What is the treatment cycle of IVF?
IVF is an assisted reproductive technology, which can help couples who cannot conceive naturally due to reproductive system problems to achieve their reproductive aspirations. The treatment cycle of IVF usually includes the following four aspects: physical examination and evaluation, ovulation and egg collection, fertilization and embryo culture, embryo transfer and pregnancy observation.
Physical examination and assessment
Before starting IVF treatment, couples need to undergo a comprehensive physical examination and assessment. They will carry out male and female reproductive system inspection under the guidance of specialist doctors to identify possible problems and develop personalized treatment plans. These tests can include blood and urine tests, ultrasound and endoscopy.
In addition, couples also need to receive psychological counseling to ensure that they are psychologically ready for all stages of IVF treatment. The goal of this stage is to ensure that the couple are physically and mentally healthy and have the best preparation before treatment.
Ovulation and egg collection
Ovulation and egg collection are key steps in IVF treatment. Women need to inject hormones to promote the development and maturation of multiple follicles. This process needs to be closely monitored to ensure the normal development of follicles. Doctors will use ultrasound and blood tests to monitor follicle size and hormone levels.
Once the follicle develops to a sufficient size, the doctor will arrange an egg collection operation. This operation is usually carried out under anesthesia, and doctors will use ultrasound guided fine needles to puncture the ovary to collect eggs. The collected eggs will be immediately transferred to the laboratory for fertilization preparation.
Fertilization and embryo culture
Fertilization is done in the laboratory. Two conventional fertilization methods can be selected: in vitro fertilization (that is, placing eggs and sperm together in a culture dish) or microinjection (that is, injecting a sperm into each egg under a microscope).
After successful fertilization, the fertilized eggs will continue to be cultured in the culture dish. Usually, after 2-5 days of culture, doctors will select the best embryo for transplantation according to the quality and development of the embryo. In some cases, doctors can also choose to conduct embryonic genetic screening to exclude embryos with chromosome abnormalities.
Embryo transfer and pregnancy observation
Embryo transfer is the last stage of IVF treatment. In the process of embryo culture, the doctor selects the most suitable embryo to implant it into the female uterus. This process usually requires no anesthesia and is very safe and painless. Doctors will use a catheter to gently place the embryos into the uterus, allowing them to attach and grow.
After embryo transfer, women need to take hormone drugs to help the embryo implant in the uterus. Within 10 to 14 days after the embryo transfer, the doctor will conduct a pregnancy test to determine whether it is successful. If the test result is positive, the woman will be confirmed pregnant and continue to carry out further pregnancy observation and care.
summary
Every stage of IVF treatment cycle is very important. From physical examination and assessment to ovulation and egg collection, to fertilization and embryo culture, and finally to embryo transfer and pregnancy observation, each step requires precise operation and professional nursing. With reasonable treatment plans and the support of thoughtful medical teams, IVF technology provides a chance for couples who dream of having a healthy baby to realize their dreams.
