Introduction to IVF process
In vitro fertilization embryo transfer (IVF-ET) is a method to help infertile couples achieve their reproductive aspirations through artificial assisted reproduction technology. The treatment process of IVF will be described in detail below.
Preliminary diagnosis and inspection
The first step is to go to a professional reproductive medical center or maternity hospital for preliminary diagnosis and examination. The doctor will conduct a comprehensive physical examination and reproductive system examination for the couple. Women need to evaluate ovarian function, oviduct patency and endometrial suitability for embryo transfer through ultrasound, progesterone examination, hysterography, etc.
Men need semen analysis to assess the quantity and quality of sperm. In addition, testicular spermatogenic tissue freezing, sperm freezing and other operations can also be carried out to prepare for subsequent treatment.
Ovulation induction and egg collection
After confirming that the female ovary function is normal, the doctor will start ovulation induction treatment. By using ovulation promoting drugs to stimulate the ovary to release multiple eggs, thereby increasing the chance of fertilization.
When the follicle reaches the appropriate size, the doctor will conduct an egg collection operation. In a painless state, doctors use ultrasound guided fine needles to collect eggs through vaginal puncture. This process is usually completed within half an hour, and can be carried out in the operating room or sterile operating room.
Fertilization and embryo culture
After the eggs are collected, doctors will fertilize the eggs and sperm in vitro. This can be traditional in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). The doctor will choose the appropriate method according to the situation.
The fertilized embryos will be cultured in the laboratory. Generally, embryos will be cultured in a temperature controlled environment in a petri dish for 2-5 days to evaluate their development and quality. The doctor will select the most suitable embryo for transplantation.
Embryo transfer and blastocyst freezing
Embryo transfer is the last step in IVF treatment. The doctor will place the selected embryo into the endometrium through the vagina and carry out embryo transfer. This process is usually painless and does not require hospitalization.
If additional embryos are available, doctors can freeze them for future use. Frozen embryos can be stored for many years and thawed and transferred when the couple is ready.
Cost analysis of IVF
The cost of IVF treatment varies by region, hospital and individual. The following is a rough cost analysis for reference only.
Cost of preliminary diagnosis and examination
Preliminary diagnosis and examination usually include a series of examination items, such as ultrasonic examination, blood examination, semen analysis, etc. The cost of these inspections is generally between 500 and 2000 yuan.
Expenses for ovulation promotion and egg collection
Ovulation induction treatment requires ovulation induction drugs, which usually cost about 5000 to 10000 yuan. The cost of egg collection is generally between 5000 and 10000 yuan.
Fertilization and embryo culture expenses
The cost of IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection is about 5000 to 10000 yuan. The cost of embryo culture is usually 3000 to 5000 yuan.
Expense of embryo transfer and blastocyst freezing
The cost of embryo transfer is generally between 2000 and 5000 yuan. If you need to freeze the embryos, you may need to pay an additional 3000 to 5000 yuan.
Summary
The process of IVF treatment includes preliminary diagnosis and examination, ovulation induction and egg collection, fertilization and embryo culture, as well as embryo transfer and blastocyst freezing. The treatment cost varies according to different items, ranging from 5000 to 20000 yuan. For patients who need to try many times, they may have to pay higher fees.
It is worth noting that the above costs are only approximate estimates, and the actual costs need to be determined in combination with the specific situation and hospital pricing. In addition, the cost of IVF treatment will also be affected by other factors, such as medical insurance reimbursement, medication costs, etc. Before IVF treatment, patients should consult their doctors to understand the expenses and reimbursement in detail, so as to make a wise decision.
