IN VITRO FERTILIZATION

While in vitro fertilization (IVF) is a more advanced form of fertility treatment, it is particularly successful as it can bypass the many possible causes of infertility. It also allows for gender selection and can prevent the transfer of genetically abnormal embryos.

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The process of IVF begins with the suppression of the monthly hormone cycle and subsequent introduction of the fertility hormone (FSH) to produce multiple eggs. Once the eggs are mature, they are collected from the ovary in a simple, painless procedure with local or light anesthesia, and with only minimal side effects.

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From there, the eggs are fertilized in a laboratory with specially washed and treated sperm. The final step in the process is to implant a select number of fertilized eggs, or embryos, into the uterus, which has been prepared by wall-thickening hormones.

While the process is straightforward, each stage in the procedure—from inducing the production of eggs to subsequent retrieval and culturing in the lab—depends on careful monitoring, skill and experience.