The whole process of in vitro fertilization
In vitro fertilization is a type of artificial assisted reproductive technology designed to help infertile couples achieve a successful pregnancy. The entire process includes physical examination, ovulation induction, egg retrieval, semen processing, fertilization, culture, transplantation and pregnancy monitoring. Below we will introduce the whole process of test tube baby one by one.
Physical examination and auxiliary examination
In the IVF process, physical examination and auxiliary examinations are very important. Both men and women need to undergo a series of tests and assessments to determine if they are suitable for IVF. Women need to undergo pelvic color ultrasound, fallopian tube patency examination, endometrial thickness examination, etc. Men need to undergo routine semen examination, semen liquefaction time measurement, etc. If it is found at this stage that there are circumstances that are not suitable for in vitro fertilization, such as abnormal position of the woman’s uterus, abnormal semen test of the man, etc., then other assisted reproductive technologies need to be considered.
Ovulation induction treatment
If after examination and evaluation, both parties are suitable for IVF technology, then ovulation induction treatment is required. This process involves injecting ovulation-inducing drugs into women to stimulate ovarian development and control ovarian function so that they can release multiple eggs at the same time within a certain period of time, thereby increasing the chance of fertilization. The time, dosage, and dose of ovulation induction need to be strictly controlled to avoid side effects such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
Egg retrieval and semen processing
After ovulation induction treatment, a woman’s ovaries will produce multiple eggs, and egg retrieval is required. Egg retrieval needs to be performed before a woman ovulates. It is generally performed through egg retrieval through puncture or colposcopy. Oocyte retrieval through puncture requires local anesthesia or general anesthesia. At the same time, men need to perform semen processing to screen out the best sperm in the semen to increase the success rate of fertilization.
Fertilization, culture and transplantation
The sperm after semen treatment will be combined with the retrieved egg in vitro. This process is fertilization. After fertilization, the eggs are cultured in the corresponding culture medium. This process requires controlling multiple conditions such as temperature, humidity, and pH value. In most cases, after 3 to 5 days of culture, one or two well-developed embryos are selected for transplantation. The transfer can be a single embryo transfer or multiple embryo transfers.
Summary
Through the above introduction, we understand the whole process of in vitro fertilization. IVF technology requires the use of a variety of medical technologies and requires multiple links, from physical examination, treatment, egg retrieval, semen processing to fertilization, culture and transplantation. Every step needs to be strictly controlled to ensure the success rate and safety of IVF.
