Fertilização In Vitro (FIV)
IVF is a widely used fertility treatment designed to help individuals and couples overcome a variety of fertility challenges, including male factor, tubal factor, unexplained infertility, and age-related infertility. It’s also an effective option for those who haven’t succeeded with more conservative treatments.
As a SART-certified clinic, ICRM brings extensive experience in IVF, offering the most advanced treatments and procedures available. Our team is committed to utilizing cutting-edge technology and personalized care to help you achieve the best possible outcomes on your fertility journey.
The IVF Process
Ovarian Stimulation: During a woman’s natural cycle, the pituitary gland produces hormones called gonadotropins that stimulate the growth of a dominant follicle (which contains an egg) and trigger ovulation. In IVF, we administer daily subcutaneous injections of purified gonadotropins to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple follicles in a controlled cycle, typically over 10-14 days. Response to medications is closely monitored via serial pelvic ultrasounds and blood tests measuring estrogen levels.
Egg Retrieval: Once the follicles have reached the appropriate size and maturity, a "trigger" injection (usually hCG) is given to finalize egg maturation. About 36 hours later, a minimally invasive egg retrieval procedure is performed in-office under anesthesia. Using ultrasound guidance, a transvaginal needle is inserted through the vaginal wall to gently remove eggs from the ovaries.
Fertilization: In the embryology lab, the retrieved eggs are fertilized with sperm, either by adding sperm around the eggs or through advanced techniques like Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI, [link to detailed info]). The fertilized eggs are then monitored daily to confirm successful fertilization.
Embryo Culturing: Fertilized eggs are cultured for 5-6 days until they develop into blastocysts: embryos containing approximately 70-100 cells that resemble a fluid-filled sphere with a cell mass inside. These blastocysts are evaluated for quality based on their appearance and development.
Additional testing, known as Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A, [link]), can be performed on a biopsy of the trophectoderm (outer layer of the blastocyst) to ensure only chromosomally normal embryos are transferred, increasing the chances of successful implantation.
Additional Options & Technologies
Pre-Genetic Testing: For couples at risk of passing on single-gene disorders, PGT-M ([link]) can identify affected embryos before transfer, helping to select healthy ones.
Gender Selection: Using PGD allows selection of a desired gender, first applied to prevent sex-linked diseases, but also increasingly chosen for family balancing. Discuss this option with your physician to understand its implications and availability, and see the section on PGD here.
Embryo Freezing (Cryopreservation) Extra high-quality blastocysts can be cryopreserved for future use, offering flexibility for future pregnancies and reducing the need for repeat ovarian stimulation.
Our goal is to support you through every step of your IVF journey.
Whether you’re considering starting treatment or want to learn more about your options, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to learn more about IVF and its advanced options.
