In Vitro Fertilisation
In Vitro Fertilisation
In vitro fertilisation (IVF) consists of series of procedures used to help the couples with inability to conceive naturally or to prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child.
During IVF, mature eggs are collected from ovaries and fertilised by sperm in a lab. Then the fertilised egg called embryo or embryos are transferred to a womb. One full cycle of IVF takes about three weeks. Sometimes these steps are split into different parts and the process might take longer.
IVF is the most effective form of assisted reproductive technology. The procedure can be done using a couple’s own eggs and sperm. Or IVF may involve eggs, sperm, or embryos from an anonymous donor. In some cases, a gestational carrier — someone who has an embryo implanted in the uterus — might be used. The chances of having a healthy baby using IVF depend on many factors, such as your age and the cause of infertility. In addition, IVF can be time-consuming, expensive, and invasive. If more than one embryo is transferred to the uterus, IVF can result in a pregnancy with more than one foetus (multiple pregnancy). Your doctor can help you understand and decide how IVF works, the potential risks and whether this method of treating infertility is right for you. |  |
