Birth

In-vitro Fertilisation (IVF) refers to a procedure where the woman's eggs are removed from her ovaries and the man’s sperms are collected from his semen sample, and then fertilisation is carried out in a laboratory which has an environment replicating the human body. The embryos, formed in the lab are then put back into the uterus to achieve a pregnancy.

The process is commonly known as ‘test tube’ procedure as it is done outside the human body.

Is IVF for Me ?

IVF is generally recommended for the couples who have:

Female Infertility

Blocked, absent or irreparably diseased fallopian tubes
Ovulation disorders (such as premature ovarian failure, irregular ovulation cycles)
Endometriosis
Uterine fibroids
PCOD
Tuberculosis with uterus lining
High age (diminished ovarian reserve)

Male Infertility

Decreased sperm count
Decreased sperm motility

History of Genetic Disorders

Unexplained Infertility

Failure of Earlier ART

Who are unable to conceive after first and second line assisted reproduction procedures like ovulation induction (OI) and intrauterine insemination (IUI)

Hormonal Imbalances

Donor Oocyte

For couples who require donor oocytes

What about the Precaution ?

Take medications as prescribed by the treating doctor as these have been prescribed to improve your chances of achieving pregnancy. If you become pregnant you might be asked to continue some of these medications until the 12th week of pregnancy when the body usually starts producing enough.
Avoid smoking and drinking and exposure to cigarettes and X-rays.
Please consult your fertility experts before taking any medication not prescribed by them.

Advantages

Successful Pregnancy

The couples don’t have to waste their time in other infertility treatments when the causes include blocked fallopian tubes, maternal age, reduced ovarian reserve and severe male infertility issues. In these cases, IVF is the best treatment option.
Prior Detection of Genetic Disorder

Increases chances of having a healthy baby. When there is a chance of passing any genetic disorder, preimplantation genetic screening in IVF makes it possible to choose a healthy embryo.
Broad Opportunity

IVF can be used successfully in any individual. It can be used in surrogate or gestational carriers, women who are facing frequent miscarriages and in single mothers and same sex couples who want to enter parenthood.

Risk Factors

in In-vitro Fertilisation

Multiple Pregnancies

This may result when more than one embryo is inserted, which increases the risk of low birth weight or premature birth.
Miscarriages

Like normal pregnancy IVF pregnancy also has a risk of miscarriages.
Ectopic Pregnancy

When egg implants outside the uterus it is called an ectopic pregnancy. 2% to 5% of women with IVF have an ectopic pregnancy, where pregnancy cannot be continued.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is the injectable fertility drug used to induce ovulation. During this process, ovaries may become swollen and painful, which is called Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome. Symptoms include mild abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating and diarrhea. These symptoms will disappear in a few weeks.
Stress

IVF can be physically, emotionally and financially draining, which may cause stress. Emotional support from the partner and family can help you to go through the ups and downs of fertility treatment.