IVF

IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is a medical procedure used to help individuals or couples conceive a child when natural conception is difficult or not possible. It’s one of the most common and effective forms of assisted reproductive technology (ART)

IVF can be a life-changing option for individuals and couples facing fertility challenges. While it’s a powerful tool in reproductive medicine, it involves complex decisions - emotional, financial, and ethical. Support from medical professionals, counsellors, and loved ones is essential throughout the journey.

What Happens in IVF?  The IVF process typically involves several key steps:

Ovarian Stimulation - The person with ovaries takes hormone medications to stimulate the production of multiple eggs (instead of the usual one per cycle).

Egg Retrieval - Once the eggs are mature, they are collected from the ovaries using a needle, usually under ultrasound guidance and light sedation.

Sperm Collection - A sperm sample is collected from a partner or donor.

Fertilization - The retrieved eggs are combined with sperm in a laboratory dish. Fertilization occurs in vitro (Latin for “in glass”).

Embryo Culture - The fertilized eggs (now embryos) are monitored for several days as they develop. The healthiest embryos are selected for transfer.

Embryo Transfer - One or more embryos are placed into the uterus. If successful, one will implant and grow into a pregnancy.

Pregnancy Test - About two weeks later, a blood test is completed to confirm whether implantation was successful.