What is IVF and How is it Done?

What is IVF and How is it Done?
0

IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is a widely used assisted reproductive treatment that helps couples achieve pregnancy when natural conception is not possible or has not occurred despite regular unprotected intercourse. In IVF, eggs are collected from the ovaries and combined with sperm in a laboratory to create embryos. One or more selected embryos are then placed into the uterus to attempt pregnancy.

Because IVF includes multiple medical and laboratory steps, it is typically performed by a multidisciplinary team, including a gynecologist, andrologist/urologist, embryologist, nurses, and supporting clinical staff.

What Is IVF? (Brief Summary)

IVF stands for “in vitro fertilization,” meaning fertilization happens outside the body in a laboratory setting. The goal is to create healthy embryos and transfer the most suitable embryo into the uterus at the right time.

Who Is IVF Recommended For?

IVF may be recommended for couples who cannot conceive despite regular unprotected intercourse:

  • After 12 months if the woman is under 35
  • After 6 months if the woman is 35 or older

Couples who do not want to wait this period (for example, due to age-related concerns) can be evaluated earlier to identify potential reproductive health issues and discuss appropriate treatment options.

In Which Situations Is IVF Needed?

IVF may be considered depending on the underlying cause of infertility. Common situations include:

For Women

  • Decreased ovarian reserve
  • Irregular menstrual cycles (especially <21 days or >35 days)
  • History of pelvic inflammatory disease
  • Prior ectopic pregnancy
  • Prior abdominal or pelvic surgery (possible adhesions affecting tubes)
  • History of sexually transmitted infections
  • Endometriosis (including endometriomas)

For Men

  • Abnormal semen parameters (count, motility, morphology)
  • History of mumps affecting the testicles
  • Testicular trauma
  • Surgery for undescended testicles
  • Exposure to chemicals or radiation
  • Sexual dysfunction issues affecting conception

Other Medical Situations

IVF may also be considered:

  • When one partner has a known genetic disease (e.g., thalassemia, hemophilia, cystic fibrosis)
  • For fertility preservation before cancer treatment (chemotherapy/radiotherapy)
  • In specific infectious disease contexts (e.g., hepatitis/HIV) when clinically indicated by specialist evaluation

How to Prepare for IVF Treatment

Lifestyle and general health can affect egg and sperm quality. Couples are often advised to start preparing about 3 months before treatment, including:

  • Quitting smoking (strongly recommended)
  • Reducing or avoiding alcohol
  • Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables
  • Achieving a healthy body weight when possible
  • Regular light exercise (walking, cycling, etc.)
  • Following any doctor-recommended supplements or medical plans

Stages of IVF Treatment (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Consultation, Examination, and Testing

At the first visit, the medical team reviews:

  • Medical history and previous treatments
  • Ultrasound evaluation
  • Required laboratory tests

It is important that both partners attend the first consultation when possible. Patients should bring previous test results, imaging (e.g., HSG if available), and reports of prior surgeries or infertility treatments.

Common Tests for Women Starting IVF

  • AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone)
  • FSH, LH
  • Estradiol (E2)
  • Progesterone (P4)
  • Prolactin
  • Hemogram (CBC)
  • Thyroid tests (Free T3, Free T4)
  • Rubella IgG
  • HBsAg, Anti-HCV, Anti-HIV 1–2

Common Tests for Men Starting IVF

  • Semen analysis (spermiogram)
  • HBsAg, Anti-HCV, Anti-HIV 1–2

The goal of this step is to identify contributing factors and choose the most suitable protocol.

Step 2: Controlled Ovarian Stimulation

Treatment usually begins on day 2 or 3 of the menstrual cycle. The ovaries are stimulated with hormone injections (commonly FSH/HMG-based medications) to support the development of multiple follicles.

During stimulation:

  • Follicle growth is monitored by ultrasound
  • Hormone levels (often estradiol) may be checked
  • Medication doses are adjusted based on response

When leading follicles reach an appropriate size (often around 18–20 mm), a trigger injection is administered.

Step 3: Egg Collection (OPU) and Sperm Collection

Egg retrieval is performed approximately 34–36 hours after the trigger shot:

  • Done vaginally under short anesthesia/sedation
  • Typically takes around 10 minutes
  • Most patients go home the same day after a brief rest

On the same day, the male partner provides a sperm sample in a sterile container. No lubricants or soaps should be used during collection.

Step 4: Fertilization and Embryo Development in the Laboratory

In the lab, eggs are evaluated and fertilized using one of two main methods:

  • Conventional IVF: sperm and egg are placed in the same environment to allow fertilization.
  • ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): a selected sperm is injected directly into the egg, commonly used in male factor infertility or when indicated.

Embryos are cultured in incubators and monitored daily to support selection of embryos with the highest implantation potential.

Step 5: Embryo Transfer

Embryo transfer is a short and usually painless procedure performed using a thin catheter. The timing of transfer may vary depending on:

  • Embryo development (day 2, day 3, or day 5 blastocyst)
  • Patient age
  • Previous IVF attempts
  • Number and quality of embryos

If additional good-quality embryos remain, they can be frozen and stored for future use, providing additional treatment opportunities without repeating stimulation.

Step 6: Medications After Transfer

After transfer, medications are continued to support implantation as advised by the physician. Mild symptoms such as:

  • Breast tenderness
  • Mild pelvic/groin discomfort
  • Light spotting

may occur and can be normal. If symptoms become severe, patients should contact their clinic.

Step 7: After-Transfer Considerations

After transfer:

  • Rest briefly at the clinic (commonly around 30 minutes)
  • A short rest at home (often 1 day) is recommended
  • Normal daily activities can usually resume, avoiding heavy lifting and intense exercise
  • Smoking and alcohol should be avoided
  • Follow medication instructions carefully

Step 8: Pregnancy Test (Beta hCG)

A Beta hCG blood test is typically performed 11–12 days after embryo transfer. In some cases, the test may be repeated 2 days later to confirm appropriate hormone rise.

Home urine tests may show early results, but the blood test provides the most reliable confirmation.

How Is the Embryo to Be Transferred Chosen?

Embryo selection is based primarily on embryo quality and clinical considerations such as:

  • Patient age
  • Number of embryos available
  • Development stage (day 2/day 3/day 5)
  • Previous treatment history

The embryologist and physician decide together on the transfer day and the number of embryos to transfer.

Step 3: Egg Collection (OPU) and Sperm Collection

Egg retrieval is performed approximately 34–36 hours after the trigger shot:

  • Done vaginally under short anesthesia/sedation
  • Typically takes around 10 minutes
  • Most patients go home the same day after a brief rest

On the same day, the male partner provides a sperm sample in a sterile container. No lubricants or soaps should be used during collection.

Step 4: Fertilization and Embryo Development in the Laboratory

In the lab, eggs are evaluated and fertilized using one of two main methods:

  • Conventional IVF: sperm and egg are placed in the same environment to allow fertilization.
  • ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): a selected sperm is injected directly into the egg, commonly used in male factor infertility or when indicated.

Embryos are cultured in incubators and monitored daily to support selection of embryos with the highest implantation potential.

Step 5: Embryo Transfer

Embryo transfer is a short and usually painless procedure performed using a thin catheter. The timing of transfer may vary depending on:

  • Embryo development (day 2, day 3, or day 5 blastocyst)
  • Patient age
  • Previous IVF attempts
  • Number and quality of embryos

If additional good-quality embryos remain, they can be frozen and stored for future use, providing additional treatment opportunities without repeating stimulation.

Step 6: Medications After Transfer

After transfer, medications are continued to support implantation as advised by the physician. Mild symptoms such as:

  • Breast tenderness
  • Mild pelvic/groin discomfort
  • Light spotting

may occur and can be normal. If symptoms become severe, patients should contact their clinic.

Step 7: After-Transfer Considerations

After transfer:

  • Rest briefly at the clinic (commonly around 30 minutes)
  • A short rest at home (often 1 day) is recommended
  • Normal daily activities can usually resume, avoiding heavy lifting and intense exercise
  • Smoking and alcohol should be avoided
  • Follow medication instructions carefully

Step 8: Pregnancy Test (Beta hCG)

A Beta hCG blood test is typically performed 11–12 days after embryo transfer. In some cases, the test may be repeated 2 days later to confirm appropriate hormone rise.

Home urine tests may show early results, but the blood test provides the most reliable confirmation.

How Is the Embryo to Be Transferred Chosen?

Embryo selection is based primarily on embryo quality and clinical considerations such as:

  • Patient age
  • Number of embryos available
  • Development stage (day 2/day 3/day 5)
  • Previous treatment history

The embryologist and physician decide together on the transfer day and the number of embryos to transfer.

Types of Fertility Treatments

Depending on diagnosis and clinical plan, treatments may include:

  • IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)
  • Conventional IVF
  • ICSI (Microinjection)

Does IVF Mean Multiple Pregnancy?

A common belief is that IVF always results in twins or triplets. This is not necessarily true. The risk of multiple pregnancy mainly depends on how many embryos are transferred.

In many settings and regulations:

  • Patients under 35 typically receive 1 embryo
  • Patients 35 and older may receive up to 2 embryos, depending on clinical evaluation

This approach helps reduce multiple pregnancy risk.

How Long Does IVF Take?

An IVF cycle typically takes about 3 weeks from the start of ovarian stimulation to embryo transfer. This may vary depending on:

  • Individual response
  • Monitoring schedule
  • Transfer timing (day 2–day 5)

What Is the Success Rate of IVF?

IVF success depends on multiple factors, especially:

  • Female age
  • Egg reserve and egg quality
  • Cause of infertility
  • Embryo quality

Because egg quantity and quality decline with age, starting evaluation and treatment without unnecessary delay can be beneficial when IVF is indicated.

Can IVF Patients Have a Normal Delivery?

IVF pregnancies are generally similar to naturally conceived pregnancies. Many patients can have a normal (vaginal) delivery. However, delivery method depends on obstetric evaluation, maternal health, and pregnancy-related risk factors.

How Much Does IVF Cost?

Due to legal and regulatory limitations, IVF price information may not be published on the website. For detailed information, you can fill out our contact form or call 444 39 49. You can also join our community group for support and shared experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is IVF and how does it work?

IVF is a fertility treatment where eggs and sperm are combined in a laboratory to create embryos, and an embryo is transferred into the uterus to attempt pregnancy.

When should a couple consider IVF?

If pregnancy does not occur after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse (or 6 months if the woman is 35+), IVF evaluation may be recommended.

How long does an IVF cycle take?

Most IVF cycles take about 2–3 weeks from stimulation start to embryo transfer.

Is egg retrieval painful?

Egg retrieval is performed under sedation/anesthesia, so pain is usually minimal. Mild cramping after the procedure can occur.

When is the pregnancy test done after embryo transfer?

A Beta hCG blood test is usually done 11–12 days after transfer.

What is the difference between IVF and ICSI?

In IVF, sperm and egg are placed together for fertilization. In ICSI, a single sperm is injected directly into the egg.

Does IVF guarantee pregnancy?

No. IVF increases the chance of pregnancy, but success depends on age, egg quality, embryo quality, and other medical factors.

Does IVF always cause twins?

No. Twin risk mainly depends on the number of embryos transferred. Many patients receive a single embryo transfer.

Due to the law, we cannot provide price information on our website. You can fill out our contact form or call us at 444 39 49 to get detailed information about any topic you are curious about regarding IVF treatment. You can become a member of our Facebook group Umut Ol Umut Bul for all your questions.

Leave a Comment!

Your email address will not be published. Please fill in the required fields!


Let Us Call You

Let us call you as soon as possible regarding the issues you want to consult.

Let Us Call You



    What is IVF and How is it Done?

    Ask the Doctor

      Ask the Doctor



      © 2010 - 2026 All rights reserved. | Design & Development
      Son güncelleme tarihi : 23.11.2025 17:24:19

      What is IVF and How is it Done?

      Let Us Call You

      Phone numbers

        Or you can reach us at +90549 821 92 04.