We all know the rates at which fertility clinics are booming, especially in the past few decades. Though many blame the modern Westernized lifestyle changes and food patterns that we have adopted, it’s still a question of what is actually the reason behind rising fertility issues in recent years. But let’s not even get there for today. We all know that probably every 1 in 6 people we meet is undergoing some sort of fertility struggle which they may or may not be open about.
Of course, many modern technologies and treatments have come up to bring solutions to the current rise in fertility issues, and there are more than 2 million IVF children born till date, according to the National Library of Medicine. With the IVF space enjoying sustainable improvements over the past few decades, it has also become a go-to option among others for fertility treatment.
IVF Treatment: What is the hype all about?
You would probably be familiar with IVF even if you are unaware of other fertility treatments.
Let me tell you something: IVF is a good option for some, but also the other way around at times. That’s because of the misconception that IVF is the first and final resort for those with fertility struggles. Before opting for IVF as your only solution, even for minor infertility symptom, try adopting healthy lifestyle changes, which could work wonders in increasing your fertility rate.
Understand the entire IVF process involved, when to seek IVF treatment, and get the proper support at the right time based on what your body needs. Be aware of all this, prepare a set of questions you must ask before visiting your doctor, do your research, get clarified, and then step into the process rather than directly jumping into it.
Who needs IVF anyways?
If you have been trying for a natural pregnancy for more than a year with no positive results, have other fertility issues like PCOD, are above 35 years, have a family history of fertility struggles, etc., you should read this blog until the end. Because it’s just for you.
IVF Step-by-Step Process
IVF treatment is a savior when the natural ways fail to impregnate you. And it has also been a glimmering hope to all those couples with reproductive challenges. Let’s see the elaborative steps that would undergo during the IVF process.
Stimulating those Ovaries
Ovarian Stimulation is the foremost step in the IVF process. Here, you will take medication that encourages your ovaries to provide multiple eggs instead of one every month.
The Egg Retrieval
Under Anaesthesia, a skilled doctor carefully extracts those eggs from your ovaries. This procedure, guided by ultrasound imaging, takes around 20-30 minutes.
Swimmers take the stage.
Next goes your partner’s sperm. Once the sperm of your partner or donor is collected, it’s collected, they undergo little grooming to ensure they’re up to the challenge of fertilizing those eggs. It’s a team effort, after all.
This process takes place for those having issues with sperm release or who’ve done vasectomy in both IVF or ICSI.
Time for the Magic
Now, it’s time for the most awaited moment. The retrieved egg and sperm are fertilized in the laboratory through the conventional method or ICSI. Now that the fertilization process has happened, the fertilized egg is left to grow as an embryo inside the laboratory for around 3-5 days. Sounds fascinating, right?
Let the embryos take charge.
The final step is embryo transfer. Once the fertilized egg is grown as an embryo, the best ones are picked by the embryologist and are transferred to the uterus. Once this simple and pain-free procedure is done, you would be asked for a pregnancy test after 10-14 days to see if the embryos and the whole process have worked well.
Prep yourself before stepping in
This is the most crucial step before starting any IVF process. Preparing yourself mentally and physically. Just like prenatal care is critical for a pregnancy, pre-IVF care is equally important here. Do your research and understand your medication protocol, consult with your reproductive specialist, take those folic acid supplements, adopt healthy lifestyle modifications, go for counseling, practice mindfulness, and most importantly, plan ahead, especially regarding finances.
Post IVF Treatment- What to Expect?
Now that you have prepared well for the process and are done with the IVF procedures, what next? You should know certain things about what happens after the treatment process.
Like any other treatment, IVF has its side effects and benefits. Knowing them before the process will help prepare you for what’s in store. Here are a few things to consider after your IVF procedure.
Rest it out
Yes, though it may not be necessary, you should allow your body time to settle in. Don’t go for strenuous physical activity for at least a day or two. Mild to moderate side effects like bloating and cramping may be expected, but be mindful of their intensity. If you experience anything abnormal and unusual that affects your daily routine, immediately get in your shoes and visit your doctor on the next steps.
Cracking the code: IVF Success Rates
What most of us are constantly worried about when it comes to IVF treatment is its success rate. You may lack clarity on choosing the right fertility clinic and the treatment for you.
The overall success rate of IVF treatment is around 30-40%, with some clinics reporting success rates as high as 50% or more. But remember, success rates also depend on certain factors like your age, medical history, and health status; it might also take multiple cycles before you achieve it.
Find out the root cause of your fertility issue and address it to prevent fertility issues in the longer run. With more advancements in technology and AI, we can expect a rapid increase in innovation in the fertility space. Until then, let’s hope for the best😊
Remember, you are not just making babies; you’re rewriting a story of hope and resilience for other couples to get inspired.
