UNDERSTANDING IVF

WHAT IS IVF

IVF stands for In Vitro Fertilization which is the process of extracting eggs from the female, collecting sperm from the male and then  put together in a laboratory environment. As soon as fertilization occurs/an embryo is formed, they are placed into the uterus where implantation should occur most likely within 6-8 days.

The first step in IVF involves injecting hormones which aid in the production of multiple eggs each month instead of the usual. These eggs will then be tested to ascertain the readiness of egg retrieval.  

IVF may be a complex and expensive procedure but many couples use it as a mode of infertility treatment.

WHEN IS IVF USED

IVF is used in patients with;

1. Ovulation disorders, premature ovarian failure, uterine fibroids.
2. Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes.
3. Removed fallopian tubes.
4. Individuals with a genetic disorder.
5. Unexplained infertility issues.
6. Male factor infertility including decreased sperm count or sperm motility.

WHY IS IVF MISUNDERSTOOD

Some individuals do not understand the aims of an IVF and why is is a conception option, often times people say the child will be deformed, autistic or on a general abnormal. This is not so, IVF is a well structured procedure as explained already and does not affect the quality of the fetus or child to be conceived, however where there are underlying chromosomal problems with either the eggs or the sperm health problems could arise which are not factors brought about by the procedure because normally the quality of the egg and sperm are checked before the procedure takes place.

SIDE EFFECTS OF IVF

1. Mild cramping.
2. Constipation.
3. Mild bloating.
4. Breast Tenderness.
5. Passing a small amount of fluid which may be clear or blood-tinged after the procedure.

Any other side effects asides from the above mentioned should be communicated with the doctor immediately, side effects such as;

1. Mood swings.
2. Headaches.
3. Hot flashes.
4. Abdominal pain.
5. Abdominal bloating.
6. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) which is a very rare occurrence.

SUCCESS RATES OF IVF

The success rates of IVF depends on the fertility a number of factors which include maternal age, reproductive history, lifestyle factors and the cause of infertility.

However, older a woman gets the lesser her chances which doesn't mean they do not work, it only shows that the younger one is to do the procedure the better as the whole body system is still very much active and responsive.

Most couples are bothered over the quality of their eggs or sperm, however where one of the partners has either egg or sperm issues, an egg/sperm donor can donate inplace of the affected partner for the IVF procedure. And in cases where the woman is unable to keep or carry pregnancy to term by choice or by health/fertility issues, a method called SURROGACY can used (this will be treated in our next topic.)

RISKS INVOLVED IN THE IVF PROCEDURE.

1. Egg retrieval may carry risks of infection, damage to the bowel or bladder and bleeding.
2. There is a high chance of multiple births/pregnancy when fertility treatments are used.
3. The rate of miscarriage in IVF are similar to normal conception, maternal age does not affect its occurrence.
4. Nausea or vomiting.
5. Shortness of breath.
6. Decreased urinary frequency.
7. Faintness.
8. Ten-pound weight gain within three to five days.
9. Severe stomach pains and bloating.

If any of the aforementioned risks is experienced after the IVF procedure, do call your doctor right away for assistance and help.

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