In Vitro Fertilization is the process of fertilizing eggs with sperm in the laboratory (instead of inside the fallopian tube) and allowing it grow over two to five days before moving the fertilized embryo into the woman’s uterus through a simple procedure called embryo transfer.

This explains the hitherto popular term, “test tube baby” as reference to babies conceived via this method. It should be noted that though IVF is the most popular, it is not the only fertility solutions there is. It is only one of many other effective options. And it is not for everyone.

When IVF is an option

IVF becomes an option in the following situations:

• Woman with blocked or damaged fallopian tubes.
• Woman with inoperable tubes or where the tubes have been removed due to ectopic pregnancy.
• Women with endometriosis.
• Men with mild to moderate male factor infertility.
• Couples with unexplainable infertility.
• Couples with repeated failure to conceive after 5-6 cycles of Intra Uterine Insemination (IUI).

IVF Procedure

IVF treatments are customized for each individual or couple as it involves a set of protocols usually developed to fit the characteristics of the particular client as determined by the findings from the assessments, physical examination and other medical investigations.

IVF treatment therefore involves a set of carefully managed processes including:

• The administration of fertility drugs to induce ovulation
• Monitoring of the cycle
• Collection of eggs
• Then mixing of egg and sperm together outside the woman’s body in a culture dish or test tube.
• After that, any resulting embryos are left to grow and the best 2 or 3 embryos are then transferred into the woman’s womb. While any remaining embryo of good quality may be frozen for future use.

For an in-depth expose on the step by step procedures entailed in In Vitro Fertilization, kindly visit our blog page and read more on the subject.