1. Overview of the IVF process
In vitro fertilization refers to a technology that combines female eggs and male sperm outside the body, cultivates them into embryos, and then transplants them into women to allow them to implant and develop naturally, thereby achieving the purpose of fertility. The IVF process includes the following steps: ovulation induction, egg retrieval, sperm processing and insemination, embryo culture and selection, and transfer.
2. Ovulation induction
Ovulation induction refers to using drugs to stimulate the female ovaries to develop multiple mature follicles so that more eggs can be collected. Ovulation induction needs to be individually adjusted according to the woman\’s menstrual cycle and physical condition, and usually lasts for about 10-14 days.
3. Egg retrieval
Egg retrieval means that after ovulation induction, the mature follicles are punctured and the fluid (containing mature eggs) is extracted under the guidance of intravaginal ultrasound and sent to the laboratory for processing. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia and usually only takes 15-30 minutes.
4. Sperm processing and insemination
The collected semen is centrifuged to separate high-quality sperm, which are then cultured together with eggs in a petri dish to wait for natural fertilization or ICSI (Individual Sperm Injection).
5. Embryo culture and selection
After fertilization, the eggs will be cultured in the laboratory and develop into 8-cell stage embryos around the third day. At this time, PGS (whole genome screening) or PGD (single gene genetic disease screening) can be performed. and other technologies to screen them. Around the fifth day, the embryo will develop into the blastocyst stage. At this time, the quality can be evaluated and the best one or two blastocysts can be selected for transplantation into the mother.
6. Transplantation
The selected blastocyst is transplanted into the mother\’s body under the guidance of intravaginal ultrasound, usually using drugs to assist in promoting implantation. After transplantation, you need to pay attention to rest and avoid stimulating activities such as strenuous exercise to increase the success rate.
In vitro fertilization technology is constantly improving and improving. Although there are certain risks and uncertainties, it is an important reproductive choice for some couples who are unable to conceive naturally.
