The IVF process step by step is a topic that is important for couples who are trying to conceive. If you’re just beginning your fertility journey or just exploring treatment options after years of struggle then understanding the process can be very helpful. This blog will guide you with clear information to help you in your journey.
At Risaa IVF, under the expert guidance of Dr. Rita Bakshi (IVF specialist and senior gynecologist). We have helped many couples to turn their dreams into reality. Dr. Bakshi has over 35 years of experience and offers care and insight to every case. In this blog, we will explain everything about the IVF process in simple, step-by-step detail and much more information.
What is IVF and How Does It Work?
IVF or In Vitro Fertilization is a type of fertility treatment that helps couples who are unable to conceive naturally. The term “in vitro” means “outside the body,” and in this, fertilization happens in a lab instead of inside the woman’s body.
In a natural pregnancy, the sperm meets the egg in the fallopian tube. But in IVF, the doctor first gives the woman some medicines to help her ovaries produce multiple eggs. These eggs are then collected from her body in a small medical procedure. At the same time, the male partner provides a sperm sample. When both egg and sperm are ready then they are brought together in a lab dish for fertilization.
It forms an embryo when the sperm successfully fertilizes the egg. The doctors watch this embryo for a few days to check its growth. The best-quality embryo is then placed gently into the woman’s uterus to start an IVF pregnancy. To understand this clearly, we will explain the IVF process step by step in the upcoming sections of this blog.
Who Should Consider IVF?
IVF can be a helpful option for many couples who are facing problems getting pregnant. It is usually suggested when other treatments don’t work or when there are specific health issues. Here are some situations where IVF might be the right choice:
- The woman’s fallopian tubes are blocked or damaged.
- The woman does not ovulate (release eggs) regularly.
- She has endometriosis and it makes it difficult to get pregnant.
- Her egg count is low or the quality of eggs is not good.
- The man has low sperm count or weak sperm.
- Doctors cannot find a clear reason for infertility (unexplained infertility).
- Other treatments like failed IUI.
- The couple wants to use donor eggs or frozen eggs.
- Same-sex couples or single parents who want to have a baby.
When is the Right Time to Start IVF?
There is no fixed time that suits everyone but the right time to start IVF depends on your personal situation and how long you’ve been trying to have a baby. For many couples, IVF becomes an option when other methods haven’t worked, or when doctors find specific problems that are affecting their fertility.
Here are some signs that it might be the right time to start IVF:
- You’ve been trying to conceive for a long time with no result.
- You’re over 35 and want to avoid further delays.
- You have known fertility issues like blocked tubes or low egg reserve.
- You’ve already tried other treatments like medicines or IUI but didn’t succeed.
- Your doctor has advised IVF based on your reports.
- You want to preserve your fertility or use donor eggs/sperm.
IVF Process Step by Step
IVF is done in several small steps and each one is important to help a couple to have a baby. Here’s a simple explanation of how the IVF Process Step by Step works:
Consultation and Testing
Both the partners have to visit the fertility clinic and share their medical history. They have to go through some basic fertility tests like blood tests, ultrasound, and semen analysis.
Ovarian Stimulation
Next in the IVF process step by step is to give the woman hormone injections for 8–14 days to help her ovaries produce multiple eggs. The growth of these eggs is checked through regular scans and blood tests.
Egg Retrieval (Oocyte Pick-Up)
When the eggs are ready, the doctor collects them from the ovaries by using a small and painless procedure, which is done under light sedation. This usually takes 15–20 minutes.
Sperm Collection
The male partner gives a sperm sample on the same day. If needed, frozen or donor sperm can also be used.
Fertilization in the Lab
In the next step of the IVF process step by step, collected eggs and sperm are combined in a lab dish. The doctors watch closely to see which eggs get fertilized and start forming embryos.
Embryo Development
The fertilized eggs (now embryos) are kept in the lab for a few days, usually 3 to 5 days to monitor their growth. The best-quality embryo is chosen for transfer.
Embryo Transfer
The selected embryo is gently placed into the woman’s uterus by using a thin tube. This is quick and simple in the IVF process step by step and does not need any anesthesia.
The Two-Week Wait and Pregnancy Test
After the embryo transfer, there is a waiting period of about two weeks. Then, a blood test is done to check if pregnancy has started.
IVF Side Effects
IVF is a safe and widely used treatment but it can also have some side effects. Most of these are mild and temporary and not everyone experiences them. So, it’s important to know about them in advance to be more prepared during the IVF process step by step.
Here are some common side effects which include the following:
- Bloating or Mild Stomach Discomfort: This can happen during ovarian stimulation when the ovaries become bigger than usual.
- Mood Swings: Hormonal injections may cause changes in mood and this can make you feel more emotional than usual.
- Headaches or Tiredness: Some women may feel tired or get mild headaches during the hormone treatment procedure.
- Mild Cramping or Spotting: A little cramping or light bleeding is normal after egg retrieval or embryo transfer.
- Breast Tenderness: Due to hormonal changes, breasts might feel sore or heavier.
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): In rare cases, the ovaries overreact to the medicines and fill with fluid and this can cause swelling and pain. Doctors monitor closely to prevent this.
- Stress and Anxiety: The wait and uncertainty can sometimes lead to emotional stress. So, talking to a counselor or support group can be helpful.
Final Words
IVF process step by step is something that every couple should understand clearly before starting their treatment. So, it’s important to know about every stage to reduce stress during this journey. In this blog, we have explained who should consider IVF, when to start, the full step-by-step process, side effects, and more in simple words.
At Risaa IVF, we guide you at every stage with care and clarity. Under the expert care of Dr. Rita Bakshi (Senior IVF Specialist and Gynaecologist), we focus on personalised treatment that brings real results. If you are planning to start your IVF journey or need advice, feel free to call us at 95555 44421/22/23 or email doctor@risaaivf.com for expert support.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How long does the full IVF process take?
The entire IVF cycle usually takes around 4 to 6 weeks from the first consultation to the pregnancy test. However, this may vary depending on your response to the medicines and your specific treatment plan.
Is the egg retrieval procedure painful?
Egg retrieval is done under light sedation, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Some women may feel mild cramping or bloating afterward, which usually goes away in a day or two.
How many injections are needed during the stimulation phase?
You may need to take hormone injections daily for 8 to 14 days. Your doctor will guide you on the exact number based on your body’s response.
How many embryos are transferred in one cycle?
Usually, one or two embryos are transferred, depending on your age, health, and past IVF history. The goal is to give you the best chance of pregnancy while avoiding multiple births.
What should I do after the embryo transfer?
You should rest for the day, avoid heavy work, and follow your doctor’s instructions. Eat healthy, stay calm, and take your medicines on time during the two-week wait.
When will I know if the IVF was successful?
A blood test is done around 12 to 14 days after embryo transfer to confirm pregnancy. This test checks your hCG hormone levels.
What if IVF doesn’t work the first time?
It’s okay to feel upset, but don’t lose hope. Many couples need more than one cycle to succeed. Your doctor will review your case and suggest the next best step.