in vitro fertilization ivf

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technology (ART) where eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilized by sperm in a specialized laboratory. The resulting embryo is then cultured and transferred into the uterus to establish a pregnancy.The IVF Treatment Steps1.Ovarian Stimulation:10–12 days of hormone injections.Injected fertility hormones (FSH/LH) stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs simultaneously rather than the single egg typical of a natural cycle. Ultrasound scans and blood tests monitor follicle growth.2.Egg Retrieval (Oocyte Aspiration):Minor outpatient surgical procedure.A “trigger shot” induces final egg maturation. Under light sedation, a doctor uses transvaginal ultrasound guidance to aspirate fluid and eggs from the ovarian follicles.3.Fertilization & Embryo Culture:Laboratory fertilization via conventional IVF or ICSI.Sperm is washed and combined with eggs in a culture dish. In cases of severe male-factor infertility, Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is used to inject a single sperm directly into an egg. Embryos develop in an incubator for 3 to 5 days until reaching the blastocyst stage.4.Embryo Transfer:Painless, non-surgical placement into the womb.One or two selected embryos are guided through a thin catheter into the uterus. Unused high-quality embryos can be frozen (cryopreserved) for future cycles.5.Luteal Phase Support & Pregnancy Test:Hormonal support & blood testing.Progesterone supplements support the uterine lining. A blood test ($beta$-hCG) is performed approximately 10 to 14 days after the transfer to confirm pregnancy.