Definition of IVF
In vitro fertilization (IVF), also known as in vitro fertilization (IVF), refers to the process of combining eggs and sperm into embryos in vitro through assisted reproductive technology, and then transplanting the embryos into the mother's uterus to finally achieve pregnancy and delivery. The successful application of IVF technology has brought new fertility hope to many infertile couples.
Steps of IVF
IVF is a complex process, mainly including the following steps:
Step 1: hormone therapy
Hormone therapy is the first step in IVF. Female patients need to inject a series of hormones to promote ovarian development and produce multiple mature eggs. The doctor will adjust the dose and use time of hormone according to the patient's condition.
Hormone treatment usually lasts for several weeks, during which the doctor will monitor the blood hormone level and ultrasound examination of the ovary to determine the development of the eggs.
Step 2: Egg collection
When the egg in the ovary is mature, the doctor will collect the egg. This process is usually performed in the operating room, using mild sedation or general anesthesia. The doctor extracts the mature eggs by puncturing the ovary.
Egg collection is a minimally invasive operation, which usually takes only a few minutes. After the operation, the patient needs to rest for a while, and the doctor will evaluate and culture the collected eggs.
Step 3: Sperm treatment
In the process of step 1 and step 2, male patients need to provide semen samples. Sperm will go through a series of processing and screening to obtain high-quality sperm. The treated sperm will remain in a suitable environment and wait to combine with the egg.
Step 4: Embryo transfer
At the embryo transfer stage, doctors will select the best quality embryos, and determine the number of embryos transferred according to the patient's age, health status and doctors' suggestions. Embryo transfer can take place in a few days or weeks.
Embryo transfer is a simple process, similar to uterine cavity examination. The doctor inserts the embryo into the uterus through a thin tube so that the embryo can be implanted in the uterus. After a successful pregnancy, the patient needs to follow the doctor's advice for pregnancy management.
Summary of IVF
Test tube baby is a kind of assisted reproductive technology, which can help infertile couples achieve their reproductive aspirations through a series of steps. The steps of IVF mainly include hormone therapy, egg collection, sperm treatment and embryo transfer. Each step requires the precise operation of doctors and the cooperation of patients.
Although IVF technology has been widely used and many successful cases have been achieved, there are still some risks and uncertainties. Therefore, before IVF, couples are advised to consult and evaluate with doctors in detail to understand the applicability and risks of technology so as to make wise decisions.
In short, IVF technology has brought new fertility hope to infertile couples. Through precise operation and scientific management, IVF has become an important technology in the field of modern medicine and has realized the dream of healthy babies for many couples.
