IVF And The Family Planning Connection

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the most well-known forms of assisted reproductive technology (ART). For a variety of reasons, a woman or couple may find that conceiving naturally isn’t an option. As a result, since 1981, these individuals have had the option of turning to IVF to overcome infertility. With roughly 1.9% of all US-born babies conceived through ART methods, people need to understand the vital role IVF can play in the fertility world.

What is IVF?

IVF is just one type of fertility treatment that people can use to try to either start or expand a family. The procedure is also the most successful ART form, but is also one of the more expensive options an individual can choose. Not only is IVF costly, but the process can be somewhat invasive because of the associated hormone stimulation to boost ovulation, the added procedures of egg and semen retrieval, and the critical fertilization outside of a woman's body. Even after embryos are transferred to a woman's uterus, conception isn't guaranteed. In many cases, people may have to undergo several cycles to get pregnant.

Who can use IVF?

IVF isn't solely reserved for women with poor egg quality. Contrary to pop culture's hyperfixation on female fertility, the treatment helps a wider range of people. For example, same sex couples may turn to IVF to build a family if traditional conception methods aren't possible. Additionally, individuals who want to conceive after cancer, including men, may find that IVF is the best option. Often, women who choose to freeze eggs at a younger age may decide later on to start a family, and IVF is a great option.

The IVF process

IVF rounds are usually timed with menstrual cycles. If a woman struggles with irregular periods, fertility specialists may initially prescribe birth control to make tracking menstruation easier. Once menstruation is accurately tracked, fertility medication is usually prescribed to increase egg release ahead of ovulation. Then, egg retrieval is scheduled, where multiple eggs are harvested during ovulation. During fertilization, which occurs in the lab, the eggs and sperm are mixed together. Once embryos are formed, the embryo transfer takes place, where up to 3 embryos are inserted into the uterus. Roughly two weeks after, a pregnancy test is performed to see if IVF was successful.

What influences IVF success?

A variety of issues can influence whether IVF is successful. A person's age is usually the most important factor. Women under 35 usually have better success rates as high as 50%. By contrast, women aged 42 and up have a success rate of around 3.9%. Other factors like using fresh or frozen eggs, the quality of the facility, or whether underlying fertility issues exist will all influence IVF success. Likewise, people need to remember that most IVF participants complete 2 to 3 rounds before successfully getting pregnant.

Get educated on IVF

IVF is not a cure-all for every case of infertility or delayed conception, but is one of the core solutions for people struggling to conceive. The process can be expensive and also emotionally trying, but the superior success rates continue to make the procedure popular. If previous conception attempts have been unsuccessful, consider speaking with a fertility specialist to learn more about IVF and how the process can help people achieve pregnancy.