In Vitro Fertilisation
(IVF)

 

 

 

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is an assisted reproduction technique that consists of the insemination of eggs with sperm in a laboratory, generating embryos that are subsequently transferred to the uterus.

This treatment has a variable success rate depending on the age and characteristics of the women or couples.

It is recommended for couples with difficulties in conceiving naturally and can help to overcome fertility problems for both men and women.

The aim of this treatment is to obtain embryos that will later be used to create a pregnancy. The process begins with ovarian stimulation and subsequent egg retrieval. These eggs are fertilised in the laboratory with the partner’s or donor’s sperm, generating embryos. The embryos are cultured until they reach a stage of embryonic development called blastocyst. This stage is usually reached 5/6 days after fertilisation. 

Once the blastocyst stage is reached, the best quality embryo is usually selected for transfer to the woman’s uterus. This is known as a fresh transfer and is carried out 5 days after the egg retrieval. If there are any embryos left over, they will be frozen for further attempts at pregnancy. 

In some circumstances (high response, refractory endometrium, presence of polyps, embryo/endometrium asynchrony…) it may be indicated to freeze all embryos and defer transfer of the first embryo. 

STAGES OF THE PROCEDURE
01 Previous Tests

Analysis and seminogram (if applicable) to assess health status and fertility.

02 Procedure

Treatment preparation visit: Organisation and explanation of the cycle, resolution of doubts and medication schedule for ovarian stimulation.

Ovarian stimulation: Administration of medication for 10-12 days to obtain the maximum number of oocytes on the day of extraction. During this stage, the patient must visit the clinic every 2-3 days for ultrasound monitoring. 

Ovarian puncture: Egg retrieval under sedation.

Embryo generation by IVF

Embryo culture up to the blastocyst stage.

Embryo transfer: Transfer of the selected embryo into the uterus. Minimally invasive procedure.

Procedure
03 Pregnancy control

Pregnancy test: Approximately 11 days after the transfer, a pregnancy test is performed.

Confirmatory ultrasound: If the test is positive, an ultrasound scan is performed at 2 weeks to confirm pregnancy.

In Vitro Fertilization is the most effective technique for making a baby arrive home.

WHO IS IT FOR?

  • This treatment is suitable for couples with difficulties conceiving naturally, including either male and female fertility problems, women with low ovarian reserve or those with ovulation problems. 
  • IVF is also an option for women without a male partner (female couples or single women) who must use donor sperm and whose characteristics make them unsuitable for less invasive techniques. 
  • It is also indicated for couples or women who have tried other methods of assisted reproduction without success or wish to benefit from higher success rates. 

SUCCESS RATES

In the case of the availability of pre-embryos suitable for transfer, according to the statistical data for the 2021-2024 period from our centre, the overall clinical pregnancy rate in the first transfer was 49.9%. This clinical pregnancy rate at the first transfer was 58.2% in women aged 35 or under, 53.7% in women aged between 36 and 39 and 37.7% in women aged 40 or over.

FAQs

Yes, you can lead a normal life during treatment, except for a few days before and after the puncture when it is recommended that you avoid sexual relations and high-intensity physical exercise. And during the stimulation you may experience abdominal distension, breast turgor and/or tiredness.

Depending on your ovarian reserve and other factors related to fertility such as a woman’s age, seminal motility, etc. more than one treatment cycle may be necessary to achieve a successful pregnancy. Consult your doctor for a personalised assessment.

No, ultra-rapid freezing techniques (vitrification) carried out by expert professionals allow a survival rate of 98-99% after thawing, so frozen embryos have a high probability of success.

Maintaining a healthy diet, taking antioxidants and vitamin supplements and moderating physical exercise can improve your overall health and reduce oxidative stress, which can be beneficial for fertility. However, a woman’s age is still a determining factor in success rates.

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