Cache Valley Utah Doctor.David.Richards@gmail.com
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a widely used fertility treatment where an egg is fertilized by sperm outside the body in a laboratory, then transferred into the uterus to establish pregnancy. IVF is commonly recommended for couples struggling with various infertility issues, such as blocked fallopian tubes, ovulation disorders, endometriosis, unexplained infertility, and male factor infertility.
IVF is a multi-step procedure that involves several stages, each designed to support successful fertilization and embryo implantation:
Ovarian Stimulation: The process begins with the woman taking hormone injections to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs, rather than the single egg typically released each month. This increases the chances of fertilization success. During this time, the doctor monitors the growth of ovarian follicles through blood tests and ultrasounds to determine the right time for egg retrieval.
Egg Retrieval: Once the eggs are mature, a minor surgical procedure called follicular aspiration is performed. Under mild sedation, a thin needle is guided through the vaginal wall to each ovary, where it retrieves the eggs from the follicles. The collected eggs are then taken to the laboratory for fertilization.
Sperm Collection and Fertilization: On the same day as egg retrieval, a semen sample is collected from the male partner or a donor. The sample is prepared to isolate the most motile and healthy sperm. The sperm and eggs are then combined in a laboratory dish to allow fertilization to occur naturally, or a single sperm is injected into each egg through a process called Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), which is often used in cases of male infertility.
Embryo Culture: Fertilized eggs, now called embryos, are carefully monitored in a controlled culture environment over several days. This period allows embryologists to assess the quality and development of the embryos, identifying the healthiest for transfer.
Embryo Transfer: After about 3-5 days, one or more embryos are selected for transfer into the woman’s uterus. This procedure is relatively quick and painless, using a thin catheter to place the embryo(s) directly into the uterine cavity. Any remaining viable embryos can be cryopreserved (frozen) for future use.
Pregnancy Test: About two weeks after the embryo transfer, a blood test measures hormone levels to confirm whether implantation and pregnancy have occurred.
IVF has become one of the most successful treatments for various infertility causes, with success rates varying based on factors like age, fertility diagnosis, and embryo quality. At Cache Valley Fertility Center, we offer a national leading IVF program, advanced IVF concierge care that includes personalized treatment. IVF often offers a viable path to parenthood even when other treatments have failed.
Located in the heart of Cache Valley, our center is easily accessible for patients throughout the region. We understand that frequent visits to the fertility center can be challenging, especially for those with busy schedules or those who live farther away. That’s why we offer flexible scheduling options and strive to accommodate your needs to the best of our ability. Our convenient location and commitment to accessibility ensure that you can receive the care you need without undue stress or inconvenience.
To learn more about IVF, you can read here.