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In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is an assisted reproduction technique that has revolutionised the way infertility problems are tackled. It offers couples who have difficulty conceiving naturally a chance to start a family. This article explains the various stages and techniques involved in IVF, as well as its advantages and disadvantages.
In vitro fertilisation goes through several essential stages to achieve a successful pregnancy. Here is an overview of the different phases:
During this phase, the woman’s ovaries are stimulated to produce several oocytes. This stimulation is carried out using hormonal drugs. The aim is to obtain a sufficient number of mature oocytes to increase the chances of IVF success.
Once the oocytes have reached the desired maturity, an ovulation-inducing drug, often called a “trigger”, is administered. This process prepares the oocytes for retrieval (follicular puncture) approximately 36 hours later.
The retrieval is carried out under a light anaesthetic and is guided by ultrasound. The oocytes are then collected using a fine needle inserted into each mature follicle.
At the same time as the oocytes are collected, a sperm sample is provided by theman. A rigorous selection of the most mobile and viable spermatozoa is carried out to optimise fertilisation.
The mature oocytes are then brought together with the selected spermatozoa in a controlled laboratory environment. Optimum conditions are created to encourage the gametes to meet and facilitate the fusion of the sperm with the oocyte.
There are two main techniques for this stage:
After fertilisation, the fertile oocytes become embryos, which are cultured for a few days. This generally takes place between 3 and 5 days in the laboratory, where embryologists monitor their cellular development.
This process enables the most promising embryos to be selected to maximise the chances of successful implantation in the uterus.
The transfer of the embryos into the uterus marks a key stage. Usually, one or two embryos are transferred to limit the risk of multiple pregnancies. The choice of the number of embryos to be transferred is based on various medical factors, including the patient’s age and the quality of the embryos available.
The transfer is carried out vaginally using a thin, flexible catheter, minimising pain and discomfort for the patient. No anaesthetic is required for this rapid procedure.
Surplus viable embryos can be frozen for future attempts. This method, known as cryopreservation, reduces the need to repeat all the steps from the start in the event of an unsuccessful first attempt.
To ensure better embryo quality and avoid certain hereditary diseases, pre-implantation genetic screening can be carried out. This involves analysing the genetic characteristics of the embryos before they are transferred to the mother’s uterus.
Like any medical technique, IVF has its benefits, but it also has its challenges and limitations.
Some of the main advantages include
On the other hand, IVF does have certain aspects to consider:
Several factors play a crucial role in IVF success rates:
The woman’s age is a determining factor, as the quality and quantity of oocytes decreases with age. Women under 35 have a relatively better chance of success than those over 40.
Good quality oocytes and sperm make a major contribution to the formation of viable embryos. These parameters are carefully assessed when the respective samples are taken.
A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity, also helps to improve IVF results. In addition, avoiding tobacco, alcohol and other toxic substances promotes a better response to the hormonal treatments used during the procedure.
In vitro fertilisation is therefore a viable option for many couples facing the challenge of infertility. Despite its complex and sometimes restrictive aspects, it opens the door to motherhood and fatherhood for many of them.
PlusBaby resources are intended to provide general information and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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