What is In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a treatment that involves retrieving eggs from the ovaries, fertilizing them in a lab with sperm from either a partner or donor, and then growing the embryos for up to 6 days.
How IVF works
IVF is a multi-step process that is tailored at every turn to your unique needs. You’ll be supported by a team of doctors, nurses, and embryologists from start to finish.
You will be given hormonal medications for 10 to 14 days to stimulate ovaries to mature multiple eggs (instead of just one in a normal menstrual cycle) before eggs are retrieved. Some patients may also go on birth control before taking IVF medications. You’ll be monitored closely during this time with ultrasounds and blood tests to determine when your eggs are ready for egg retrieval.
This is a simple procedure performed by our expert doctors that involves inserting a thin ultrasound-guided needle into your ovaries to retrieve eggs. You will be under conscious sedation for the whole process which takes about 20-30 minutes. Typically, the only side effect afterwards is cramping, bloating, abdominal distention, and constipation. Most women need 1-2 days to recover after the egg retrieval.
You and your doctor will discuss whether you’ll be using fresh or frozen sperm. That sperm will then be “washed,” meaning the best-quality sperm will be isolated for fertilization.
The egg is fertilized with sperm in our lab. Sperm can be placed around each egg, or a single sperm can be injected into each egg, a process called Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, or ICSI.
The developing embryos are monitored for 5-7 days. Virginia Fertility & IVF physicians will often recommend all viable embryos be cryopreserved for a frozen embryo transfer, which can take place soon after IVF is complete.
Before your embryo transfer, you will be given medications to optimize the uterus for implantation. Through careful monitoring, your doctor will determine when to transfer an embryo for the highest chance of success.
This procedure is quick and simple. Your chosen embryo is placed into the uterus with a tube that is inserted into the vaginal canal and through the cervix. Your provider may ask you to fill your bladder to help us use ultrasound on your abdomen to carefully guide the placement of the embryo. While you may experience minor discomfort, this procedure usually doesn’t require any sedation.
10 to 12 days after the transfer you will take a blood test at the clinic to determine whether you are pregnant. If you are pregnant, we will schedule a follow-up appointment. If your test doesn’t come back positive, we will offer you a follow up consultation to discuss your outcome. We understand that it can be emotionally draining to go through IVF treatment and not become pregnant, but we are committed to supporting you through every avenue available for achieving your goals.
Is IVF right for me?
IVF can be a great option for many different types of patients, whether you’re experiencing fertility issues, part of an LGBTQ+ couple, or an individual seeking parenthood on your own.
IVF might be right if you’re experiencing or have been diagnosed with:
- Tubal issues (including tube removal or sterilization)
- Male infertility
- Uterine fibroids
- Genetic disorders
- Unexplained infertility
- Some ovulation issues
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Paying for IVF
Though coverage for fertility care varies widely by insurance plan, the good news is that you have options. We are committed to guiding you through your insurance benefits, out-of-pocket expenses, and other financing options every step of the way. With Virginia Fertility & IVF you will never be in the dark about cost.
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The first procedure involved in IVF is the egg retrieval. Because it is performed under sedation, the retrieval itself should be painless. After the retrieval you may experience a couple days of cramping, bloating, and abdominal distension. The second procedure is the transfer, which does not require anesthesia. The sensation is similar to a pap smear. You may experience some slight discomfort or cramping, but most patients consider it pain-free. Both are quick procedures.
Yes! During IVF your eggs are retrieved directly from your ovaries, so it is an option for anyone with damaged, absent or tied tubes.
The lifestyle changes we recommend while undergoing IVF are similar to what’s recommended for pregnancy. It’s important to keep to a nourishing diet and abstain from nicotine, alcohol, drugs, and marijuana. Gentle exercise and plenty of sleep also supports your health during this process. If you’re taking any medications or supplements, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.