In-Vitro Fertilization - The Process & Why is it Needed?

With increasing stress in today’s world, many people develop a hormonal imbalance, leading to infertility. In such cases, doctors may recommend a couple to get an IVF treatment. IVF, also known as in-vitro fertilization, can help a couple get pregnant.

In this article, we will learn more about what is IVF, who is it suitable for, the IVF treatment and its cost in India.

What is IVF?

IVF is an artificial procedure to help a woman get pregnant. It is a process where the egg and sperm are artificially fused to produce a zygote. Once the zygote is ready to be transplanted, it is placed inside the woman. The woman is generally kept on IVF medication, so her body is ready to welcome the pregnancy. The sperm or egg can be the couple’s own or a donor’s. Complete anonymity is maintained in the case of IVF with donor eggs or sperm.

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When Should One Get IVF?

IVF is recommended in the following cases:

1. Underlying medical problems

When there is blockage or injury to the fallopian tube, it is challenging for an egg to become fertilized or for an embryo to move to the uterus. In such a case, IVF is recommended.

2. Uterine tumors

Fibroids are benign tumors in the uterus. These are pretty common in women in their 30s and 40s. Fibroids may prevent the fertilized egg from implanting properly.

3. Ovarian dysfunction

Ovarian dysfunction or insufficiency is when a woman's ovaries are unable to function normally. When ovulation is sporadic or non-existent, fewer eggs are accessible for fertilization.

4. Unexplained infertility

Unexplained infertility is the absence of a cause of infertility despite testing for multiple reasons.

5. Chronic and systemic illnesses such as cancer

IVF treatment may be an option if you are about to begin cancer treatment that might affect your fertility. Women can have their ovaries harvested for eggs, which can then be frozen unfertilized for later use. Alternatively, the eggs might be fertilized and frozen, also known as embryo freezing.

6. Reduced sperm count or quality

Sperm may have trouble fertilizing an egg if they have low concentration, limited movement (poor mobility), or abnormalities in size and form. A consultation with an infertility expert may be required if abnormalities in the semen are discovered.

7. Endometriosis

This develops when tissue resembling the uterine lining implants and spreads outside the uterus, frequently impairing the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes.

8. Genetic condition

You can be eligible for IVF if you or your spouse are at risk of passing on a genetic condition to your child. Although not all genetic issues may be detected, the eggs are checked for specific genetic problems after being extracted and fertilized. Embryos with no known issues can be placed into the uterus.

9. Before sterilization

The fallopian tubes are cut or blocked during a procedure known as tubal ligation to prevent pregnancy permanently. IVF may be a better option than tubal ligation reversal surgery if you want to become pregnant after having your tubes tied.

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What is IVF Treatment?

IVF is a multi-step, challenging process. It takes four-six weeks on average. The IVF process encompasses the period before egg retrieval until a pregnancy test is confirmed. People choose IVF for various reasons, such as infertility problems or when one couple has a pre-existing medical condition. Some people consider IVF if previous fertility treatments haven't worked for them or if they're over 35. IVF is also a viable procedure for same-sex couples.

IVF Treatment Cost in India

IVF cost in India ranges between Rs 1 and 3 lakh. This includes the registration fee, hormones, drugs, consultation charges, the procedure, and follow-up.

Conclusion

In-vitro fertilization means the artificial insemination of male sperm and female egg outside the female’s body. The procedure is adopted by couples who haven’t been able to have children naturally, same-sex couples, or single parents. If you wish to know more about IVF treatment, visit your doctor today.

References

1. Choe J, Shanks AL. (2022). In Vitro Fertilization. NCBI