IVF

What is the actual process?

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) allows those stages of conception which usually occur in the tubes to be performed in the laboratory i.e. in vitro. It is now widely used to treat most forms of infertility.

The process of IVF can be daunting so we’ve broken it down into easy to read steps.

IVF step-by-step

Step 1: Inhibit the body’s ability to ovulate so that eggs remain in the ovaries ready for egg collection. This is done by placing the patient on the contraceptive pill.

Step 2: Stimulation of ovaries to encourage growth of oocytes (eggs). This is done using a Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) administered by injection

Step 3: Blood tests are taken to determine ideal time for retrieving the eggs. This is known as "egg pick up". Ultrasound scan is performed to determine the number of follicles as well as their location and size.

Step 4: Ovulation is triggered with an injection of hCG and, around 37 hours later, "egg pick up" is arranged.

Step 5: "Egg Pick-Up". This is done under a general anaesthetic either transvaginally or laparoscopically.

Step 6: Once eggs are collected, sperm are added to them about 4 hours later as this mimics what happens in nature.

Step 7: Between 3 and 5 days after the eggs were inseminated, the divided embryos are transferred into the uterus using a fine catheter gently passed through the cervix. No anaesthetic is required. As recommended by the Fertility Society of Australia a maximum of two embryos can be transferred to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy. We will only transfer one embryo if you are under 38 years of age. Two embryos will only be considered for patients over 38 years.