In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Treatment: Steps and Modern Methods

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a process in which sperm and eggs are fertilized in a laboratory setting and the resulting embryo is transferred to the woman’s uterus. 

In Turkey, IVF treatment is provided with international standard healthcare services and advanced technology.

1. IVF Treatment Process

a. Initial Assessment

• Physical and Clinical Evaluation: Comprehensive health evaluations are performed for both partners. This includes examining the woman’s reproductive organs, the man’s sperm quality, and overall health status.

• Hormonal Tests: Various tests are conducted to assess the woman’s ovarian reserve and hormonal status.

b. Ovarian Stimulation

• Medication: Medications are used to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Typically, gonadotropins (FSH, LH) and other hormonal drugs are administered.

• Ovarian Monitoring: Ultrasound and hormone tests are used to monitor the development of the ovaries.

c. Egg Retrieval

• Ovum Pickup: Once the eggs are mature, they are retrieved via a needle guided by vaginal ultrasound. This procedure is usually performed under light anesthesia.

d. Laboratory Procedures

• Fertilization: The retrieved eggs are fertilized with sperm in a laboratory setting. Fertilization can be done through conventional insemination (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

• Embryo Development: Fertilized eggs develop into embryos and are monitored for several days. Embryo transfer typically occurs on the 3rd or 5th day.

e. Embryo Transfer

• Transfer Procedure: The embryo is transferred into the uterus using a specialized catheter. This procedure is usually painless and does not require anesthesia.

• Embryo Selection: The healthiest embryos are selected for transfer.

f. Monitoring Results

• Pregnancy Test: A blood pregnancy test is conducted approximately 10-14 days after transfer. If a successful pregnancy is confirmed, ultrasound is used to monitor the development.

2. IVF Treatment Methods

a. Conventional IVF

• Standard Method: Sperm and egg are fertilized in a laboratory environment using natural methods. Success rates depend on embryo quality and the woman’s age.

b. ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)

• Microinjection: A sperm cell is directly injected into the egg. This method is preferred in cases of low sperm count or quality issues.

c. PGD (Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis)

• Genetic Testing: Genetic tests are performed on embryos before transfer. Recommended for couples at risk of genetic disorders.

d. Donor Egg or Sperm

• Egg and Sperm Donation: Donor eggs or sperm may be used for couples whose own gametes are not suitable.

e. Embryo Freezing

• Cryopreservation: Advanced embryos can be frozen and stored for future use. This method is used when there are excess embryos during the treatment process.

3. Conclusion

IVF treatment is an effective method for addressing infertility issues, and Turkey holds a significant position in this field with its modern methods and experienced specialists. With both conventional and advanced treatment methods, couples undergoing IVF can increase their chances of having a child with high success rates. Patients choosing Turkey can benefit from world-class healthcare services and gain significant advantages in IVF treatment.