Understanding IVF: The Basics of In Vitro Fertilization

If you find yourself on the challenging path to parenthood and are considering In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), know that you are not alone. Many couples and individuals around the world embark on this journey, myself included. You can read the full story about our infertility here. IVF can be difficult physically, emotionally, and financially. It’s essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the IVF process to make informed decisions and navigate the emotional rollercoaster that often accompanies fertility treatments.

Understanding IVF Basics

IVF is a fertility treatment that involves combining an egg and sperm outside the body in a laboratory. Once fertilization occurs, the resulting embryo is then transferred to the uterus, often months later. The process requires several medications that induce ovarian stimulation, to encourage the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.

During this phase, regular monitoring through blood tests and ultrasounds is crucial to track the development of follicles. When the eggs are ready for retrieval, a minor surgical procedure is performed to collect them, known as an egg retrieval. The egg retrieval is performed with light sedation and is considered a minor surgery. Each woman differs in the amount of eggs they are able to successfully retrieve. I have known women who have successfully retrieved upwards of 20 eggs. In my case, we were only able to successfully retrieve 6 viable eggs.

Fertilization and Embryo Development

Once the eggs are retrieved, they are combined with sperm in the laboratory. For me, I was in the surgical suite getting the egg retrieval while my husband was in another area of the clinic getting his sperm specimen. Typical that the women always get the more difficult task right? The egg and sperm are then combined through conventional insemination or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), where a single sperm is directly injected into an egg. Fertilization is monitored, and the embryos are cultured for several days. You will likely be getting regular phone updates from your embryologists at this point.

It is possible for you to start with a plethora of eggs, but have very few viable embryos. You may start with several embryos in the beginning that are nonviable after a few days. So while it is important to be hopeful, set realistic expectations about this step of the process.

The next critical step is embryo selection. Not all embryos may develop optimally, and selecting the healthiest ones increases the chances of a successful pregnancy. Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) may be recommended to assess genetic abnormalities in the embryos.

Embryo Transfer

After the embryos have been cultured, the healthiest one or more are selected for transfer. Your fertility specialist will discuss with you recommendations for implanting one embryo versus multiples. It is also possible to implant fresh or frozen embryos. The number of embryos transferred depends on various factors, including age, health, and the quality of the embryos. The transfer is a relatively quick and painless procedure that involves placing the embryo(s) into the uterus. This procedure does not require sedation, you will be conscious for the entire procedure, and the pain truly is minimal. Some doctors recommend taking it easy for this day, but absolute bed rest is not necessary.

The Two-Week Wait

Following the embryo transfer, the infamous “two-week wait” begins. This is the period between embryo transfer and the scheduled pregnancy test. It’s a time of anticipation, hope, and anxiety as you await the results that will determine whether the IVF cycle was successful. During this time, it is not recommended to test for pregnancy, because you will often have a false negative result. I know it will kill you to not know if you are pregnant, but follow the suggestion to not test early!

Also during the two-week wait, most providers will recommend you avoid strenuous exercise. Walking and stretching are okay, but excessive exercise may result in poor outcomes.

Coping with Emotional Challenges

The emotional aspect of IVF cannot be overstated. The process can be physically and mentally draining. Coping mechanisms, such as seeking support from friends, family, or support groups, can be invaluable. Understanding that emotional ups and downs are a normal part of the process can help you navigate the challenges with resilience.

The emotions you may experience while going through the IVF process may also be heightened with the hormone injections you are taking. So be patient with yourself.

Celebrating Success or Navigating Setbacks

The results of the pregnancy test will bring either joy and relief or disappointment and sadness. Success is a cause for celebration, but setbacks should not be viewed as failure. Each IVF cycle provides valuable information that can guide future decisions and improve the chances of success. Many women go through the IVF process several times before achieving pregnancy, so don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t work out on your first try.

Moving Forward

Whether your IVF journey results in pregnancy or not, it’s essential to reflect on the experience and consider your options. Some individuals may need multiple cycles before achieving success, while others may explore alternative paths to parenthood. There are obviously many factors to consider, including cost, age, and health.

We have talked only briefly about the basics of IVF, this does not include any of the medications, injections, suppositories, etc. This post is designed to cover the basics, but for more in-depth questions and details about timing, medications, and cost consult with your fertility specialists.

In conclusion, the IVF process is a complex but hopeful journey toward building the family you desire. By understanding each step, seeking emotional support, and maintaining a positive mindset, you can navigate the challenges with resilience and hope. Remember, you are not alone on this journey, and the path to parenthood is unique for everyone.