Steps of IVF
In vitro fertilization embryo transfer (IVF-ET) is a method to help couples who cannot conceive naturally achieve their fertility aspirations. The steps of IVF will be described in detail below.
1. Preliminary preparation
First, couples need to go to a regular reproductive medical center, such as the reproductive center of a hospital, for consultation and preliminary examination. The doctor will understand the basic situation of the couple and check whether there are problems that can be solved by other methods.
After the preliminary assessment, the couple needs to undergo a series of comprehensive physical examinations, including semen examination of the man, ovarian function examination of the woman and uterine assessment. These tests can help doctors develop personalized treatment plans.
At the same time, in the early stage of preparation, the woman may need to receive some ovulation promoting drugs to stimulate follicular development and improve the chance of pregnancy. The doctor will make specific drug plans according to the woman's situation.
2. Egg collection and sperm extraction
After the ovary has developed to a proper stage, the doctor will perform an egg collection operation. The operation is usually carried out under general anesthesia, and the doctor extracts eggs through a fine needle guided by transvaginal ultrasound. The egg collection operation usually needs to be completed within dozens of minutes.
At the same time, the man needs to provide semen samples. If men have problems with sperm quantity or vitality, they may need to undergo sperm extraction surgery to obtain sperm for subsequent in vitro fertilization.
3. In vitro fertilization and embryo culture
After collecting eggs and sperm, doctors will conduct in vitro fertilization in the laboratory. The sperm and egg are co cultured to promote fertilization. This process usually takes 24-48 hours. If fertilization is successful, the embryo will begin to develop.
The embryo culture usually lasts for 3-5 days, and the doctor will monitor the development of the embryo. At a certain stage of development, doctors will choose the best embryos for transplantation.
4. Embryo transfer and follow-up monitoring
Embryo transfer is the last step of IVF technology. The doctor will use a thin tube to transfer the embryo to the woman's uterus, usually without general anesthesia, only local anesthesia. This process is short and painless.
After the embryo transfer, the woman needs to have a proper rest and observation under the advice of the doctor. After about two weeks, a blood test can be performed to check whether the pregnancy is successful.
If the test result is positive, that is, the pregnancy is successful, then the couple needs to continue monitoring and nursing during pregnancy until the successful delivery.
Precautions and risks
IVF technology is a promising choice for couples who cannot conceive naturally, but there are also certain precautions and risks.
First, couples need to choose a formal reproductive medical center to ensure the professionalism of doctors and equipment. Unqualified medical institutions may increase the possibility of operational risks and adverse consequences.
Secondly, IVF technology is not 100% successful, and the success rate varies with individual differences and other factors. Couples need to be psychologically prepared and keep good communication with doctors to obtain the latest treatment information and suggestions.
In addition, during IVF, the woman may face some risks of physical discomfort and complications, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and pregnancy related complications. Couples should pay close attention to their own physical conditions, and treat and recuperate according to the doctor's recommendations.
summary
IVF technology is a way to help couples who cannot conceive naturally realize their dreams of fertility. Through preliminary preparation, egg collection and sperm extraction, in vitro fertilization and embryo culture, as well as embryo transfer and follow-up monitoring, couples can conduct IVF treatment under the guidance of doctors. However, when carrying out this technology, couples need to pay attention to selecting formal medical institutions, understand personal risks and possible complications, and keep close communication with doctors to improve the success rate of treatment and protect their own health.
