IVF treatment brings egg and sperm together in the laboratory and places the resulting embryo in the womb. The stages can differ from person to person; the general flow is as follows.
1. Assessment
The couple's history, hormone tests, an ultrasound and, if needed, a sperm analysis are done; the treatment plan is prepared accordingly.
2. Ovarian stimulation
Hormone medication is used to develop more than one egg. Development is followed with ultrasound and tests.
3. Egg collection
At the right time, the eggs are collected in a short procedure, usually under sedation.
4. Fertilisation and embryo development
Egg and sperm are brought together in the laboratory (conventional IVF or microinjection); the embryos are watched for a few days.
5. Embryo transfer
The selected embryo is placed in the womb with a thin catheter. Extra embryos can be frozen if suitable.
6. Pregnancy test
About two weeks after the transfer, a blood test gives the result.
Open communication with the physician and embryology team matters at every stage; the outcome cannot be guaranteed.
This article is general information; diagnosis and treatment decisions are always made after a physician's examination.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Consult a physician for a personal assessment.
