Why would I have In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)?
In Vitro Fertilization, or IVF for short, is a procedure usually considered by women who have blocked or absent fallopian tubes, or have a type of infertility (endometriosis, unexplained fertility, ovulation disorders), or have inherited genetic diseases or a chromosomal abnormality. If you are over 35 but have not fallen pregnant, in a same-sex relationship and you want to use donor sperm, are about to have cancer chemotherapy, or if your partner has severe male infertility, you may also consider this procedure.
What are the benefits of having In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)?
Helping with fertility difficulties is only one of the many benefits IVF has to offer. Other benefits of IVF treatment are:
- Helping patients overcome a variety of fertility issues
- Can screen embryos for genetic disorders and chromosomal abnormalities, thus the healthiest embryos are selected
- Gives opportunity for non-traditional families to experience parenthood
- Decrease the chances of miscarriage
- Egg preservation
- Post-menopausal opportunities
What is the recovery time?
It is advisable that you rest after the embryo transfer. However, some women are able to return to their normal daily routine immediately after. Your doctor will likely give you a detailed recovery timeline.
How long will I need to stay in the hospital after my procedure?
You do not need to stay in the hospital after each procedure. Since IVF involves a series of procedures, you need to attend more than one appointment. The intervals of these appointments vary between two days to seven days.
How long should I expect to stay overseas after my procedure?
After the process of IVF is completed, you will need to attend follow-up check-ups to monitor your recovery and healing. Therefore, allow 12 additional days after your IVF before you go home. In total, you should expect to stay overseas for about 3 weeks for the whole procedure.
What aftercare should I take into consideration?
After embryo transfer, your ovaries may still be enlarged. It is advisable that you avoid strenuous activity to avoid discomfort. When you are having IVF, counseling is very important. This is to make sure everyone fully understands that not all IVF treatments are successful.
What’s the success rate like?
Several factors determine the success rate of IVF. These factors include maternal age, lifestyle, reproductive history, and the cause of infertility. Although the procedure works for patients in their late 30s and 40s, it typically works better in patients under the age of 35. The success rates are 40% for women under 35, 25% for women aged 36 to 41, and 4% for women over the age of 42. Furthermore, it is important to know that IVF comes with side effects, which may include nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, bloating, stomach pains, faintness, and potential weight gain.
Are there alternatives?
IVF is not the only treatment for fertility. You can also consider intrauterine insemination, lifestyle changes, and surgery.