How is IVF realized?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer (ET) is an assisted reproductive technology, which helps couples who cannot conceive naturally realize their reproductive aspirations by artificially assisting pregnancy and embryo development. So, how is IVF realized? The following will introduce the realization process of IVF from the aspects of patient screening, egg retrieval and sperm processing, embryo culture and transplantation.
Patient screening
The IVF process first requires patient screening. Generally speaking, at least one of the couples needs to have infertility problems, such as endometriosis, ovarian dysfunction, etc. The patient needs to go to a regular reproductive hospital for examination. The doctor will evaluate the patient according to his/her individual conditions, including age, medical history, reproductive hormone level, etc., to ensure that the patient is suitable for IVF.
In the basic examination, women need to carry out ultrasonic examination, blood examination, hysteroscopy, etc. to assess the status of the uterus and ovary. Men need semen analysis to assess the quantity and quality of sperm. Doctors may also conduct genetic counseling to find out whether there are genetic diseases in patients and families.
After comprehensive evaluation, doctors will develop individualized IVF programs according to the specific conditions of patients.
Egg taking and sperm treatment
Egg retrieval and sperm processing is one of the key steps in IVF. First, women need ovulation induction therapy. Doctors will develop ovulation promotion programs according to the patient's age and ovarian function, and promote the development of eggs through hormone injection.
After the egg is mature, the doctor will take the egg. Generally, painless artificial controlled ovarian cycle oocyte retrieval is used to extract eggs through ultrasound-guided puncture technology. This process is usually carried out in the operating room and requires anesthesia cooperation.
At the same time, the man needs to provide fresh semen samples or frozen sperm. For patients with poor semen quality, sperm with better vitality can be selected by means of fine semen collection and oocyte concentration technology.
Embryo culture and transfer
After the eggs and sperm are taken and treated, the doctor conducts in vitro fertilization of the eggs and sperm to cultivate the embryo. Generally, eggs and sperm are placed in culture dishes to provide suitable nutrients and environment, such as body temperature, carbon dioxide concentration, etc. Embryonic development requires continuous monitoring and evaluation.
In the process of embryo culture, doctors will choose the right time for embryo transfer according to the development of the embryo. Generally speaking, embryo transfer can be divided into fresh embryo transfer and frozen embryo transfer. Fresh embryo transfer is to transfer the cultured embryos directly into the mother's uterus; The frozen embryo transfer is to freeze and preserve the surplus embryos, thaw them at the right time and transfer them into the uterus.
Embryo transfer usually requires endometrial preparation, that is, hormone therapy can promote the thickening and growth of endometrium and provide a suitable implantation environment. The doctor will determine the thickness and quality of endometrium through transvaginal ultrasound to determine the best time for transplantation.
Summary
The realization process of IVF mainly includes patient screening, egg retrieval and sperm treatment, embryo culture and transplantation. In the whole process, patients need to go to formal reproductive hospitals for comprehensive assessment and inspection, and doctors will develop individualized treatment plans according to specific conditions. Egg retrieval and sperm processing are key steps in the IVF process, which require surgery and laboratory operations. For embryo culture and transplantation, doctors need to monitor the development of embryos and choose the right time. The continuous development of IVF technology provides a viable reproductive option for couples who cannot conceive naturally.
