Ekopa Hospital & Karad Fertility Research Center
The Journey of IVF: What to Expect, Step-by-Step
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a life-changing process for many couples and individuals hoping to start or grow a family. As one of the most well-known fertility treatments, IVF combines advanced medical technology with personalized care to help overcome fertility challenges. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the IVF journey step-by-step, giving you an understanding of what to expect at each stage.
What is IVF?
IVF, or in vitro fertilization, is a fertility treatment where an egg is fertilized by sperm outside the body, in a laboratory setting. Once fertilized, the embryo is placed into the uterus, with the goal of establishing a successful pregnancy. IVF can be an effective solution for couples dealing with various fertility issues, including blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count, or unexplained infertility.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Assessment
Your IVF journey begins with an initial consultation. During this session, your fertility specialist will review your medical history, discuss your fertility challenges, and recommend preliminary tests. Blood tests, ultrasounds, and other assessments are typically conducted to help create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Step 2: Ovarian Stimulation
Once the treatment plan is established, ovarian stimulation begins. This step involves taking hormonal medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, rather than the single egg typically released each cycle. Monitoring appointments are scheduled every few days to measure hormone levels and track follicle development via ultrasound.
Tips for This Stage:
- Attend all monitoring appointments to ensure the correct medication dosage.
- Stay hydrated and try to maintain a balanced diet to support your body during stimulation.
Step 3: Egg Retrieval
When the follicles have matured, it’s time for egg retrieval. This is a minor surgical procedure performed under sedation, where a thin needle is used to extract eggs from the ovaries. The procedure typically takes about 20–30 minutes, and you can expect to rest for the remainder of the day.
What to Expect:
- Mild cramping or bloating afterward, which typically resolves within a day or two.
- Instructions from your specialist on rest and hydration for optimal recovery.
