What is In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)?

• In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technology (ART) that involves the fertilization of an egg with sperm outside the body, in a laboratory setting. The term “in vitro” refers to the process occurring in a controlled environment, typically in a glass dish or test tube. IVF is used to overcome various fertility challenges and help individuals or couples conceive a child.
• The IVF process typically begins by closely monitoring and stimulating the woman’s ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs. This is achieved through the administration of fertility medications. Regular ultrasounds and hormone level checks are conducted to track the progress of follicle development.
• Once the eggs have matured, they are retrieved from the woman’s ovaries using a minor surgical procedure called follicular aspiration. During this procedure, a thin needle is guided through the vaginal wall into the ovaries to collect the eggs.
• Simultaneously, a semen sample is collected from the male partner or a donor. The sample is prepared in the laboratory to isolate healthy and motile sperm.
• In the laboratory, the retrieved eggs and prepared sperm are combined in a culture dish. This allows fertilization to occur naturally or may involve injecting a single sperm into an egg through a technique called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
• After fertilization, the resulting embryos are cultured and monitored for a period of 2-6 days. During this time, the embryos undergo cell division and development. The embryologist assesses the quality and viability of the embryos to select the most suitable ones for transfer.
• The final step of IVF involves transferring the selected embryos into the woman’s uterus. This procedure is performed using a thin catheter, which is gently inserted through the cervix and into the uterus. The goal is for the transferred embryos to implant and establish a successful pregnancy.
• In some cases, excess embryos of good quality may be cryopreserved (frozen) for future use in subsequent IVF cycles. This allows for additional attempts at pregnancy without the need for ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval.
• IVF has helped millions of couples and individuals worldwide to achieve pregnancy and overcome fertility issues such as blocked fallopian tubes, male factor infertility, advanced maternal age, or unexplained infertility. It offers a viable option for those who have not been successful with other fertility treatments.
• It is important to note that IVF is a complex and multi-step procedure that requires specialized medical expertise, including fertility specialists, reproductive endocrinologists, embryologists, and other healthcare professionals. The success rates of IVF can vary depending on various factors such as the age of the woman, the quality of embryos, and underlying fertility issues. Consulting with a fertility specialist is essential to determine if IVF is a suitable option and to discuss the potential risks, benefits, and alternatives.

Why IVF is done?

IVF is performed for various reasons related to infertility and certain health conditions. Here are some common reasons why IVF may be done:

1. Infertility: IVF is a widely used treatment for couples who are unable to conceive naturally. It can be considered when other fertility treatments have not been successful or when there are specific factors contributing to infertility.
2. Advanced maternal age: IVF may be offered as a primary treatment for women over the age of 40, as fertility declines with age, and the chances of conceiving naturally decrease.
3. Fallopian tube damage or blockage: IVF can bypass issues related to damaged or blocked fallopian tubes. By directly fertilizing the egg in the laboratory and transferring the resulting embryo to the uterus, the need for a functional fallopian tube is eliminated.
4. Ovulation disorders: Women with infrequent or absent ovulation may have fewer eggs available for fertilization. IVF can help overcome this issue by stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, increasing the chances of successful fertilization.
5. Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition in which uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, affecting the function of the reproductive organs. IVF can be an effective option for women with endometriosis who may face challenges with natural conception.
6. Uterine fibroids: Fibroids are benign tumors in the uterine wall that can interfere with implantation. IVF can be a suitable choice for women with uterine fibroids, as it bypasses the need for the fertilized egg to implant in the uterus directly. Consulting an interventional radiologist can help in determining the right procedures to treat the fibroids.
7. Previous tubal sterilization or removal: If a woman has undergone tubal ligation (permanent contraception) and desires to conceive, IVF can be an alternative to tubal ligation reversal. It allows for the retrieval of eggs and fertilization in the laboratory, bypassing the blocked or cut fallopian tubes.
8. Impaired sperm production or function: IVF can help overcome male factor infertility when there are issues with sperm production, movement, or morphology. By directly injecting sperm into the egg through ICSI, the chances of successful fertilization can be increased.
9. Genetic disorders: Couples at risk of passing on genetic disorders to their children may opt for pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) through IVF. Embryos created through IVF can be screened for specific genetic conditions, and only those free of the identified problems are selected for transfer to the uterus.
10. Fertility preservation: IVF offers an option for individuals who are about to undergo cancer treatment or other medical procedures that could potentially harm their fertility. Eggs can be harvested and frozen for future use, or embryos can be created and frozen for later transfer.

Additionally, for individuals who do not have a functional uterus or face significant health risks during pregnancy, IVF with a gestational carrier (a surrogate) can be considered. This involves using another person’s uterus to carry the pregnancy while the intended parents provide the eggs and sperm for fertilization.

It’s important to note that the decision to undergo IVF should be made in consultation with a fertility specialist or reproductive endocrinologist, taking into account individual circumstances, medical history, and the chances of success.

Who Should Consider In Vitro Fertilization?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a treatment option that can be considered by individuals or couples facing certain fertility challenges. The following are examples of people who might choose IVF:

1. Infertility due to fallopian tube issues or severe male factor infertility: IVF can be beneficial for individuals who have absent or blocked fallopian tubes or for couples with male partners who have low sperm counts, poor sperm motility, or require surgical sperm extraction.
2. Infertility with other causes: IVF may be recommended when infertility is caused by conditions such as endometriosis, ovulation disorders, or unexplained infertility, especially if other fertility treatments have not been successful.
3. Advanced maternal age: Individuals who are 40 years or older and wish to maximize their chances of pregnancy may opt for IVF since fertility declines with age.
4. Genetic diseases: Couples with an inherited genetic disease they want to avoid passing on to their child may choose IVF combined with preimplantation genetic testing. This involves screening embryos (or eggs) for the disease and transferring only those without the genetic condition to the uterus.
5. Ovarian insufficiency: Individuals with premature ovarian insufficiency, where the ovaries stop producing eggs earlier than normal, may consider using donor eggs from another person for IVF.
6. Donor sperm or embryo: Individuals or couples who require donor sperm or a donor embryo, such as single females or female couples, can pursue IVF as a way to achieve pregnancy.
7. Gestational carrier or surrogate: People with health conditions that make it impossible or unsafe to get pregnant, single males, or male couples may opt for IVF using a gestational carrier to carry the pregnancy for them.

While IVF has a high success rate in achieving pregnancy and allows for embryo freezing for future use, it is essential to be aware of its disadvantages. These include the high costs involved, potential side effects of fertility medications and invasive procedures, and an increased risk of multiple gestations if multiple embryos are transferred. The risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) can also be increased. IVF may be associated with a higher risk of certain pregnancy complications such as hypertensive disorders and preterm birth, although the risk is generally lower compared to other fertility treatments.

Before initiating IVF, it is crucial to discuss the risks, benefits, and alternatives with a healthcare provider. In most cases, less expensive and less invasive infertility treatments are attempted before considering IVF.

Steps involved in In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

IVF involves several steps – ovarian stimulation/induction, egg retrieval, sperm retrieval, fertilization and embryo transfer. One cycle of IVF can take about two to three weeks.

Ovulation induction

Ovulation induction is a crucial step in the IVF process that involves stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs instead of the usual single egg that develops during a natural menstrual cycle. The goal is to increase the number of available eggs for fertilization, as not all eggs will successfully fertilize or develop after fertilization. This is achieved through the use of synthetic hormones and medications. Here’s an overview of the medications and procedures involved in ovulation induction:

1. Ovarian Stimulation: At the beginning of the IVF cycle, the woman will receive synthetic hormones, typically in the form of injections. These hormones can include follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), or a combination of both. These medications stimulate the ovaries to develop multiple follicles, each containing an egg. Monitoring through ultrasounds and blood tests helps the doctor determine the response to the medication and the optimal time for egg retrieval.
2. Oocyte Maturation: Once the follicles have reached an appropriate size and development, typically after 9-14 days of ovarian stimulation, a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is administered. HCG triggers the final maturation of the eggs within the follicles, preparing them for retrieval.
3. Uterine Lining Preparation: To ensure the uterus is receptive to implantation, progesterone supplements may be prescribed. These supplements are often started on the day of egg retrieval or at the time of embryo transfer. Progesterone helps prepare the lining of the uterus to support embryo implantation and early pregnancy.

Throughout the ovarian stimulation process, the woman will undergo regular monitoring, which may involve vaginal ultrasounds to assess the development of the follicles and blood tests to measure hormone levels. Estrogen levels increase as the follicles develop, while progesterone levels remain low until after ovulation.

The duration of ovarian stimulation varies but typically lasts 1-2 weeks. The timing of egg retrieval is critical to ensure the eggs are mature and ready for fertilization. Once the eggs are deemed ready, a minor surgical procedure called egg retrieval is performed to collect the mature eggs from the ovaries.

Ovulation induction plays a vital role in IVF by optimizing the number of eggs available for fertilization, increasing the chances of successful embryo development and implantation. The specific medication protocol and dosage will be tailored to each individual’s unique circumstances and response to the treatment, with the aim of achieving the best possible outcome during the IVF process.

Egg retrieval

Egg retrieval is a crucial step in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process. It involves the collection of mature eggs from the woman’s ovaries for fertilization with sperm in a laboratory. Here’s an overview of the egg retrieval procedure:

1. Timing: Egg retrieval is typically scheduled 34-36 hours after the final injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). This timing allows the eggs to reach maturity just before ovulation occurs.
2. Sedation and Pain Management: During the egg retrieval procedure, the woman is usually given sedation and pain medication to ensure her comfort. This helps minimize any discomfort or pain experienced during the procedure.
3. Transvaginal Ultrasound Aspiration: The most common method for egg retrieval is transvaginal ultrasound aspiration. A transvaginal ultrasound probe is inserted into the vagina to visualize the ovaries and identify the mature follicles containing the eggs.
4. Needle Aspiration: A thin needle is then inserted through the vaginal wall and guided into the follicles using the ultrasound images. The needle is attached to a suction device that gently aspirates the fluid and the eggs from the follicles.
5. Collection of Eggs: The eggs are carefully collected from the follicles through the needle aspiration process. Multiple eggs can typically be retrieved within a span of about 20 minutes.
6. Handling and Incubation: Once retrieved, the eggs are placed in a nutritive liquid called a culture medium. The culture medium provides the necessary environment for the eggs to remain healthy and viable. The eggs are then incubated in a laboratory.
7. Fertilization: If the eggs appear healthy and mature, they are mixed with sperm in the laboratory in an attempt to achieve fertilization. The fertilization can occur through traditional IVF, where the eggs and sperm are placed in a culture dish together, or through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), where a single sperm is directly injected into each mature egg.

It’s important to note that not all retrieved eggs may successfully fertilize. Some eggs may not be mature enough, while others may not fertilize even if they appear mature. The embryologist carefully monitors the fertilization process to determine which eggs have successfully fertilized and progressed to the next stages of embryo development.

Egg retrieval is a crucial and delicate procedure that requires expertise and precision. The collected eggs hold the potential for successful fertilization and the creation of embryos, which will later be transferred to the woman’s uterus for potential pregnancy.

Sperm retrieval

Sperm retrieval is a process that involves obtaining sperm for use in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure. Here’s an overview of the sperm retrieval methods:

1. Semen Sample: If the woman is using her partner’s sperm, he will be asked to provide a semen sample on the morning of the egg retrieval. The semen sample is collected at the doctor’s clinic through masturbation into a sterile cup. The semen is then analyzed in the laboratory to assess its quality and quantity.
2. Testicular Aspiration: In some cases, when there are difficulties in obtaining sperm from the semen sample or if the male partner has a reproductive issue, testicular aspiration may be necessary. Testicular aspiration involves using a needle to directly extract sperm from the testicles. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia or sedation.
3. Donor Sperm: In situations where the male partner has no sperm or if there are concerns about the quality of the sperm, donor sperm can be used. Donor sperm is obtained from a sperm bank or a known donor who has undergone thorough screening and testing to ensure its safety and quality.
4. Semen Processing: Once the semen sample is collected or the sperm is retrieved through testicular aspiration, it undergoes a semen processing procedure in the laboratory. Semen processing involves separating the sperm from the semen fluid. This is typically done using techniques such as centrifugation or density gradient separation. These methods help isolate the motile and healthy sperm, removing any debris or non-motile sperm.

The goal of sperm retrieval is to obtain a sufficient number of motile and healthy sperm for fertilization during the IVF process. The retrieved sperm will be used to fertilize the retrieved eggs either through traditional IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In ICSI, a single sperm is injected directly into each mature egg to enhance the chances of fertilization.

It’s important to note that the specific method of sperm retrieval depends on the individual circumstances and the fertility clinic’s recommendations. The healthcare team will guide and determine the most suitable approach to retrieve sperm and optimize the chances of successful fertilization and subsequent embryo development.

Fertilization

Fertilization is a crucial step in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process, where the fusion of sperm and eggs takes place. There are two common methods used to achieve fertilization:

1. Conventional Insemination: In conventional insemination, a process commonly used when the semen quality is satisfactory, healthy sperm and mature eggs are combined and incubated together in a culture medium. The sperm are allowed to swim freely and naturally fertilize the eggs. This method mimics the natural process of fertilization that occurs in the fallopian tubes.
2. Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): In cases where the quality or quantity of sperm is a concern, or if previous attempts at conventional insemination have been unsuccessful, intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be performed. During ICSI, a highly skilled embryologist uses a micromanipulation technique to inject a single healthy sperm directly into the cytoplasm of each mature egg using a specialized needle. This precise and controlled method increases the chances of successful fertilization.

The selection of which fertilization method to use is based on several factors, including the quality of the sperm, the number of mature eggs available, and the previous success rates. The decision is made in consultation with the fertility specialist and embryology team.

After fertilization, the eggs are monitored for signs of successful fertilization. The presence of two pronuclei (one from the sperm and one from the egg) indicates that fertilization has occurred. These fertilized eggs, now called zygotes, continue to undergo cell division and development in the laboratory for a few days.

Following fertilization, the embryologist will assess the quality and development of the resulting embryos. The quality of the embryos plays a crucial role in the success of IVF. The most viable embryos are selected for transfer to the woman’s uterus. Any excess healthy embryos can be cryopreserved (frozen) for future use.

By using either conventional insemination or ICSI, fertility specialists can increase the chances of successful fertilization and subsequent embryo development. The specific method chosen will depend on individual factors, and the expertise of the fertility clinic’s embryology team will guide the decision-making process to optimize the chances of a successful pregnancy.

Embryo transfer

Embryo transfer is a crucial step in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process, where the selected embryos are carefully transferred into the woman’s uterus. Here’s an overview of the embryo transfer procedure:

1. Timing: Embryo transfer usually takes place 2-5 days after egg retrieval. The exact timing depends on various factors, including the quality and development of the embryos and the specific protocol followed by the fertility clinic.
2. Preparation: Prior to the procedure, the woman may be given a mild sedative to help her relax. It’s important for her to have a full bladder during the transfer, as a full bladder can help with visualization during the procedure.
3. Insertion of the catheter: The doctor, usually guided by ultrasound, will insert a long, thin, flexible tube called a catheter through the woman’s vagina, past the cervix, and into the uterus. The catheter is carefully maneuvered to the optimal position within the uterine cavity.
4. Loading the embryos: The doctor will load the selected embryos into a syringe, which is attached to the end of the catheter. The embryos are suspended in a small amount of fluid within the syringe.
5. Transfer of the embryos: Using the syringe, the doctor gently pushes the embryo(s) through the catheter and into the uterus. This process is usually painless and typically takes just a few minutes to complete.
6. Post-transfer care: After the embryos are transferred, the woman is usually advised to rest for a short period of time before being discharged from the clinic. Specific post-transfer instructions may vary, but they often include recommendations such as avoiding strenuous activities and refraining from sexual intercourse for a certain period of time.
7. Implantation: Following the embryo transfer, successful implantation occurs when an embryo attaches to the lining of the uterus. This typically occurs about 6-10 days after the egg retrieval. Implantation is a critical step for achieving a successful pregnancy.

It’s important to note that not all embryos will implant and result in a pregnancy. The success of the embryo transfer depends on various factors, including the quality of the embryos, the receptivity of the uterine lining, and other individual factors.

After the embryo transfer, the woman may undergo a waiting period until a pregnancy test can determine whether the IVF cycle was successful. The fertility clinic will provide guidance on when to schedule a follow-up appointment or when to take a pregnancy test.

Overall, the embryo transfer procedure is a carefully orchestrated step in the IVF process, aimed at optimizing the chances of successful implantation and the development of a healthy pregnancy.

Result of IVF

The result of an IVF cycle can be determined approximately 12 days to 2 weeks after the egg retrieval procedure. During this period, the woman will undergo a blood test to detect the presence of pregnancy.

If the blood test confirms a positive pregnancy, it indicates that implantation has occurred, and the woman will be referred to a pregnancy specialist or an obstetrician for ongoing prenatal care. The pregnancy specialist will monitor the progress of the pregnancy, provide necessary guidance, and ensure the well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus.

On the other hand, if the blood test indicates a negative result, meaning that pregnancy did not occur, the woman will discontinue taking progesterone supplements. The doctor will then discuss the results with her and may suggest steps she can take to improve her chances of getting pregnant through another cycle of IVF. These recommendations could include adjustments to the treatment protocol, lifestyle modifications, or additional fertility investigations to identify any potential factors contributing to the unsuccessful outcome.

Each IVF cycle is unique, and the success rates can vary depending on various factors such as the woman’s age, the quality of the embryos, the uterine receptivity, and any underlying fertility issues. It’s essential to discuss the results with the fertility specialist who can provide personalized guidance and support based on the specific circumstances.

It’s important to note that IVF success is not guaranteed, and multiple cycles may be required to achieve a successful pregnancy. The decision to pursue further IVF cycles will depend on various factors, including the couple’s preferences, physical and emotional well-being, and the advice of the medical team.

IVF can be a challenging and emotionally demanding journey for couples, and it’s crucial to have open communication with the healthcare providers to understand the results, discuss any concerns, and make informed decisions regarding future treatment options. The medical team will provide support and guidance throughout the process to help individuals and couples navigate their fertility journey.

Risks of IVF

IVF, like any medical procedure, carries certain risks. Here are some of the risks associated with IVF:

1. Multiple Births: One of the risks of IVF is the increased chance of multiple births if more than one embryo is transferred to the uterus. Multiple pregnancies pose additional health risks for both the mother and the babies, including premature delivery and low birth weight.
2. Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): OHSS can occur as a result of using fertility drugs, such as human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), to stimulate ovulation. It causes the ovaries to become swollen and painful. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to fluid accumulation in the abdomen and chest, blood clots, and kidney problems.
3. Miscarriage: The rate of miscarriage for women who conceive through IVF with fresh embryos is similar to that of women who conceive naturally. However, the risk of miscarriage tends to increase with maternal age.
4. Egg Retrieval Procedure Complications: The procedure for retrieving eggs using an aspirating needle carries some risks. These can include bleeding, infection, or damage to the bowel, bladder, or blood vessels. There are also risks associated with the use of sedation or anesthesia during the procedure.
5. Ectopic Pregnancy: IVF increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tube. Ectopic pregnancies cannot proceed normally and require medical intervention. They can be dangerous if not detected early.
6. Birth Defects: Advanced maternal age is a risk factor for birth defects, and this risk applies to IVF pregnancies as well. Certain birth defects, such as septal heart defects, cleft lips (with or without cleft palate), esophageal atresia, and anorectal atresia, may be slightly more common in IVF-conceived pregnancies. Additionally, there is a small increased risk of imprinting disorders, including Prader-Willi syndrome and Angelman syndrome.
7. Transmission of Infectious Diseases: If donor sperm is used and the donor’s infectious disease screening is insufficient or incomplete, there is a small risk of transmitting diseases such as hepatitis B or HIV.

It’s important to note that while these risks exist, they are generally rare. Fertility clinics take measures to minimize these risks and ensure the safety of the patients undergoing IVF. Before undergoing the procedure, individuals should discuss these risks with their healthcare provider and address any concerns they may have.

Successful Rate of IVF

The success rate of IVF can vary depending on various factors. These factors include the individual’s reproductive history, maternal age, the underlying cause of infertility, and lifestyle factors. It’s important to note that the success rate is often measured in terms of live birth rates rather than simply pregnancy rates. Live birth rates provide a more accurate measure of the ultimate goal of a successful IVF cycle.

In the United States, the approximate live birth rates for each IVF cycle started are as follows:

• For women under the age of 35, the live birth rate is around 41-43%. This age group generally has higher success rates due to better egg quality and overall fertility.
• For women between the ages of 35 and 37, the live birth rate ranges from 33-36%. As women get closer to their late 30s, fertility begins to decline, and the success rates may be slightly lower compared to younger age groups.
• For women between the ages of 38 and 40, the live birth rate is approximately 23-27%. Fertility continues to decline with age, and women in this age range may face additional challenges in achieving successful pregnancies through IVF.
• For women over the age of 40, the live birth rate is around 13-18%. Advanced maternal age is associated with decreased ovarian reserve and lower egg quality, which can impact the success rates of IVF.

It’s important to remember that these rates are approximate and can vary depending on individual circumstances. Other factors such as the cause of infertility, previous pregnancy history, and specific treatment protocols can also influence the success rates of IVF. It is recommended to consult with a fertility specialist who can provide personalized information and guidance based on individual factors and medical history.

Side Effects of IVF

After undergoing IVF, it is common for women to experience some side effects. Most women can resume normal activities the day after the procedure, but it is important to be aware of potential side effects that may arise. These side effects can include:

1. Passing a small amount of fluid: Some women may notice a small amount of clear or blood-tinged fluid discharge after the procedure.
2. Mild cramping: Mild abdominal cramping or discomfort can occur after IVF.
3. Mild bloating: Some women may experience bloating or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen.
4. Constipation: Changes in hormone levels and the use of fertility medications can lead to temporary constipation.
5. Breast tenderness: Hormonal changes during IVF can cause breast tenderness or sensitivity.

While these side effects are generally mild and temporary, there are certain symptoms that require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, it is important to contact your doctor immediately:

• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Pelvic pain that is severe or worsening
• Blood in the urine
• Fever over 100.5 °F (38 °C)

It’s also important to note that fertility medications used during IVF can have their own set of side effects. These may include:

• Headaches
• Mood swings
• Abdominal pain
• Hot flashes
• Abdominal bloating

Additionally, in rare cases, a condition called Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) can occur. OHSS is characterized by the swelling and enlargement of the ovaries, which can lead to abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and rapid weight gain. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience severe symptoms or suspect OHSS.

It’s essential to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider, as they can provide guidance and support throughout the IVF process.

Applications of IVF

In vitro fertilization (IVF) has various applications and can be used in different scenarios to assist individuals and couples in achieving pregnancy. Here are some common applications of IVF:

1. Male Factor Infertility: IVF can be used when male partners have low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or other fertility issues. Through IVF, sperm can be directly injected into mature eggs during a procedure called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), bypassing natural fertilization barriers.
2. Tubal Factor Infertility: IVF is an effective option for individuals with blocked or damaged fallopian tubes that prevent the fertilization of eggs by sperm naturally. By retrieving eggs from the ovaries and fertilizing them in the laboratory, IVF bypasses the fallopian tubes.
3. Ovulation Disorders: Women with irregular or absent ovulation, such as those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), may benefit from IVF. Ovarian stimulation medications are used to induce controlled ovulation, and then the eggs are retrieved and fertilized in the laboratory.
4. Endometriosis: IVF can be recommended for individuals with endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. By circumventing the potential effects of endometriosis on fertility, IVF offers a chance of pregnancy.
5. Unexplained Infertility: When the cause of infertility cannot be determined through routine testing, IVF can be an option. It provides an opportunity to overcome any undetected barriers to conception and increase the chances of successful pregnancy.
6. Advanced Maternal Age: As women age, their fertility declines. IVF allows women who are in their late 30s or older to utilize assisted reproductive technology to optimize their chances of conceiving.
7. Genetic Screening: IVF combined with preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) enables the screening of embryos for genetic disorders before implantation. This allows individuals or couples with known genetic conditions to select embryos free from those disorders.
8. Same-Sex Couples and Single Individuals: IVF provides an avenue for same-sex couples, single females, and single males to have a biological child. Donor sperm, donor eggs, or both can be used in conjunction with IVF to facilitate pregnancy.
9. Preservation of Fertility: IVF can be used for fertility preservation in individuals facing medical treatments that may impact their future fertility, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Eggs or embryos can be frozen and stored for later use.

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