The Typical In Vitro Fertilization Cycle
1. Production of the Eggs
To carry out the IVF cycle the amount of produced egg must be increased with the help of fertility drugs which the donor or the intended mother has to take. To enlarge the number of eggs retrieved multiple follicles are necessary, thereby enlarging the quantity of embryos developed and therefore the chances for conception.
The gestational process starts with the synchronization of egg donor’s and carrier's menstrual cycles, sometimes it is necessary to use a medication called Lupron. To encourage multi-follicular development the donor will also have to take everyday shots of Fertinex, Follistim, or Gonal-f. Follicular maturing is assessed by everyday blood level and ultrasound. In order to achieve the final maturity of the eggs an injection of human Chorionic Gonadatropin (hCG) is given at a time defined by the physician. The donor’s egg retrieval will be made in the clinic on in about 35 hours after the injection.
2. Preparing the Womb
To be hormonally synchronized to the donor the carrier will have to take Estrogen and Progesterone. The receptivity of carrier's endometrium will be assessed the same way with the help of blood tests and ultrasounds. Moreover, to measure the angle and depth of the cervix uteri and uterus a catheter identical to the one for the actual embryo transfer will be used.
3. Egg Retrieval
Egg retrieval lies in eliminating the ovarian follicles and discovering the eggs in the follicular liquid under a microscope. Until it’s the time for insemination the eggs are kept in laboratory incubator. On that day the intended father or a sperm donor will have to give a sample of his sperm for egg insemination.
4. Embryo Transfer
The embryo transfer is usually carried out on the third day after the retrieval. The doctor making the transfer, the parents and the carrier will determine the status of the embryos and their quantity to be transferred. The amount depends on their quality and quantity. There is a possibility to freeze the embryos in case if they are needed in future.
5. Pregnancy Testing
In about 2 weeks after the transfer the carrier’s blood pregnancy test will be made. If the result is positive, the hospital will screen you for a couple more weeks before you may go to your own accoucheur.
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