The in vitro fertilization (IVF) is to reproduce in the laboratory what happens naturally in the fallopian tube i.e. fertilization and early stages of embryonic development. It takes place in six stages:

IVF Plan Step 1: Ovarian stimulation

The first stage lasts more or less 14 days. It consists of the patient of taking two hormonal drugs in order to stimulate the ovaries and help the production of several oocytes:

· A drug is similar to GnRH that blocks the patient's natural cycle and allows ovulation to be controlled and triggered at the best time.

· A follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH or HMG) to be taken in the form of daily injections. It helps in the production and growth of ovarian follicles (which contain oocytes) and promotes fertilization.

During this stage, the patient is followed by an ultrasound control which makes it possible to monitor the stimulation.

IVF Plan Step 2: The trigger

When the follicles are ready (are the right sizes), you receive a final injection of a specific hormone that triggers ovulation.

The oocyte collection is done 36 hours after this injection.

Step 3: Sampling

The collection of oocytes (follicular puncture) is carried out under general anesthesia and lasts about twenty minutes: the specialist punctures the follicles using a needle through the walls of the vagina and collects the oocytes by aspiration of follicular fluid, the everything under ultrasound control.

The intervention is followed by a few hours of rest in our day hospital. Are you planning for IVF then this is the right time.

IVF Plan Step 4: Fertilization

The sperm collection is carried out on the same day as the egg retrieval, after a period of sexual abstinence of two to four days. It is done in a room provided for this purpose or, if conditions allow, at home. The sperm is prepared in the laboratory and then used to fertilize the oocytes.

The oocytes identified in the follicular fluid are transferred to a culture medium to be fertilized by spermatozoa (IVF). The result of fertilization is observed 20 hours later.

The embryos will then be kept in culture in our laboratory for transfer which will take place 3, 5 or 6 days after fertilization (it depends on the number of embryos obtained). You will have the opportunity to discuss this with the laboratory team during the whole process of developing your embryos. Are you planning for IVF then this is the right time.

IVF Plan Step 5: Embryo transfer

One or two embryos are transferred between 3 and 6 days after fertilization. The embryo (s) is gently deposited in the uterus using a fine catheter. After this painless operation, you can resume your activities normally.

Embryos that are not transferred can then be cryopreserved. They can be used afterwards during a thawing cycle. The data currently available demonstrates that pregnancy rates with cryopreserved embryos are equivalent to a fresh transfer. The law allows your embryos to be kept for 10 years.

In our unit and according to clearly established criteria, we have a single embryo transfer protocol to maximize your chances of pregnancy and minimize the risk of multiple pregnancies that are at risk. We will tell you about it during the whole process of your care.

Step 6: Pregnancy

Sixteen days after the egg retrieval, a blood test confirms the onset of pregnancy. In the case of a negative test, further treatment is discussed with you during a consultation with your doctor.

To know more about IVF Plan, visit the best fertility clinic in India.