In today’s world, where modern lifestyles and delayed parenthood are influencing fertility rates, IVF (In-vitro fertilisation) has emerged as a beacon of hope for many couples. According to the UNFPA’s 2025 State of World Population Report, India’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has decreased to 2.0, below the replacement level of 2.1, highlighting a growing trend of infertility Read More
IVF is a medical procedure where an egg and sperm are combined outside the body in a laboratory setting. The fertilised egg (embryo) is then implanted into the uterus to establish a pregnancy. IVF is typically used when other fertility treatments have failed or when specific medical conditions such as blocked fallopian tubes or low sperm count are present. An IVF cycle is typically completed in about 20 days, involving multiple clinic visits for consultations, monitoring, and procedures. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the stages involved: The IVF journey begins with a fertility evaluation for both partners. This involves blood tests, ultrasounds, semen analysis, and a detailed discussion on medical history and lifestyle factors. Understanding these details helps the fertility specialist tailor a treatment plan that is best suited for the couple’s unique needs. After the initial assessment, the next step involves ovarian stimulation. Fertility medications are prescribed to encourage the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, rather than just one egg that naturally develops each month. During this phase, patients visit the clinic every alternate day for scans and blood tests to monitor progress. Dr. Astha Dayal, Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, explains, “The stimulation phase typically lasts for 10–14 days, and during this time, we carefully monitor the ovaries’ response.” Once the eggs are mature, a minor surgical procedure is performed to retrieve them. This is done under sedation, and the patient is usually sent home the same day. Dr. Hina Shaikh, Consultant for Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, mentions that the procedure is performed once the follicles reach 18–20 mm in size. In the lab, the retrieved eggs are fertilised using sperm, often with the help of ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg. Dr. Shaikh highlights, “ICSI is particularly helpful in cases of male infertility.” The fertilised eggs are closely monitored, and successful embryos are selected for transfer. Once the embryos are ready, the next step is the embryo transfer. This outpatient procedure involves placing one or more embryos into the uterus using a thin catheter. Dr. Dayal explains, “Embryo transfer is a simple, painless procedure, although some mild symptoms like bloating, cramping, or spotting may occur post-transfer.” After the embryo transfer, the waiting game begins. A blood test is conducted around two weeks later to determine if the implantation was successful. “The most critical part of the IVF process is the two-week wait before the pregnancy test,” says Dr. Dayal. This period can be emotionally challenging, as couples anxiously await results. IVF success rates vary based on several factors, including age, underlying health conditions, and lifestyle habits. According to Dr. Sunita Tandulwadkar, President of the Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India, success rates are as follows: Dr. Dayal warns that many people underestimate the impact of age on IVF success, stating, “After the age of 35, the chances of success drop significantly.” Lifestyle factors such as stress, diet, and sleep patterns also play a crucial role in fertility outcomes. IVF can be physically demanding and emotionally taxing. Dr. Tandulwadkar notes that while IVF procedures are largely safe, the emotional strain of hormonal stimulation, the waiting period, and the uncertainty of outcomes can be overwhelming. “Empathetic care and counselling are vital to help patients navigate the emotional journey,” she says. Several myths surround IVF, including: IVF remains one of the most advanced and reliable fertility treatments available today. As assisted reproductive technologies continue to evolve, understanding the IVF process, its success factors, and emotional impact is crucial for couples considering this treatment. While the financial and emotional costs can be significant, the potential rewards of achieving pregnancy and building a family make IVF a viable option for many couples facing infertility. What Is IVF?
The IVF Cycle: Step-by-Step Process
1. Initial Consultation and Assessment
2. Ovarian Stimulation
3. Egg Retrieval (Ovum Pick-Up)
4. Fertilisation and Embryo Development
5. Embryo Transfer
6. Pregnancy Test
Success Rates and Factors Influencing IVF Outcomes
Emotional Impact of IVF
Common Misconceptions About IVF
Conclusion
IVF Process Unveiled: Things To Know And Understand About Fertility Treatment
In today’s world, where modern lifestyles and delayed parenthood are influencing fertility rates, IVF (In-vitro fertilisation) has emerged as a beacon of hope for many couples. According to the UNFPA’s 2025 State of World Population Report, India’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has decreased to 2.0, below the replacement level of 2.1, highlighting a growing trend of infertility Read More