The stages of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) include ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, embryo culture, and embryo transfer. Each stage is crucial for the success of the treatment.
Ovarian Stimulation: Preparing the Ovaries
Ovarian stimulation involves administering fertility drugs to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. This increases the chances of successful fertilization.
Egg Retrieval: Harvesting the Eggs
Once the eggs are mature, they are retrieved from the ovaries using a minimally invasive surgical procedure.
Fertilization: Combining Egg and Sperm
The retrieved eggs are then fertilized with sperm in a laboratory setting. This can be done through conventional insemination or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI).
Embryo Culture: Nurturing the Embryos
The fertilized eggs, now embryos, are cultured in a lab for several days to ensure healthy development.
Embryo Transfer: Completing the Process
The final stage involves transferring the most viable embryo into the uterus for implantation and pregnancy.