For the female partner of a couple who knows that her fallopian tubes are blocked, damaged or absent may consider IVF clinics a possibility in receiving treatment. IVF is also used together with other treatments such as surrogacy, a procedure that involves a surrogate mother carrying the child for the infertile couple. People interested in how IVF may be used with other treatments should consult a medical professional at a fertility clinic for more information.
In vitro fertilization, also known as IVF, involves taking out the woman's eggs from her ovaries. The eggs are mixed with the man's sperm in a dish in a lab so that an embryo may form. After the egg has been fertilized, they are placed into the woman's uterus where the woman will hopefully carry the child to term. This is a basic explanation of the procedure and women with further questions or who want to know more about the process should speak to a medical professional at one of the IVF clinics in their area.
Before the procedure, the woman is given fertility drugs that help her produce the several healthy eggs required for this procedure. The fertility drugs are not required, but not using them may significantly reduce the chances of the procedure being a success. While some women report flushing and headaches, women taking the fertility drugs can respond differently and so they will be monitored closely. Women should speak to a doctor before taking any fertility mediations.
A doctor will closely monitor the woman's temperature and the status of her hormones. To ensure that the eggs are ready to be retrieved for the procedure, an ultrasound will be conducted three to six days prior to ovulation. The IVF cycle may take about four to six weeks to complete. About half a day is required for the egg retrieval and fertilization procedures, and the woman will be required to return to the clinic a few days later for the embryos to be transferred to her uterus.
An anesthetic is required for the egg retrieval process. Using ultrasound as a guide, the eggs are retrieved using a tiny needle. There is minimal pain following the egg retrieval and the procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes to complete. The success rate of IVF is about 10 to 20% and may be less in some cases.
Patients interested in locating IVF clinics should discuss the matter with their partner before deciding to go through with the procedure.
