How is the IVF procedure carried out in stages

How is the IVF procedure

Many couples who decide to use artificial insemination to conceive a child do not know how the IVF procedure works.

This is not one single manipulation, but a whole range of activities that usually lasts several weeks, and, if successful, ends with the woman's pregnancy.

Let's talk about how IVF goes step by step.

This procedure can be divided into stages:

1. Preparation for IVF.

Preparation for IVF includes a comprehensive examination of the couple.

Diagnostic procedures are required for:

There are mandatory and optional tests. Compulsory examinations are assigned to all married couples without exception. Without them, you will not be able to enter the IVF protocol. Additional studies may be ordered according to indications.

Mandatory tests and diagnostic procedures for both spouses:

1. Blood for HIV, viral hepatitis B and C, syphilis, genital herpes.
2. Determination of blood group and Rh factor.
3. Microscopy of a smear from the genital tract.
4. PCR smear from the genital tract for infections: chlamydia, ureaplasmosis, mycoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus, herpes.

Mandatory tests and consultations for men:

Mandatory tests, consultations and diagnostic procedures for women:

1. Blood test for sex hormones.
2. Blood test for TORCH infections (rubella, toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus).
3. Coagulogram (hemostasiogram).
4. Clinical analysis of blood and urine.
5. Blood chemistry.
6. Microscopy of a smear from the urethra, cervical canal, vagina.
7. Cytological examination of a smear from the cervix and cervical canal.
8. PCR smear for herpes type II, HPV 16 and 18 types.
9. Ultrasound of the pelvic organs.
10. Ultrasound of the thyroid gland.
11. Electrocardiography.
12. Echocardiography.
13. Fluorography.
14. Ultrasound of the mammary glands, and after 35 years - mammography.
15. Mammologist consultation.
16. Therapist's consultation.

Sometimes women are prescribed additional examinations, such as hysteroscopy or laparoscopy.

2. Stimulation of superovulation.

A woman is prescribed hormonal drugs to stimulate the maturation of several eggs at once. With a good ovarian reserve, about 10 follicles mature in one cycle. From most of them it will be possible to obtain high-quality eggs in the future.

The stimulation scheme is selected for each woman individually. There are many types of IVF protocols. To stimulate ovulation, special hormonal preparations are used. The main criteria for choosing a stimulation regimen and dosage are the woman's age, her ovarian reserve and previous stimulation experience.

Sometimes this step is missing. IVF in women with low ovarian reserve is often performed in a natural cycle. That is, hormonal preparations for the maturation of a large number of eggs are not prescribed.

3. Puncture of follicles.

With the help of ultrasound, the process of growth of follicles in the ovaries of a woman is regularly monitored. These are fluid-filled vesicles, most of which contain an egg. To obtain germ cells, a puncture of the follicles is performed.

This procedure takes place under general intravenous anesthesia and lasts only a few minutes. After the oocytes are collected, they are immediately placed in a nutrient medium and sent to the embryological laboratory.

4. Fertilization of eggs.

On the same day, the eggs are fertilized. For this, the sperm of the spouse (if necessary, a donor) can be used. Therefore, the husband must also come to the clinic on the day of the follicle puncture in order to donate sperm.

Sometimes frozen (cryopreserved) sperm is used. This is usually required if:

• the husband has little sperm, and it needs to be accumulated before the fertilization procedure;
• the husband does not have time to come on the day of the follicle puncture, and he donates sperm in advance.

Also, frozen sperm is usually used if there is a need for egg fertilization using donor biomaterial. Donor sperm may be required for single women or with absolute infertility of the husband.

5. Cultivation of embryos.

Embryos are made from fertilized eggs. They are in a special nutrient medium. Then they develop in an incubator within 3-5 days. For embryos, conditions are created that are as close to natural as possible.

At this stage of IVF, PGD is possible. This is a method for diagnosing genetic and chromosomal abnormalities. It allows you to choose a healthy embryo for transfer into the uterus, which is highly likely to develop normally.

6. Embryo transfer.

1 or 2 embryos are transferred into the uterus, depending on how the chances of pregnancy are assessed. When transferring 2 embryos, the success rate is higher. However, the risk of multiple pregnancy also increases.

The transfer procedure itself is simple and painless. It only lasts a couple of minutes. With a special device resembling a syringe with a flexible tube at the end, the embryo is placed in the uterine cavity. With the successful implantation of the embryo in the endometrium (the mucous layer of the uterus), pregnancy occurs.

7. Control and support of pregnancy.

After the embryo transfer, the woman is prescribed hormonal preparations for the normal development of pregnancy. Its confirmation is carried out after 2 weeks using a blood test for hCG. After another 1 week, the woman undergoes an ultrasound scan. Pregnancy is diagnosed when a fetal egg is detected in the uterus using ultrasound.

Now you know how IVF goes step by step. Do not be afraid of this procedure. It is a safe and highly effective method of overcoming infertility. Thanks to IVF, hundreds of thousands of couples around the world have already become happy parents.

One of the main factors affecting the duration of preparation for the IVF procedure is the state of health of both partners, especially their reproductive organs. For example, if a woman has endometriosis, a fibroid, or a cyst, it will take time to heal. If antibodies to rubella are found, it will be necessary to vaccinate and postpone the IVF procedure for 2-3 months in order to eliminate the risk of infection of the embryo.

Also, you will have to postpone the IVF procedure if the partner has poor sperm counts.

It can take up to three months just to eliminate hypo- or beriberi in partners.

In addition, the duration of preparation for the procedure depends on the protocol prescribed by the doctor. So, the classic protocol takes 2-4 weeks, and the long and extra-long protocol takes from 1 to 3 months.

IVF preparation procedure

First of all, both partners will have to give up alcohol, cigarettes and other bad habits. This is necessary in order to improve the condition of the eggs and sperm. In addition, future parents are prescribed vitamin complexes that contain vitamin B 9.

Next, the spouses need to consult an andrologist, gynecologist, endocrinologist, reproductologist and mammologist. A woman gives smears for infections, cytology (to exclude the likelihood of oncology) and vaginal microflora. The partner, in turn, makes a spermogram.

To undergo the in vitro fertilization procedure, you must undergo the following tests:

1. Hemostasiogram.

2. Analysis that determines the blood type and Rh factor.

3. Analysis that determines the level of hormones.

4. Blood test for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis (B and C).

5. Biochemical analysis of blood.

6. General analysis of urine.

7. It is desirable, in addition, to do a blood test for herpes, CMV and toxoplasmosis.

If the spouses are in the 35+ age group, as well as if there are hereditary diseases, it is also necessary to pass genetic tests. After that, the most viable and healthy embryo will be selected for transfer to the uterus.

A woman is prescribed a biopsy, ultrasound, hysteroscopy and laparoscopy. Hysteroscopy is needed if there are problems with bearing a baby.

IVF Protocol

After receiving the results of all tests, the doctor prescribes the optimal treatment. The IVF protocol is assigned according to the identified problems on an individual basis. However, there is a standard IVF protocol, which includes the following steps:

1. Stimulation of the ovaries.
2. Puncture of follicles (extraction of oocytes).
3. Transfer of the embryo into the uterine cavity.
4. Hormonal support.
5. Testing for HCG.

Based on the results of the tests, the doctor has the opportunity to more accurately determine the causes of infertility and, accordingly, prescribe the most effective treatment and develop a plan for preparing for the in vitro fertilization procedure.

How long is the preparatory phase?

IVF is an extremely important step in the history of any childless family, because it is an opportunity to give birth to the desired baby, and possibly even more than one.

And first of all, the question arises: what needs to be done to make the IVF procedure possible? How to prepare for IVF? And how long will this preparation last?

It is impossible to give an unambiguous answer to the questions posed, because individual treatment is selected for each couple, and the duration of the preparatory period before IVF depends on many factors, which include:

1. Duration of testing and waiting for test results.

2. The duration of the woman's menstrual cycle and, accordingly, the time of egg maturation.

3. Time required for embryo implantation.

And if everything becomes clear with the last point within two weeks, then the first two provisions require clarification.

Preparation time for the IVF procedure

No matter how it looks from the outside, throughout the IVF protocol, the feasible participation of not only women, but also men is required. Partners need to take blood tests for clotting, hormonal levels, etc., and do it as soon as possible. Typically, this takes about a week. Then there will be a whole raid on doctors, and it usually takes 1-2 weeks for all examinations, if you act promptly. A man without fail visits a urologist, and a woman visits a gynecologist, mammologist, uzist and cardiologist.

During a visit to the urologist, the anamnesis of the diseases that the patient suffered at one time is studied, and then the sperm is collected to determine its condition, quality and fertility. If the result does not satisfy the specialist, the man donates blood for analysis to identify the causes of such anomalies.

A woman during a visit to doctors takes a swab from the cervix and genital tract to determine if there are any pathogenic bacteria. After that, she takes hormonal drugs for two weeks without fail, which stimulate the maturation of eggs, and then the mature eggs are removed. After that, under laboratory conditions, the spermatozoa are planted in the extracted follicles. After a few days, the embryo is transferred into the uterine cavity, and after another 2 weeks, you can do the first pregnancy test to find out the result. In other words, the average duration of preparation for IVF is from 1 to 2 months.

If the test shows a positive result, the woman becomes a regular visitor to the clinic for the next few months; during this time, her health, as well as the condition and development of the fetus, are carefully monitored. If the result is negative, do not despair: after a while, you can make another IVF attempt.

How to start preparing for IVF

In vitro fertilization is becoming a lifesaver, the last hope for infertile couples who want to have a child of their own. IVF costs quite a lot of money, but the end result - the life of a child and a full-fledged family - is definitely worth it. Sometimes, due to the peculiarities of the procedure, several children are born at once. The fact is that in order to increase the chances of a successful outcome, several embryos are transferred to the uterus at once, and sometimes several of them are successfully implanted at once.

It is a collection of several mandatory elements. To get started you need:

1. Quit smoking if you had such a sin (you were planning to do it for a long time anyway, but then a wonderful and serious reason appeared).

2. Give up alcohol.

3. Balance the diet. Consult with your doctor, in extreme cases - you can always read about the basic principles on the Internet.

The next step is mental preparation. They shouldn't be neglected. Talk to relatives, consult various doctors, enlist the support of a partner. Or only after realizing that the decision is final and irrevocable, go to the medical center. And do not forget to carefully check the information about the medical center itself before that. It is better not to go to clinics that do not have good recommendations.

What is the IVF preparation program?

So, the documents are drawn up, the payment is made, and for the spouses there comes a moment when the doctor appoints a special program that they will have to go through.

The program of preparation for the procedure of in vitro fertilization comes down to one single task: the birth of a healthy child. The program includes a large number of various tests and studies, frequent visits to different doctors, ovarian stimulation, egg maturation and transfer of an already grown embryo into the woman's uterine cavity.

The probability of pregnancy from the first attempt does not give unambiguous indicators, however, on average, statistics say that about a third of in vitro fertilization attempts end in pregnancy, which generally converges with indicators for natural conception. The probability of success depends on the lifestyle of the spouses, their health, age and other indicators.

If the first attempt was unsuccessful, do not despair, because it is possible to make another attempt after some time.

Stages of preparation for the IVF procedure within the program

The IVF preparation program includes the following steps:

1. First of all, after the examination, the doctor determines the treatment regimen for the partners and the action plan.

2. Then there is the elimination of all existing diseases in both partners, as far as possible.

3. A woman is prescribed hormone therapy.

4. At the right time, egg puncture occurs, and the man donates sperm at this time.

5. Fertilization takes place directly in the laboratory.

6. Specialists monitor the development of embryos.

7. The most viable and healthy embryo is transferred to the uterus of the expectant mother.

8. A woman begins to take hormonal drugs aimed at maintaining pregnancy.

9. A test is done to determine hCG hormones.

10. An ultrasound is performed to find out for sure if pregnancy has occurred.

11. Doctors carry out constant monitoring of the condition of the expectant mother. The woman passes all the necessary tests.

12. Delivery.

How long does it take to prepare for an IVF procedure?

Preparation for the IVF procedure includes a number of tests and procedures, treatment of identified abnormalities and diseases, avoidance of alcohol and cigarettes, and much more. In connection with such a number of prescriptions and restrictions, many patients are very interested in the question: how long does it take to prepare for the in vitro fertilization procedure? However, there is no single answer, because the preparation time for IVF is individual for each individual case; it depends on how complex the situation is, but on average the preparation phase takes from a couple of weeks to several months.

Duration of preparation for IVF

The preparatory stage is a mandatory step for both partners, except in cases where donor sperm is used for in vitro fertilization.

The main determinant of the duration of preparation for the IVF procedure is the state of reproductive health of both partners. For example, if a woman suffers from cysts, endometriosis or uterine fibroids, she will have to spend time to eliminate the foci of these diseases. You will also have to postpone the IVF procedure if rubella antibodies are not found in the expectant mother: in this case, she needs to be vaccinated, and IVF should be postponed for several menstrual cycles.

If the partner's spermogram showed not the best results, a course of treatment is also necessary. In the presence of beriberi, both partners will have, among other things, to undergo a course of treatment lasting approximately three months.

The IVF preparation program itself is designed for approximately 1-2 months.

Preparing for IVF: Getting Started

First of all, absolutely all patients, without exception, will need to completely stop smoking and drinking alcohol, because bad habits adversely affect the quality of the egg and sperm (respectively, the same spermogram will leave much to be desired).

Then you need to consult a reproductologist, gynecologist and andrologist. The woman will be sent to take a smear to detect sexually transmitted infections, and the man will have to give sperm.

The third step in the list of necessary manipulations is the delivery of all necessary tests. According to their results, the doctor will determine whether IVF is possible.

The last step will be to conduct various types of examinations: laparoscopy, biopsy and ultrasound.

Sometimes additional consultation with an endocrinologist and mammologist is required. In addition, the expectant mother will have to visit other specialists (including a dentist) in order to completely eliminate the possibility of any infections in the body.

Mandatory analyzes for both partners include:

1. Analysis of the level of hormones.

2. Various blood tests (including to find out the blood type and Rh factor), urinalysis.

Preparatory stage before ICSI

Unlike IVF, with ICSI, the embryo is introduced into the egg invasively. ICSI is usually recommended for male infertility. Preparing for ICSI takes about the same amount of time as preparing for IVF.

To prepare the body for embryo transfer, a woman is prescribed a course of hormone therapy.

A man, on the other hand, will have to donate a lot of sperm so that the specialists can ultimately choose the most viable sperm for implantation in the egg.

Transfer of the embryo into the uterine cavity

The fertilized egg is closely monitored if obvious signs of cleavage begin to appear after 18 hours. Usually already on the 5th day the embryo is ready for transfer. During this period, the embryo is in the state of the blastocyst vesicle.

Embryo transfer is quite fast, the transfer procedure takes only about 20 minutes, and the woman will experience only a little discomfort, so anesthesia is not required.

However, with all the seeming ease of the transfer procedure, it is minor errors in the process that can cause unsuccessful IVF. For example, it is important to insert the catheter correctly, because otherwise it may be clogged with mucus, together with which the embryos will exit the uterine cavity.

So, the embryo transfer is completed, and now the woman needs to stay on the couch for the next 15-20 minutes. With a successful transfer, bed rest is not necessary. However, it will be better to limit physical activity, avoid stressful situations and refrain from sexual intercourse.

Two weeks after the transfer, you can take the first pregnancy test and finally find out if the in vitro fertilization procedure was successful. If the result is positive, the woman needs to register with the antenatal clinic. Pregnancy through in vitro fertilization women are constantly under the supervision of a doctor. They are more likely to take tests and undergo various examinations than women who become pregnant naturally. The reason is that maintaining a pregnancy and carrying a child after IVF is a rather difficult task.

IVF is a big step. Weigh all the pros and cons, consult with the relevant experts and, if possible, with those who have already passed this path. Talk about the duration of preparation, the risks and likelihood of complications in your particular case, as well as the chances of success.

The main stages and rules of preparation for the IVF procedure

One of the important stages of the IVF procedure is the preparation for its implementation. The success of the procedure largely depends on how carefully and correctly the preparatory stage is carried out. At the same time, for a positive result, it is necessary not only to go through all the prescribed doctors and do all the injections, but also to prepare mentally (this applies to both partners).

Do not forget that the in vitro fertilization procedure is an extremely serious step, and the life and health of not only the child, but also the mother, depend on how everything goes. And even with total control over the situation, various force majeure circumstances can lead to failure. For example, such a side factor as a nervous breakdown of a future mother can cause a mental disorder in a baby or a miscarriage. Therefore, it is necessary for a woman to create as comfortable conditions as possible. The expectant mother should be in a warm family environment, not be left without the support of loved ones; she must feel that the child is desired by all members of the family, and be mentally prepared for a negative test result. A man should also mentally prepare for the long journey of in vitro fertilization and expect the birth of a baby.

In addition, it is necessary to consult a doctor and find out how the process of preparing for IVF goes and what is included in it. It is by no means superfluous to learn about the correct lifestyle and diet for each of the partners.

What should be the nutrition in preparation for IVF?

During preparation for the procedure of in vitro fertilization, the diet for a man and a woman should be as healthy, satisfying and varied as possible. This will not only be a step towards pregnancy, but will also help improve test results.

For men, it's simple: they should give up alcohol and cigarettes and eat less fatty foods.

But for a woman, there are a number of prescriptions:

1. It is necessary to give up weight loss and stop counting calories.

2. The diet should include as much protein as possible: eggs, cheese, fish, lean meat, chicken.

3. Food should be boiled, baked or steamed.

4. The less salt there is in food, the better. Ideally, it's best to avoid it altogether.

5. It is necessary to include more vegetables and greens in the diet, but this does not apply to cabbage, beans and corn, because these vegetables cause flatulence and inflammatory processes in the stomach.

6. You should give up fatty meat and fish dishes, spices, white bread and sweets.

In addition, women are not allowed to visit baths, saunas, take hot baths.

What tests should be done in preparation for IVF?

To determine the state of health of the spouses, you should pass a number of tests.

The mandatory list of tests for men includes:

1. Spermogram.

2. Sperm culture.

Women will have a longer visit to the doctors, because you need:

1. Get an ultrasound.

2. Make a cardiogram.

3. And a mammogram.

4. Take a blood test for cancer markers, rubella, toxoplasma and, of course, hormones.

5. Pass an analysis on the composition of microbes in the cervix.

How to start preparing for the IVF procedure?

Usually they turn to IVF when all other chances of becoming parents have exhausted themselves and proved their ineffectiveness. And yet, the IVF procedure is very costly in terms of finances, effort and time, and besides, it does not always end in pregnancy. The success of IVF depends on many factors, one of which is the correct preparatory stage.

Preparation for the IVF procedure within the protocol

Each IVF procedure is performed according to the protocol drawn up. The content of the protocol depends directly on the causes of infertility and the state of health of the spouses. Protocols are ultrashort, short and long. However, regardless of the size of the protocol, the preparation stage for the procedure is the longest, it can take approximately 25-40 days. At this stage, the task of specialists is to prepare the female body as efficiently as possible for the upcoming fertilization. In other words, it is necessary to stimulate the production of oocytes (eggs). Everyone knows that usually in one menstrual cycle, the female body produces one egg, but this is not enough for IVF, so the expectant mother is injected with special hormonal preparations that force the body to produce 5-6 eggs at a time. This is done for that. To increase the chances of fertilization the first time, because among several embryos it will be possible to choose the most viable for transfer to the uterus.

However, preparation for IVF begins much earlier than the protocol comes into force.

How to start preparing for IVF?

Preparing for IVF in general is practically no different from thoughtful preparation for conceiving naturally. There are some rules that both partners should follow:

1. A couple of months before conception, give up bad habits.

2. Try to avoid stress.

3. Watch your diet: it should be healthy and varied. Sometimes doctors recommend supplementing it with a multivitamin, which includes vitamin E and folic acid.

4. Avoid excessive exercise.

IVF preparation for men

Before the IVF procedure, a man will have to undergo a complete medical examination, which will help find the cause of infertility, because reproductive system failures are possible not only in a woman’s body. For example, various kinds of genetic disorders can become an obstacle to natural conception. Before IVF, a man will have to pass:

1. Biochemical and general blood analysis.

3. Spermogram.

4. Analysis that reveals genetic pathologies.

5. Analysis for diseases that are sexually transmitted.

The treatment that will be prescribed to the man depends on the results obtained, because before the IVF procedure, both partners should be as healthy as possible.

IVF preparation for women

The state of health of a woman before IVF is even more important, because she will have to expose her body to severe stress due to the use of hormonal drugs and bear a child. The reproductologist appoints the patient a comprehensive medical examination, which, among other things (that is, this is not even a complete list), must include:

1. Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity and pelvis.

3. Ultrasound of the mammary glands.

4. Analysis for STDs.

5. Analysis for TORCH infection.

6. Cervical smear Nasitology.

7. Analysis that reveals genetic pathologies.

8. Blood test for hormones and clotting.

If any pathologies and deviations were detected during the tests, the doctor proceeds to treat them.

Often, in the process of preparing for IVF, a woman undergoes an operation to remove the fallopian tubes, especially if obstruction has been detected, because damaged uterine appendages can become a serious obstacle to the normal course of pregnancy. In addition, a woman should take hormonal drugs for some time to bring the hormonal background to the required state.

Sexual life in preparation for the IVF procedure

This question often worries patients. Sometimes couples voluntarily abstain from intimacy for fear of harm and less chance of successful conception, and sometimes it's because of the stress of waiting for the procedure. However, experts say that it is not worth giving up sex at all. Moreover, intercourse is even beneficial in the pre-transfer period because it is a natural way to improve blood circulation in the uterus, which increases the likelihood of successful implantation. Another thing is that it is necessary to give up sexual activity in the two-week period between embryo transfer and confirmation of pregnancy. In addition, it is necessary to abstain before semen sampling in order to be able to collect a sufficient amount of it.

IVF preparation program

The preparation for the in vitro fertilization procedure includes numerous examinations and analyzes, the purpose of which is to prevent and reduce all possible risks of any complications. In addition, the preparatory stage of IVF includes the treatment of all detected diseases, quitting smoking, alcohol and other bad habits, as well as the formation of the right diet. In terms of duration, the standard preparatory stage takes about 2-3 weeks, but the period is individual for each couple.

The main stages of preparation for the IVF procedure

Preparation for the IVF procedure includes several stages:

1. General recreational activities that change the usual rhythm of life for both partners. This stage helps to increase the chance of successful conception. This includes:

Complete abstinence from alcohol, smoking, drugs;

Compliance with a balanced healthy diet that can provide the body with all the substances it needs during this period; among other things, the doctor may prescribe a special vitamin and mineral complex;

Regular walks in the fresh air, moderate physical activity;

Mandatory alternation of work and rest;

Abstinence from sexual intercourse at certain stages.

2. Complete medical examination.

This is necessary for an accurate assessment of the health status of patients. Based on the results of the examination, the doctor will determine the further development of events before the procedure begins. Spouses need:

To undergo consultations with various specialists: gynecologist, andrologist, reproductologist and endocrinologist;

Pass a series of urine and blood tests (biochemistry, general, analysis for the presence of infections and the state of the hormonal background);

Undergo hardware studies (those prescribed by the doctor): hysteroscopy, ultrasound, laparoscopy and biopsy.

Important to remember

If you decide to seek help from an IVF clinic, the contract should be signed only after there are no ambiguities and unknown details of a legal and ethical nature. After that, strictly follow the recommendations and instructions of your doctor, who will develop an individual treatment plan for you; for this, it is quite possible that you will have to change and revise your work schedule. Following the recommendations of the attending physician will help to avoid unnecessary stress and unnecessary expenses, and will also bring you closer to your cherished goal - the birth of a desired, long-awaited baby.

Analyzes at the stage of preparation for IVF

One of the fundamental stages of the IVF protocol is the delivery of tests and preparation for the procedure. Based on the results of medical research, doctors determine how ready the body of the expectant mother is for pregnancy, whether there are pathologies, illnesses, infections, what state the hormonal background and immunity are in. Sometimes after that it takes time to eliminate health problems, and sometimes pregnancy is completely contraindicated.

It is also important for a partner to be examined. Men take a smear to exclude the presence of infections of the genitourinary system, make a spermogram, donate blood for the presence of antibodies to infections. A woman has a harder time: the list of tests in this case is more impressive. A woman needs:

1. Pass a general analysis of urine and blood. Biochemistry will reveal health disorders, and the doctor will find and eliminate the causes of diseases.

2. Pass a cytology and smear on the flora. These tests allow you to determine the condition of the cervix and vagina, because even the slightest inflammation must be eliminated.

3. Make a blood test for the presence of antibodies to infections or the infections themselves. This study allows you to detect hepatitis type B and C, toxoplasmosis, herpes, syphilis, rubella, chlamydia. These infections can have a negative, destructive effect on the fetus. Rubella is especially dangerous, and if a woman has not had it before, a few months before artificial insemination, vaccination.

4. Get tested for hormones (sex and thyroid glands). Diseases of the endocrine system often become the cause of infertility. The level of certain hormones will allow doctors to select the right medicines for the period before the IVF procedure and for the first time after embryo implantation.

5. Make an ultrasound of the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries to exclude the possibility of a tumor or any developmental anomalies.

6. Determine the blood type, Rh factor, blood clotting. If an antiphospholipid syndrome is detected, characterized by increased blood clotting and, as a result, an increased risk of blood clots. In this case, the doctor prescribes special therapy.

What Happens During IVF Preparation

Proper preparation for IVF significantly increases the chances of a successful conception, so the question of what preparation for IVF includes is relevant for many couples. In general, the preparatory stage can be divided into the following components:

2. Complete medical examination.

3. Stimulation with hormonal drugs.

Before proceeding to conception, both parents need to put their health in order, as far as possible: they will have to give up bad habits, bring their weight back to normal, and, of course, cure all diseases that they have not reached their hands in any way.

In addition, it is necessary to normalize the diet. Men, for example, to improve sperm quality should eat foods rich in vitamin A (broccoli, carrots, dried apricots, oatmeal) and vitamin C (spinach, currants, green peas). In addition, a man is prescribed special drugs.

The task of women is to contribute in every possible way to the stimulation of superovulation. This requires, firstly, a set of exercises that helps to optimize blood circulation in the small pelvis. Secondly, nutrition is also very important. The diet for women should contain high protein foods and plenty of fluids, ideally 2-3 liters per day.

It is common practice to take contraceptives in preparation for IVF. The fact is that contraceptive pills reduce the risk of developing hyperstimulation syndrome and ovarian cysts, and sometimes even enhance the effectiveness of procedures.

Analyzes and examinations

During the preparation for IVF, the doctor prescribes a huge number of tests. A woman must submit:

1. Smears for oncocytology, flora, ureaplasmosis, mycoplasma and chlamydia.

2. General analysis of urine.

3. Analysis for the general hormonal background.

4. Examination for HbsAg antigens.

5. General and biochemical analysis of blood; it is also necessary to identify the blood group, Rh factor and the level of estrogen in the blood.

6. Tests for genital herpes, rubella, hepatitis (B and C), HIV.

7. Blood clotting analysis.

8. Hormonal screening.

9. Fluorography.

10. Examination by a mammologist and gynecologist.

11. Ultrasound of the internal organs of the small pelvis. This is necessary to identify cysts, if any, and determine the size of the ovaries.

A man will have to undergo the following medical procedures:

1. Spermogram.

2. Blood test for herpes infections, flora, chlamydia and mycoplasmosis.

3. Blood tests for HbsAg antigens.

4. Consultation with a urologist.

Having studied the results of tests and examinations, the doctor prescribes a stimulation protocol for the expectant mother. In this protocol, the duration and sequence of taking all the hormonal drugs necessary in this particular case are prescribed. A woman must clearly follow the instructions, because the success of the next steps directly depends on this.

The protocols are divided into:

1. Clean. Duration - 9-14 days. Only preparations containing FGS are prescribed.

2. Short. Duration - one menstrual cycle. Starts on the third day of the cycle.

3. Long. Duration - 10-15 days. Start - seven days before the next cycle. Drugs are prescribed that can improve the functionality of the ovaries.

Preparing a man for an IVF procedure

As you know, in vitro fertilization is used in cases where, due to health problems of a woman, a man or both partners, a couple cannot conceive a child naturally.

In in vitro fertilization, the man performs the same role as in natural conception. The day for conception is determined by the woman's menstrual cycle, so the collection of sperm is carried out on a strictly defined day. As a rule, a man simply masturbates to extract seminal fluid, but, if necessary, various surgical methods can be used: testicular biopsy, aspiration of the contents of the epididymis, etc. The only contraindication for IVF is the presence of hepatitis B, HIV and other hereditary diseases that can harm life and health baby.

No matter how frivolous it may seem, but the right psychological attitude is no less important than the state of health. If a man calmly and without prejudice refers to the IVF procedure, then he will face only minimal problems in the process. It is important to understand: how serious are the intentions of a man to have a child? Will a man be able to support his wife throughout the entire period? Does the procedure of in vitro fertilization run counter to the worldview and religion of a man? Will a man pull the IVF procedure financially and emotionally? The process should be started only if a man can confidently answer positively to all questions.

IVF preparation for men

For men preparation for the IVF procedure not much different from preparing for natural conception. All you have to do is follow these guidelines, and it's not difficult at all:

1. Forget about alcohol, cigarettes and other bad habits. Now you have a strong motivation for this, because the life and health of your child is at stake. In the period before conception, it is unacceptable to use drugs, alcohol, and smoke.
2. Try not to overheat. Normal viable spermatozoa develop at a temperature not exceeding 34°C. Therefore, forget about saunas, baths and even hot tubs. IVF is extremely expensive, so do not neglect these tips that will increase your chances of becoming parents on the first try. In addition, you should spend less time behind the wheel.
3. Stick to moderate physical activity. For 2-3 months before the procedure, avoid excessive physical exertion, such as strength sports, gym classes, and heavy physical work. But with all this, a completely sedentary lifestyle must be diluted with daily leisurely walks for several kilometers.
4. Make sure the underwear you wear is comfortable. For the normal maturation of spermatozoa, the most spacious underwear is best suited. From a scientific point of view, this approach, however, has not yet been substantiated, but just in case, give up uncomfortable and tight underwear.
5. Watch the frequency of sexual intercourse. The best option would be to have sexual intercourse for 2-3 months before the procedure with a frequency of once every three days, not more often. In this scenario, the quality of spermatozoa will not suffer, and the spermatozoa themselves

In vitro fertilization is a procedure that gives couples a chance to have children when infertility is diagnosed. To achieve a result, it is necessary to go through all the stages in a certain sequence established by the protocol. Before the procedure, a long preparation for IVF is required for both future parents. Therefore, in order to reduce the risk of unsuccessful attempts, it is necessary to follow all the recommendations of doctors.

Stages of IVF

Depending on the characteristics of the organism and the presence of concomitant diseases, the doctor determines how many days the preparation for embryo transfer will take. IVF stages in the program are distributed as follows:

1. Examination of a woman and preparation for the procedure.
2. Stimulation of superovulation.
3. Follicle puncture.
4. Fertilization of eggs.
5. Cultivation of embryos.
6. Embryo transfer.
7. Final step after embryo transfer.

The IVF procedure includes the listed steps, until which a woman must follow the recommendations. This will help her prepare her body for the upcoming pregnancy as early as possible. Timely control of IVF by day will allow you to control the entire process and reduce the risk of complications.

At the doctor’s appointment, a medical history is filled in, where all the data obtained during the patient’s interview, examination and after diagnosis are entered. The doctor will tell you in detail about the preparation for the IVF procedure. It includes the following:

• proper nutrition;
• taking medications;
• drinking regime;
• sports training;
• right way of life;
• vaccinations;
• treatment of chronic diseases.

The first stage of the program is the organization of a proper diet. A woman should be explained what should not be included in her diet, and what is important for the body. Fried, salty, smoked, fatty and spicy foods are excluded. It is necessary to eat in a balanced way, taking into account the daily requirement of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. A woman should eat fruits and vegetables daily to enrich the body with vitamins before IVF and strengthen the immune system.

It is not recommended to use drugs and, if possible, they should be abandoned. It is allowed to take only those drugs that increase the body's sensitivity to the substances included in the IVF program.

At the appointment with the doctor, the woman will be given recommendations regarding the use of medicines. The expectant mother must understand what to drink and how much, so as not to burden the body before stimulation. According to the IVF protocol, Tykveol and Folic acid are the medicines that must be prescribed to a woman at the preparation stage. The first one is an antioxidant. Its job is to protect the liver from the upcoming load of drugs that are needed to prepare before receiving the egg. Folic acid is classified as a vitamin to strengthen the body's defenses and improve hematopoiesis in the expectant mother. After embryo transfer during IVF, it is continued to be taken to reduce the risk of malformations.

Already at the stage of preparation for analysis, a woman should drink at least 2 liters of water. Drinking regime will cleanse the body of toxic substances. The process of stimulating ovulation with drugs puts a high burden on the body, so you need to drink plenty of water. At this stage, liquid is also needed as a means for the prevention of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (the body's response to a procedure carried out for the rapid maturation of eggs).

The first symptoms are:

• an increase in the size of the ovaries;
• swelling;
• low pressure.

This condition requires special treatment.

Sports training is a necessary component to prepare for IVF. Intensive exercise is not recommended. It is enough to perform light workouts lasting no more than 40 minutes and 4 times a week.

The right lifestyle is the key to successful in vitro fertilization. Therefore, alcohol is contraindicated for a woman, with the use of which there is a high probability of developing malformations in the fetus. This may explain why transplanted embryos do not take root. Smoking in an expectant mother reduces her body's response to stimulation. As a result, the success rate for a positive result is less by 50%.

Lifestyle includes not only a ban on alcohol and smoking. A woman needs a full sleep, which is normally 7-8 hours.

To protect the immunity of the mother and fetus, vaccination against infectious diseases should be carried out. Preliminary consultation with a doctor and his permission to perform the following vaccinations is necessary:

• flu;
• tetanus;
• Hepatitis B;
• diphtheria;
• polio.

Vaccination is carried out 2-3 months before IVF.

If you are obese, you should start losing weight. Excess body weight reduces the effectiveness of drugs that are administered for stimulation. As a result, the body may not respond to it. An embryo can take root in an overweight woman during the program, but the process of bearing a fetus will be difficult.

Before entering the IVF protocol, treatment of chronic diseases is necessary. For prevention, a woman must follow the right lifestyle and take vitamins.

A set of examinations before IVF

A woman is examined before entering the IVF protocol. Initially, the reserve of eggs is determined, which is laid down at the genetic level. With age, their number decreases, and an additional negative load is:

• operations on the ovaries;
• chemotherapy;
• radioactive exposure.

To determine the ovarian reserve, it is necessary to undergo tests to determine the level of FSH, LH, estradiol, prolactin (3-5 days of menstruation), androgen, AMH and inhibin B. In the first few days of the menstrual cycle, a study is prescribed to determine the number of antral follicles.

Be sure to take a smear on the flora from the vagina to exclude infection.

On the first day and in the middle of the menstrual cycle, the patient must donate blood to control hormone levels. An ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs is also carried out. After completion of all examinations and preparation, IVF is carried out.

A week or 10 days before the onset of menstruation, you must make an appointment with a doctor. The specialist must study all the results obtained during the examinations, and then enter the woman into the IVF protocol.

Then the patient is explained how the further maintenance of the program takes place. Initially, an individual sheet with prescriptions for medicines is filled out. It describes step by step the entire treatment regimen that she needs to go through. The doctor sets deadlines for the next visit to the examination in order to monitor the condition in the course of therapy.

Stimulation of superovulation

At this stage, hormonal drugs stimulate the maturation of eggs. For a puncture, it is possible to obtain up to 10-20 oocytes, which will develop and turn into embryos for replanting a woman. So many eggs are needed to increase the likelihood of pregnancy.

For stimulation, hormonal drugs prescribed according to a special scheme are effective. To give life to a large number of eggs, the following remedies are prescribed:

• Puregon;
• Orgalutran;
• Pregnyl.

Puregon stimulates the formation of FSH, the task of which is the maturation of eggs during the menstrual cycle. Orgalutran is used to shorten the time of taking the drug. This is achieved by blocking certain processes in the pituitary gland, which begin to produce less of their own hormones. Before the puncture, Pregnyl is prescribed to accelerate the full maturation of the ovarian follicles.

In vitro fertilization includes several types of protocols. They differ in the duration of taking the drugs. In practice, short and long protocols are most often used. There are the following types:

1. Super long, which takes up to 3 months.
2. Ultrashort protocol lasting 10 days.
3. Natural cycle, when drugs for stimulation are not prescribed.
4. Minimal stimulation in small doses.

At this stage, the woman is re-assigned an ultrasound, and, depending on the result, the dose of the drug is reduced or increased as necessary.

Puncture of ovarian follicles

Before performing in vitro fertilization, it is necessary to obtain eggs, which is performed at this stage. The patient is put under general anesthesia. A sensor is installed in the vagina, which displays a picture on the monitor screen with follicles. The puncture takes no more than half an hour, and only medium and large oocytes are taken during the procedure. The next day, for several days, the woman will be disturbed by unpleasant sensations - pains of a pulling nature in the lower abdomen.

Oocyte fertilization and cultivation

After the puncture is completed and the eggs are collected, they are transferred to the laboratory, where the embryologists separate the mature oocytes. After washing from the follicular fluid, they are placed in a nutrient medium, then transferred to an incubator until the formation of a zygote. Before this, fertilization must occur in a test tube. It is performed no later than 5-6 hours after receiving the eggs. Then the container is transferred to the incubator, where the conditions are as close as possible to the fallopian tubes. To do this, artificially maintained at a constant level:

• concentration of carbon dioxide;
• temperature;

In the incubator, all conditions are created for the penetration of the spermatozoon into the egg. It monitors timely cleaning and the content of nutrients necessary for the embryo. Compliance with all conditions allows fertilization to occur within a few hours.

After in vitro fertilization, only 90% of the eggs will be transplanted into the woman. The division of the zygote in the container begins immediately, and on the 3rd day the number of cells increases to 10. On day 5, elements are formed that will later turn into a placenta. This process should last for 5-7 days, then the embryo can be transferred to a woman. At this stage, it will begin to take root by implanting in the wall of the uterus.

Transfer of embryos to the uterus

The IVF procedure is performed step by step in the manipulation room. The transfer process takes no more than 30 minutes. Initially, a woman needs to be explained how the IVF procedure takes place. For this, an embryo transfer catheter is used along with a nutrient medium and a vaginal speculum. The whole process is under ultrasound control. After replanting the embryos, the woman must stay in the hospital for several hours. After that, the patient goes home and controls her condition on her own. The doctor will give the necessary recommendations, which symptoms should make you seek help, and when you should not worry.

The final stage after embryo transfer

What to do after the transfer of embryos into the uterine cavity? After 15 days, you need to do a pregnancy test or donate blood to determine hCG. The development of the embryo after the transfer occurs gradually with the use of stimulant drugs, but in different dosages. Therefore, before this period, you should not perform the test, because the result at this stage will be negative.

A woman needs to be explained how the development of an embryo normally occurs by day. She must constantly monitor her condition and monitor any changes. In the first few weeks, a woman may experience dizziness, headache and nausea, which is considered normal.

To alleviate the condition after replanting, a woman should know not only how IVF is performed, but also the recommendations that must be followed:

1. Avoid intercourse for 3 weeks.
2. The first 3 days need rest. Therefore, a woman should lie more and avoid sharp bends, heavy lifting and any physical activity.
3. It is forbidden to visit swimming pools, baths and saunas.
4. During this period, it is important to consider the nature of nutrition.

When, when determining the level of hCG, its concentration is high and gradually increases, then we can talk about the onset of pregnancy. Confirm conception by ultrasound.

Complications after IVF

The attending physician should explain to the patient not only how the IVF procedure takes place, but also the possible complications that occur in rare cases. These include:

1. Multiple pregnancy, which is corrected in time by puncture of the embryos. If desired, a woman can keep all the embryos.
2. Embryo development outside the uterine cavity.
3. The appearance of bleeding after a puncture during egg retrieval.

If timely diagnosis is carried out and the woman's appearance is ensured at the appointed time, then complications after IVF can be avoided.

If you can’t become a mother, then the IVF procedure makes this dream come true. After the examination and complex preparation of the body, the doctor will transfer the embryos. If the first IVF procedure ends in failure, you should not despair. Perhaps a second IVF procedure will be successful.

Assisted Reproductive Technologies – a method of providing medical care in which some or all of the stages of conception and (or) early development of the embryo (embryos) before transferring it (them) to the uterus are carried out in the laboratory.

The center can provide a photo of the embryo on the day of the transfer!

The effectiveness of the IVF procedure

Time and age are irresistible factors that significantly reduce the effectiveness of IVF.

The most desirable outcome is, of course, the onset of pregnancy and the birth of a healthy child. However, there are obstacles on the way to this goal. Each stage is of great importance for the effectiveness of the procedure.

IVF stages:

1. Full clinical examination of a married couple.

2. Stimulation of superovulation in order to obtain a large number of eggs. (The stimulation scheme is selected by the doctor individually, taking into account the preliminary examination).

3. Ultrasound and hormonal monitoring of the growth and development of follicles.

4. Puncture of follicles and obtaining eggs. (The puncture is performed under intravenous anesthesia, under the control of ultrasound research).

5. Fertilization with husband's or donor's sperm. (The patient's husband donates sperm on the day of the puncture, which is subjected to special treatment before the fertilization of the eggs).

6. Transfer of the resulting embryos into the uterine cavity. (Usually, 2-3 embryos are transferred, the remaining embryos are cryopreserved and, in case of an unsuccessful attempt, are used for subsequent transfer).

7. Support for the luteal phase, determining pregnancy and developing further tactics for managing pregnancy.

8. Prevention of hyperstimulation syndrome and miscarriage.

If there is a history of genetic diseases, pre-implantation diagnosis (FISH method) is performed - a cytogenetic study of embryos at the stage before they are transferred into the uterine cavity.

The effectiveness of the procedure and the presence of complications are negatively affected by:

Age;

Late treatment, duration of previous treatments;

Surgical interventions on the appendages and uterus;

Inadequate examination and correction of identified violations;

Irrational nutrition;

Unhealthy lifestyle, smoking, alcohol, sauna, solarium, long-term use of medications;

Electromagnetic oscillations (computers, mobile phones);

Sexual infections;

Failure to comply with all doctor's orders;

Negative emotions;

Occupational hazards;

Overweight, hypodynamia.

Remember: examination for infertility should be no more than 2 months, conservative treatment - no more than a year, surgical treatment to restore tubal patency - no more than 1 time.

When is IVF the only way to get pregnant? Is this procedure painful and how long does it take (from the first consultation to the news of pregnancy)? Specialist of the reproduction center "Line of Life" Anastasia Mokrova explained how in vitro fertilization takes place and how many times it can be done.

Anastasia Mokrova

Reproductologist, gynecologist at the Life Line Reproduction Center

1. There are cases when IVF is the only way to get pregnant and give birth to a healthy baby

The first is when a woman has both fallopian tubes missing (they were removed in previous operations due to an ectopic pregnancy, severe adhesive or inflammatory process). When they are not there, it is impossible to get pregnant naturally - only IVF.

The second case is a severe male factor, when either a chromosomal disorder is observed on the part of a man (and, as a result, a violation of spermatogenesis), or this is a late age, when stimulation of spermatogenesis will lead to nothing, or hormonal factors.

The third case is genetic. This means that the couple has severe chromosomal disorders that do not prevent them from living, but prevent them from giving birth to healthy children. In this case, an analysis is made not only for the existing 46 chromosomes that determine the genetic composition of the embryo, but also for a change in the karyotype, which for each pair can be decisive. Theoretically, such a couple can give birth to a healthy baby without intervention, but the probability of success is small.

2. IVF can help if a woman has depleted ovaries or wants to have a baby while in menopause

After 36 years, a woman is in late reproductive age (no matter how good she looks). The chance of conception is extremely reduced.

For some women, menopause or changes in the ovaries that reduce follicular reserve occur early. There is still menstruation, but the cells are no longer there, or they are of poor quality. In this case, an IVF program is carried out to obtain a healthy embryo and transfer it to the uterine cavity.

If a woman in menopause wants to become pregnant and bear a healthy child, we also resort to IVF. In this case, the egg of a healthy woman from 18 to 35 years old is taken, fertilized with the sperm of the patient's partner, and the embryo is implanted in her by IVF.

3. IVF has contraindications

There are very few contraindications for IVF, but they exist. This is a severe somatic pathology that is rare in women planning a pregnancy. Such patients with diseases of the heart, lungs, severe mental disorders usually do not reach reproductologists. However, if the disease is in remission and narrow specialists approve pregnancy planning, we work with the patient.

Oncological diseases are an absolute contraindication for stimulation for IVF. The oncologist must conclude that the patient is in stable remission.

4. IVF is possible at any age from the age of 18

According to the law of the Russian Federation, the age at which a woman can do IVF is not limited and starts at the age of 18. With age couples, the issue of pregnancy is discussed individually. Someone at the age of 50 can give birth to a healthy baby, while someone at 35 experiences difficulties.

5. The older the woman, the less likely it is to get pregnant with IVF

I have already said that after 36 years, a woman enters a late reproductive age. By the age of 40, even by IVF, the pregnancy rate is no more than 15. This is due to a decrease in the number of cells produced by the ovaries and a deterioration in their quality. For comparison, the probability of pregnancy with IVF before this age is about 70%.

6. Success in IVF is 50% dependent on the man

For the initial appointment with a reproductive specialist, I recommend that the couple come together. Based on the anamnesis, the doctor issues an individual list of examinations that a woman and a man need to undergo. Examining one woman does not make sense. It happens that a couple beats around the bush for a long time, trying to determine the problem on the part of a woman, and only then some heavy male factor turns out.

7. Short IVF protocol - the most comfortable for a couple

This is the most sparing program that requires minimal physical and material costs. At the same time, she practically does not have complications (including ovarian hyperstimulation), and she is preferred by reproductologists all over the world. Especially for women with a good follicular reserve.

According to the short protocol, stimulation begins on the 2nd-3rd day of the cycle (before that, the doctor does an ultrasound examination) and lasts about two weeks. When the stimulation is over, the reproductologist sees follicles of a certain size and prescribes a trigger drug in order to puncture on time and bring the cells to maximum maturity.

The second stage is a transvaginal puncture. On the day of the puncture, the partner must also donate sperm.

The third stage is embryo transfer. Between the second and third stages, the work of embryologists takes place, who fertilize the eggs and monitor the development of the embryos. On the 5-6th day of development, the couple is informed how many of them turned out, what quality and how ready they are for transfer. A woman can find out about pregnancy 12 days after the puncture by doing a blood test for hCG.

I note that during IVF, a woman may have more abundant discharge. It may seem to her that she is about to ovulate, in fact it is not, because the whole process is controlled by a reproductive specialist. During IVF, a woman is prescribed vitamin therapy and blood-thinning drugs to reduce the risks of hypercoagulability (increased blood clotting) and thrombosis.

8. Before and during IVF, eliminate heavy physical exertion and adjust the diet

In preparation for pregnancy, it is better for a man to give up alcohol, saunas and hot baths. When entering the IVF program, a couple is not recommended for heavy physical exertion and an active sex life - this can lead to the maturation of a large number of follicles, which will cause injury to the ovaries.

During IVF, I advise you to focus on protein foods (meat, poultry, fish, cottage cheese, seafood) and drink a lot (from 1.5 liters of fluid per day). This is to ensure that you feel as comfortable as possible this month.

9. IVF procedure is painless

You don't have to worry about this. Injections during stimulation are given with a tiny needle into the subcutaneous fat in the abdomen and may cause very mild discomfort (but not pain). As for transvaginal puncture, it is done under intravenous anesthesia from 5 to 20 minutes. Immediately after, heaviness in the lower abdomen may be felt, but under the influence of an anesthetic drug, the discomfort goes away. On the same day, the patient is allowed to go home, and the next day she can work.

10. The average percentage of pregnancy as a result of IVF is 35-40%

These figures are relevant both for Russia and for Western countries. The success of IVF depends on the age of the patient and her partner (the higher, the smaller it is), the quality of his spermogram, previous manipulations with the uterus (curettage, abortions, miscarriages, etc.). The quality of the cells also plays a role, but there is no way to know about this before IVF.

11. IVF has no side effects if you trust a competent specialist

If the patient follows all the recommendations, the only side effect is the onset of pregnancy and the birth of a healthy baby. It is important to trust a competent reproductologist. With improper stimulation, ovarian hyperstimulation, intra-abdominal bleeding, ectopic pregnancy (extremely rare if there was already a pathology of the fallopian tubes) is possible.

12. A cold without complications is not an obstacle to IVF.

If you do not take antibiotics and antiviral drugs, you do not have a high temperature, then a cold will not affect IVF in any way. The quality of cells and embryos does not worsen.

But if there are complications after SARS, then the embryo transfer is temporarily canceled. It is also not recommended for a man to take antibiotics two weeks before sperm donation.

In the past, after IVF, there were indeed many cases of multiple pregnancies. Now reproductologists all over the world recommend one embryo for transfer. This is done in order to get a healthy baby.

Multiple pregnancy is difficult for the female body, and often ends in premature birth, which is risky for children.

It is much better if the patient becomes pregnant after the second embryo transfer than immediately gives birth to twins with cerebral palsy.

14. Children after IVF are no different from children conceived naturally.

Of course, these children also suffer from acute respiratory infections, acute respiratory viral infections, they have a certain heredity, there may be somatic diseases, but they are by no means inferior to other children in physical development and mental potential.

15. There are no restrictions on the number of IVF

Usually, patients undergo IVF until the result is obtained. In this case, embryos can be used from the first program, which are frozen and stored for as long as the patient wishes. You can try again after an unsuccessful IVF attempt on the next or through the cycle. It is not advisable to wait 3,4,6 months, but I advise you to discuss with the reproductologist the possible reason for the non-occurrence of pregnancy.

16. You can freeze eggs for the future.

Many couples do this. For example, if a man and a woman in a couple are 33-34 years old, and they are planning a child by the age of 40, it makes sense to think about freezing oocytes - by this time the quality of their own cells will deteriorate.

This is also done when a woman is not sure about a partner or wants to have a child for herself in the future. Then additional stimulation is not required, it will only be necessary to prepare the endometrium and conduct an examination of the body.

17. IVF can be done for free

To conduct IVF under the compulsory health insurance program, you need to contact your doctor at the antenatal clinic in order to receive a quota based on the results of tests and indications. This is done by doctors at the place of residence. I note that in private clinics, reproductive specialists do IVF only on the basis of ready-made referrals.

18. A single woman can also go through an IVF program.

For this, donor sperm from a donor bank is used, which undergoes a thorough examination and is as fertile as possible.

19. There is a relationship between IVF and caesarean section

Often, women after IVF are given a caesarean section during childbirth. This happens because their body has already experienced a single operation, there is an adhesive process in the abdominal cavity, a somatic history. Plus, for many women after IVF, pregnancy is very long-awaited, they worry about everything and are simply not in the mood for natural childbirth.

I am for natural childbirth (this is right for mom and baby). But it all depends on the indications at 38-39 weeks of pregnancy and the mood of the woman.

He can be a wonderful professional, but will not intuitively suit the couple, you will be uncomfortable. This is a very important factor, as is the number of patients in the corridor. A doctor who sees 2-3 patients a day is probably not in high demand. If patients tell their friends about the doctor, share their reviews and return to him for subsequent children, this is an indicator of the qualifications and human attitude towards the couple.

The choice of clinic does not matter much, because absolutely different specialists can be gathered in one medical institution where IVF is performed.

The clinic may be young, but a real team works there. The price also does not play a decisive role, in this case, advertising may simply work.