–14 days to promote multiple follicle growth. Progress is monitored by ultrasound and blood tests. A trigger shot induces final maturation, followed by egg retrieval. This approach increases the number of quality embryos available for transfer or freezing.

Success Rates: With ovarian stimulation, IVF success ranges roughly between 40%–55% per cycle, depending on age, ovarian response and individual factors.

Benefits of IVF

IVF offers several advantages for couples facing infertility:

• Increases the chances of pregnancy when other treatments fail.
• Allows use of donor eggs or sperm when needed.
• Enables genetic screening of embryos to reduce risk of inherited disorders.
• Gives couples control over timing and planning of pregnancy.

At Panacea Fertility Center, personalised IVF protocols and experienced care aim to give each couple the best possible outcome.