IVF

The IVF technique entails a number of stages and is a bit complex procedure. This covers the period of time prior to egg retrieval during which a person takes fertility medicine up until a pregnancy test is conducted.

Why is IVF treatment carried out?

Several different reasons might lead people to consider IVF, such as infertility problems or when one spouse has a pre-existing medical condition. When previous fertility treatments have failed or if the woman is beyond her reproductive prime, some individuals consider IVF treatment. It is a reproductive choice that is available to same-sex partners as well as to individuals who want to become parents.IVF is a possibility if you or your partner has:

Endometriosis
Low sperm count or other issues with sperm
Damaged or obstructed fallopian tubes
Complications with your uterus
Ovarian problems such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or others
A chance of passing on a hereditary illness or disease
Either a gestational surrogate or an egg donor is being used

What are the stages of IVF treatment?It might take anything between four and six weeks to finish an IVF cycle and conceive the IVF baby. The sequential IVF process includes the following:

Birth Control Pills or Oestrogen

Your doctor can recommend oestrogen or birth control tablets before you begin IVF therapy. This is used to regulate the time of your menstrual cycle and prevent the growth of ovarian cysts. It enables your doctor to manage your treatment and increase the number of mature eggs collected during the egg retrieval operation.

Ovarian Stimulation

In a normal woman, each menstrual cycle results in the production of one egg. However, several eggs are necessary for IVF. The likelihood of creating a healthy embryo improves when more than one egg is used. To boost your body's egg production, you'll be given fertility medications. You'll be prescribed injectable hormone medications during your IVF cycle to encourage all of the eggs in that cycle to develop at once and completely. In order to track the development of eggs and determine when to collect them, your doctor will do routine blood tests and ultrasounds during this period.

Ultrasound Examination

To evaluate how well the medications on your ovaries are working, a vaginal ultrasound test is performed at regular intervals. If the outcome is bad, it's possible that your doctor will suggest stopping the IVF treatment cycle. You and your doctor will decide together on this.

Egg Retrieval

The egg retrieval procedure is carried out 36 hours following your hormone IVF injections given for stimulation. Transvaginal sonography is used to help retrieve eggs from the ovaries while the patient is under general anaesthesia. Your reaction to the medications will determine how many eggs are collected, and the operation lasts 15 to 30 minutes. Around two to three hours following the treatment, you can leave for home. Sometimes there may be some stomach pain and vaginal spotting, but these symptoms usually go away in a day or two.

Sperm Collection

A sample of semen is required from your spouse. On the day the eggs are harvested, a sample of fresh semen is often taken. A previously frozen sample can also be used, though, if a fresh sample can't be made on the same day or if the spouse isn't there on the day, the eggs are collected. The sperm and the eggs will be combined by a technician in a petri dish. If it fails to result in embryos, your doctor can choose to perform ICSI.

Fertilising the Eggs

The eggs will be fertilised in the laboratory, either through ICSI or traditional IVF. The embryologist will check the eggs the following day to see whether they have been fertilised and then later to see if any embryos have developed further. It is possible to freeze additional well-developed embryos if there are more than three for eventual later transfer.

Embryo Implantation in the Uterus

This is done two, three, or five days following egg harvest. To decide if a day 3 or day 5 transfer is necessary, embryologists keep an eye on the development and viability of the embryos. The embryo is positioned in your uterus using a tiny catheter that is implanted. It takes between six and ten days for the implantation to take place if the operation is successful. A course of medicines to assist the luteal phase will be provided to you after the transfer.

Pregnancy Test

A pregnancy blood test is carried out after two weeks following extraction. In the event that the test is positive, the patient is thought to be four weeks pregnant.

Role of Injections in IVF

In IVF, injections play a pivotal role, particularly in the crucial phase of ovarian stimulation. To enhance the chances of successful fertilization, injectable hormones like follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are administered. The purpose of using such injections for IVF is to induce the development of multiple follicles within the ovaries, each containing a potential egg. This step is vital as it deviates from the natural menstrual cycle, where only one egg is typically produced per month.Once the follicles have reached the optimal size, the next crucial step involves triggering the final maturation of the eggs. IVF injections like Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) are employed for this purpose. This injection is a key element that ensures the eggs are ready for retrieval. The timing is crucial, and these injections in IVF facilitate the synchronization of the reproductive process, paving the way for a successful IVF procedure.Following the retrieval of eggs, IVF shots continue to play a crucial role in the preparation of the uterine lining for embryo implantation. IVF hormone injections like progesterone come into play at this stage, mimicking the natural rise in progesterone levels post-ovulation. This hormonal injection for IVF treatment is essential for priming the endometrium and creating an optimal environment for the successful implantation of the embryo. It is a meticulous phase, demanding precise administration to maximize the chances of a successful pregnancy.Along with traditional injections, the significance of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cannot be overlooked in the context of IVF. This technique involves the direct injection of a single sperm into an egg, bolstering the chances of successful fertilization. Though not a conventional IVF injection for pregnancy, ICSI is an integral component of the test-tube baby process, exemplifying the innovative techniques employed to optimize reproductive success.IVF injections are a pivotal element in the realm of assisted reproductive technology, offering hope to couples facing infertility challenges. From stimulating controlled egg production to orchestrating precise reproductive processes, these injections significantly enhance the chances of a successful IVF cycle. Despite temporary IVF side effects, the potential reward of achieving a desired pregnancy makes the journey worthwhile. As technology advances, the evolving landscape of IVF injections continues to open new possibilities for couples seeking to build their families through assisted reproductive technologies.

What are the potential complications associated with IVF?

IVF carries complications, just like any other medical treatment. Among the challenges are:

The risk of low birth weight and early birth is increased by multiple pregnancies
Miscarriage
Ectopic pregnancy; condition when your fertilised egg implants outside of your uterus
A rare disorder called Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) causes an excessive build-up of fluid in the chest and abdomen
Injury to the intestines or bladder, bleeding, or infection
You might encounter headaches, mood fluctuations, and stomach pain as a side effect of using fertility medications

Precautions following an IVF procedure

In general, it's best to avoid engaging in strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and other activities that include or may entail jarring motions
To increase your chances of getting pregnant, follow the doctor's instructions for taking any prescription drugs
Avoid drinking alcohol, smoking, being around cigarettes, and being around X-rays
Before taking any medication, please visit your doctor

Making the decision to undergo In Vitro Fertilization and figuring out what to do if it doesn't succeed the first time is quite challenging. In order to ascertain your best possibilities and whether IVF is the best course of action for you and your family, have a thorough discussion with our best and highly experienced fertility doctors at Indira IVF.

Treatment Details

IVF treatment is required in cases where the patients have primary infertility, that is, the inability to conceive naturally or secondary infertility, that is, the inability to have children after conceiving naturally in the past. It can be due to underlying conditions in either the female or male partner, or both. Some conditions for which IVF is recommended are as follows:

Damage or blockage in the fallopian tube

Fallopian tube is the location where fertilisation takes place in the female anatomy. A damage or blockage here would mean that the mature egg isn’t able to follow the course of journey through the fallopian tube and of the fertilised product, embryo, into the uterus.

Ovulation disorders

Ovulation is the phenomenon when a mature egg exits the ovary, ready to be fertilised by a sperm. Disorders related to ovulation would mean the absence of an egg during the fertile period hence, no embryo is formed naturally. This is a reason for infertility.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is the condition in which endometrium – the tissue lining the uterus – grows outside it. This has been found in 10-15% women in the reproductive age and impacts various fertility parameters such as less number of viable eggs (low ovarian reserve), poor quality of eggs and embryo, as well as hindrance to implantation.

Uterine fibroids

These are non-cancerous tumours that grow in the uterus of females of childbearing age. They can be found be in varied sizes and in different parts of the uterus. Higher levels of hormones oestrogen and progesterone can cause these growths. They increase the risk of pregnancy loss, and are a contributor to infertility in women.

Poor Egg Quality

Poor egg quality can be a result of a low ovarian reserve. After fertilisation at the fallopian tube, the embryo moves downwards and implants itself on the wall of the uterus. When the egg of poor quality – genetically and otherwise – implantation fails to take place since the quality of embryo is also compromised. This embryo with chromosomal abnormalities is discarded by the body and may lead to a miscarriage. Poor egg quality is a leading cause of infertility in females over 35 years of age.

Reduced fertility in females over the age of 40

The reproductive window in females spans the duration of menarche (the start of menstruation) to menopause (the cessation of menses). As one ages, and especially after the age of 35, fertility significantly decreases. This is because the quality and quantity of the eggs contained in the ovaries decreases. Once age 40 is hit, ovarian reserve is significantly reduced, and the chances of miscarriage shoot up. Since IVF treatment ensures that only the genetically healthy embryos are used, health risks due to pregnancy at an advanced maternal age can be averted.

Impaired sperm production or function

Sperm is the male gamete and a compromise in its quality and/or decrease in its quantity is a cause of infertility in men. If the number of sperms is less or their functionality is not optimal, fertilisation cannot take place and hence, being a reason for infertility in men.

Inability of sperm to survive in cervical mucus

Cervix is the tunnel-like part of the female genitalia that connects the vagina and the uterus. If cervical mucus is abnormal, it can provide hindrance to the motility of sperms or even cause their destruction. Thus, fertilisation would not occur, and would point toward infertility.

Genetic diseases

In case either or both partners have genetic diseases that may be inherited by their offspring, an IVF cycle can put checks in place to ensure that a genetically robust embryo is implanted. This can be done by tests such as preimplantation genetic testing and the more advance non-invasive preimplantation genetic testing that looks into the chromosomal content of the embryo. Thereafter, only embryos that do not have any abnormal genetic content is implanted hence, avoid passing on inherited disorders to the child.

Unexplained infertility

In certain cases, the exact cause of infertility is not easily ascertained. Such cases can be treated with IVF technique as a deep dive is done into the patients’ health, any existent conditions are treated, and then the rest of the procedure follows.

How long is the IVF process from beginning to end?

IVF is not a single treatment process but a series of procedures. Thus, it takes 6-8 weeks from consultation to transfer. But the time may vary depending on how your body reacts to each stage. The steps involved in the process are explained briefly below.

What are the steps involved in IVF treatment?

Some people do not visit the doctor due to the time taken. But it shouldn't be the case. The doctors at the fertility clinic will help you with the complication of conceiving with the IVF procedure. If you are concerned of what are the steps involved in the IVF treatment, we have explained the IVF procedure step by step below -

Step 1: Doctor Consultation

The consultation might have three stages, depending on your needs:1. The initial meeting, where the doctor will evaluate your medical history of you and your partner. It is beneficial, to be honest with the doctor. Based on the evaluation, they will suggest an IVF procedure.2. The diagnosis will be made and reviewed. They will also tell you if you should administer the stimulation medicine yourself.3. The doctor will discuss the total cost involved in the IVF procedure.

Step 2: Preparation for the Procedure (2-4 Weeks)

In this stage, you will be asked to undergo pre-IVF tests, which include –

Blood tests
Male fertility testing, including semen analysis
Ultrasound
Infectious disease screening
Uterine evaluation

These tests give complete detail about your condition and identify the main cause of infertility.

Step 3: Medication and Monitoring (Week 5)

You will begin a controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) process. The process begins with an ultrasound to evaluate your ovary and uterus. Once the doctor finds everything is good, the process is started. The COH has two parts -1. Take fertility medicinesYou will have to take fertility drugs for around two weeks. These medicines are usually taken orally or directly injected, which stimulates the ovarian follicles. This matures more eggs than they actually would in a regular cycle. The goal of the process is to mature four healthy eggs. 2. MonitoringAfter the ovary is stimulated, the doctor will ask you to visit again to monitor your eggs and the follicular development. This is the most time-consuming part and requires 5-7 visits to the doctor's clinic.

Step 4: Triggering, Egg Retrieval, and Fertilisation

The final trigger is done for egg maturation with hCG, and egg retrieval is scheduled. Then the process is divided into four parts -1. Egg RetrievalThe egg retrieval procedure is done under sedation. Though no risks are involved, you might have to take a day off from work. This is because the procedure might exhaust you.2. Combining the Egg and Sperm in LabAfter your egg is extracted, fertilisation occurs, and embryos are created. The doctors fertilise an egg in the lab. During this stage, several methods are used to increase the chance of successful pregnancy.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) - ICSI is a great option for male fertility. During this procedure, a single healthy sperm is directly injected into the egg.
Assisted Hatching - In this procedure, a tiny hole is made in the embryo's outer membrane to enhance the implantation rate after transfer.
Preimplantation Genetic Screening - This procedure ensures that healthy embryos are transferred. It can be performed on frozen embryos as well.

Step 5: Evaluation of Embryos (3-6 Days After Fertilisation)

Daily monitoring is done from the day after fertilisation to decide which embryo is healthy enough for transfer.

Step 6: Embryo Transfer

Three days after fertilisation, embryos are ready to transfer. However, some patients like to wait until they have reached the blastocyst stage (usually five days after fertilisation). The embryo is instilled via a flexible and thin tube, gently passed through the cervix opening, leading to the uterus's interior. You don't have to undergo sedation, as it is painless. But you might experience mild cramps.

What do you do to prepare for IVF treatment?

Before the IVF treatment, there are several tests and diagnosis done. Besides medications, you would need to make some lifestyle changes to ensure the IVF process is successful.

What can you expect after IVF treatment?

After implanting the embryo transfer, the process might trigger several emotions, from excitement and hope to anxiety and helplessness. Be patient because there's nothing you can do apart from waiting.

How painful is the IVF Process?

The IVF procedure is usually painless. However, with all the medication and insertion of the tube for implanting the embryos, you might feel mild cramps.

Results after IVF Procedure

During IVF, you might have to wait 7-9 days to confirm your pregnancy. Pregnancy tests are done to ensure you are successfully pregnant. During a pregnancy test, doctors measure beta-human chorionic gonadotropin hormone, which comes from the trophectoderm cells of the embryo. Once the plantation is done, the production of the hormone increases and becomes noticeable. The first test is done in the clinic. If the tests are positive, the doctor will schedule the next one. The other test is done one week after the first test. If it is positive, the doctor will schedule the ultrasound test after 2-3 weeks. IVF treatment is the most effective form of assisted reproductive technology used in infertility treatment. This is usually done with the couple's eggs and sperm or might involve the eggs and the sperm from an unknown donor. Sometimes a gestational carrier - someone with an embryo implanted in the uterus - might be used.Indira IVF is one of the most renowned infertility clinics. We use the latest technologies to help couples conceive easily. Also, with the implementation of advanced technologies and SoPs, Indira IVF strives to make IVF procedures easy and affordable. Book a Free Consultation with Indira IVF to know more about our IVF Process.

Benefits of Choosing Indira IVF for IVF Treatment

1. Pioneering Expertise : Indira IVF Treatment Centre is synonymous with excellence in reproductive healthcare. Backed by a team of seasoned IVF specialists, including 250+ renowned fertility doctors, embryologists, and counsellors, we offer comprehensive care tailored to your unique needs. Our experts leverage years of experience and advanced techniques to maximise your chances of IVF success.

2. Personalized Approach : We understand that every journey to parenthood is different. That's why we prioritize personalised care at Indira IVF. From the initial consultation to post-treatment support, our team works closely with you to develop a customized IVF treatment plan aligned with your goals, preferences, and medical history. Your comfort and confidence are our top priorities throughout the entire test-tube baby process.

3. State-of-the-Art Facilities : Indira IVF is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology, ensuring the highest standards of care and safety during the patient’s IVF journey. Our modern laboratories are designed to handle complex procedures of IVF. We also offer advanced treatment options like Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), among others. We invest in the latest advancements to offer you the most effective and efficient IVF treatment. Some of the cutting-edge technologies used at Indira IVF include –

Closed Working Chambers
World-class laboratories
Electronic Witnessing System
24*7 Monitoring System
Microfluidic Sperm Sorter Technique
Non-Invasive PGT
Advanced Incubators, etc.

4. Success Rates : When it comes to test-tube baby treatment, success rates matter. At Indira IVF, we take pride in our consistently high IVF success rates, which are a testament to our expertise and dedication. Our focus on quality care, along with our commitment to continuous improvement, ensures that you have the best possible chance of achieving your dream of parenthood through our treatment plans.

5. Comprehensive Services : Whether you're exploring basic fertility treatments or advanced reproductive techniques, Indira IVF offers a wide range of services to address various fertility challenges. From ovulation induction and intrauterine insemination (IUI) to Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) methods, we provide comprehensive solutions tailored to your specific circumstances. Our goal is to empower you with choices and support every step of the way.

6. Emotional Support : Dealing with infertility or multiple IVF failures can be emotionally taxing, and we recognise the importance of holistic support. At Indira IVF, our compassionate team provides not just medical care but also emotional support and guidance. We understand the challenges you face and are here to offer empathy, encouragement, and the best resources that will take you closer to your parenthood dream.

7. Transparent Communication : Transparency is key to building trust and confidence in your fertility treatment journey. At Indira IVF, we believe in open, honest communication at every step of the IVF treatment. From discussing treatment options and potential outcomes to addressing your concerns and questions about the medical procedure, we strive to ensure that you are well-informed and empowered to make informed decisions about your care.

8. Affordable Options : We believe that everyone deserves access to quality fertility care, regardless of financial constraints. That's why Indira IVF offer an affordable IVF treatment option without compromising on quality. Our transparent pricing, flexible payment plans, and insurance assistance make IVF treatment more accessible and manageable for our patients.

Why choose Indira IVF for treatment? Well, the answer is choosing test-tube baby treatment at Indira IVF is choosing excellence, compassion, and personalized care on your journey to parenthood. With our pioneering expertise, state-of-the-art facilities, and unwavering commitment to success, we are here to support you every step of the way. Take the first step towards realizing your dream of starting or expanding your family – schedule a consultation with Indira IVF today and embark on this transformative journey with confidence.

Do & Don'ts

Prioritise your health. Before you can work towards having a healthy baby, it is essential that you are fit first – both physically and mentally.
Manage stress and address any challenges you may have by seeking support.
Keep yourself physically active by exercising moderately.
Sleep 8 hours every night.
Keep your nutrition in check – a balanced diet is key and so is keeping track of your vitamins.
Give heed to your IVF specialist’s advice.
Take it one step at a time and be positive.

Don’ts

Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking.
Decrease caffeine intake.

How Much Does IVF Treatment Cost in India?

IVF treatment average cost in India can vary due to location, the reputation of the clinic, components of the entire IVF package, the experience of the specialist, success rate, the type of IVF procedure required, and the medications needed. On average, a single IVF cycle's cost in India can range from ₹1,00,000 to ₹3,00,000 or even more, depending on the above-mentioned factors. Couples can choose several affordable IVF treatment options after consulting IVF specialists.

Components of IVF treatment cost

The cost of IVF treatment in India generally includes the following components:1. Consultation fees: This is the fee of the doctor or the clinic charges for an initial consultation where the couple's medical history and fertility evaluation are discussed. The consultation fee can vary depending on the experience and reputation of the doctor.2. Medication cost: The cost of medications used in IVF in India can vary depending on the protocol and dosage prescribed. These medications include hormones for ovarian stimulation, medications for egg maturation, and medications for luteal support.3. Diagnostic tests and ultrasound scans: These include various tests and scans to evaluate the fertility status of both partners. It also includes blood tests, semen analysis, ultrasound scans, and other diagnostic tests.4. Ovarian stimulation medications: This is the process of stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs via medication. The cost of ovarian stimulation medications can vary depending on the protocol used.5. Egg retrieval: This is a surgical procedure where the eggs are retrieved from the ovaries using a transvaginal ultrasound-guided needle. The cost of egg retrieval includes the cost of anaesthesia, surgeon fees, and operating room charges.6. Sperm preparation and freezing: If required, sperm preparation and freezing may be done before the IVF procedure. The cost of sperm preparation and freezing can vary depending on the method used.7. Embryo culture and development: After the eggs and sperm are fertilised, the resulting embryos are cultured in the laboratory for several days before transfer. The cost of embryo culture and development includes laboratory charges and embryologist fees.8. Embryo transfer: This is the process of transferring the fertilised embryo(s) to the woman's uterus. The cost of embryo transfer includes the cost of anaesthesia, operating room charges, and the physician's fee.9. Cryopreservation of extra embryos: If there are any extra embryos, they can be cryopreserved for future use. The cost of cryopreservation includes the cost of the cryopreservation process and storage.10. Pregnancy test: After the embryo transfer, a pregnancy test is done to check for pregnancy. The cost of the pregnancy test is included in the IVF treatment cost.It's worth noting that the exact cost of IVF treatment in India can vary depending on the clinic, the location, and other factors. Therefore, checking with the clinic about their specific IVF treatment cost and what is included is essential.

Factors that can affect IVF treatment cost:

Some of the factors that can affect the IVF cost in India include:1. Type of IVF procedure required (such as ICSI, IMSI, or PGD) 2. Age and medical history of the patient 3. The reputation and location of the clinic 4. The experience and qualifications of the specialist 5. The cost of medications and other consumables 6. The need for additional procedures, such as frozen embryos transfer or testicular sperm aspiration 7. The number of IVF cycles required to achieve pregnancy.

Does health insurance cover IVF treatment cost?

Health insurance policies in India usually do not cover the cost of IVF treatment or a test tube baby. This is because IVF treatment is considered an elective procedure rather than a medically necessary treatment. However, some insurance providers may cover diagnostic tests and procedures related to IVF treatment, such as blood tests, ultrasounds, and consultations with fertility specialists.Coverage for these diagnostic tests and procedures may vary depending on the insurance provider and the specific policy. For example, some insurance providers may offer limited coverage for these procedures, while others may not cover them at all. Additionally, some insurance policies may have specific exclusions related to infertility or IVF treatment.If you are considering IVF treatment and have health insurance coverage, it is advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand the extent of the coverage. You may also want to inquire about any co-payments or deductibles you may be responsible for paying.Sometimes, your insurance provider may offer coverage for fertility treatments as part of a separate rider or add-on to your health insurance policy. However, these riders may have limitations and exclusions, so it is important to review the details carefully before purchasing additional coverage.

How can you save cost during IVF treatment?

Here are some ways to save cost during IVF treatment:

1. Compare prices and services offered by different IVF clinics

2. Look for clinics that offer discounts or package deals

3. Choose a clinic that is located closer to your home or workplace to reduce travel expenses

4. Consider opting for a shared risk program where you only pay if you achieve pregnancy.

What are the ways to ease your financial burden during IVF treatment

Here are some ways to ease your financial burden during IVF treatment:

1. Consider taking a personal loan or medical loan

2. Check if your employer offers any financial assistance for IVF treatment

3. Look for government schemes that provide financial assistance for fertility treatments

4. Consider crowdfunding or seeking help from non-profit organisations that provide financial assistance IVF treatment.

About zero-cost EMI options offered by Indira IVF

Indira IVF offers zero-cost EMI options for IVF treatment to make it more affordable for couples. Under this, patients can get IVF treatment and pay the amount in easy monthly instalments at zero interest rates. You can book a Free Consultation with a fertility specialist at Indira IVF to learn more about IVF treatment cost and options. The specialist can provide a personalised treatment plans and cost estimate, based on your medical history and requirements. To book an appointment with our IVF Doctors, call 18003092323.

What is IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)?