In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

What is in vitro fertilization (IVF)?

IVF is a technique in which eggs are retrieved from your ovaries and fertilized with sperm outside the body and then transferred back into your uterus for implantation. IVF is the most effective means of achieving pregnancy for many couples. And in some cases, such as blocked fallopian tubes, it may be the only option. 

The team at University Reproductive Associates has high success rates with IVF because the procedure allows them to overcome many factors that may contribute to your infertility. For example, IVF allows the team to observe the growth of the early embryo that may provide clues about the cause of your infertility. 

University Reproductive Associates also performs genetic testing of the embryos prior to transferring them back to the uterus, which decreases the risk of miscarriage. 

Am I a good candidate for IVF?

The team at University Reproductive Associates determines if you’re a good candidate for IVF during your consultation. The team takes an individualized approach to care and works one-on-one with you to develop a plan that provides the best possible outcomes. 

How is IVF performed?

The team at University Reproductive Associates follows many steps during an IVF cycle. The specific steps may depend on your needs. In general, your IVF cycle begins with blood work from you and your partner. The team then performs a trial embryo transfer using a hysteroscopy or hydrosonogram (water ultrasound) to assess the size and shape of your uterine cavity.

You and your partner then watch an instructional video that explains the IVF process. You also attend an injection class to learn how to properly mix and administer the hormone medication you need to take to stimulate egg production prior to extraction. 

Once you start the hormone injections, the team has you return to the office frequently for blood work and ultrasounds and when your follicles reach a certain size, your specialist provides a hormone injection to trigger final maturation of your eggs. Your specialist schedules the surgical extraction of your eggs 34 hours after the injection. 

Your eggs are inseminated the same day as the extraction. If you’re not undergoing preimplantation genetic testing, the team transfers the embryos to your uterus five days after extraction. If you’re undergoing genetic testing, your transfer occurs after the team has the results of the genetic testing. 

The team performs a pregnancy test two weeks after the embryo transfer.

To schedule a consultation to discuss IVF with the experts at University Reproductive Associates, call the office or request an appointment online today.