IVF: Causes and Stages
When proven fruitless, the journey to parenthood might become a source of great stress and anxiety for the couple. All the more so when the need for IVF arises. How simple is an IVF attempt and what is the preparation that needs to be done in order to significantly increase success rates? Here at Gyn Care IVF, we have conducted a thorough report on success rates in assisted reproduction, and why it might be the best option for you.
What are the causes that lead to assisted reproduction?
Before we investigate the causes and stages of in vitro fertilization, we need to establish some facts for everyone interested: An infertile couple does not necessarily need to undergo IVF. It is proper investigation by the doctor that will determine the appropriate treatment plan. If IVF is the best option for you, our specialists will offer all the necessary information.
Upon hearing from the doctor that the couple needs to undergo IVF, panic, frustration and anxiety initially prevail. Frustration because they “failed” to conceive a child naturally and anxiety regarding the outcome of the IVF treatment. The doctor’s task is to instil calmness in the couple, a state very much needed to cope with this attempt. This is achieved first and foremost by explaining the steps needed to be taken towards solving their problem.
This way, the couple understands why each medical procedure, each test is being done and what each one offers towards the completion of their goal. A goal which is nothing short of a strong, healthy baby!
When is a couple considered infertile?
As a rule of thumb, a couple is considered infertile when they have been trying to procreate for more than a year through unprotected intercourse without success. This definition should exempt many couples from panic movements, which usually stem from personal experiences. Without delay, but also without panic, the investigation into the cause of infertility should begin. Not all fertility problems will necessarily lead to IVF. The appropriate treatment plan is determined after the causes have been investigated.
To investigate the cause of infertility in a couple, the medical team will perform different examinations on each patient. The investigation of infertility on a woman consists of the following procedures:
- Clinical examination of the woman
- Detailed vaginal ultrasound of the uterus-ovaries
- Hysterosalpingography
- Culture of vaginal secretions
Regarding male infertility, the medical staff will perform a spermogram and a sperm culture.
IVF Causes: Possible findings on infertility investigations
According to the findings of the aforementioned examinations, the reproductive specialist will determine the correct treatment plan. Possible findings after an infertility investigation include the following:
- Uterus: Intrauterine polyps, fibroids, diaphragms, bicornuate, unicornuate uterus
- Ovaries: Cysts, endometriosis
- Fallopian tubes: Hydrotubules, pyotubules, tubal mucous membrane, adhesions
- Semen: Oligoasthenospermia, teratospermia, azoospermia
It is easy to see that, according to the findings that will emerge, several potential infertility problems can be addressed directly. This can be done either by laparoscopic or hysteroscopic surgery. The correct treatment of the problem, whether the couple is eventually led to an IVF attempt, creates the right conditions for a significantly higher success rate. In Greece, success rates usually range from 25% to 45%.
What should a couple know when starting an IVF attempt?
It is important to know that the IVF treatment is designed to allow the couple to continue their everyday lives as normally as possible. The drugs administered to the woman are mostly injectable for subcutaneous use. This allows the patient to be independent in her everyday life.
The treatment does not disable the couple. Patients can engage in intercourse, exercise, fun activities and relaxation. At least, until the last stage of the attempt, namely the embryo transfer stage.
What are the stages of IVF treatment?
A complete IVF attempt takes between 14 and 27 days, depending on the treatment protocol. The stages of an IVF treatment include the following:
- Inducing ovulation
- Ovulation
- Embryo culture
- Embryo transfer
While undergoing treatment, ovulation is monitored by 2-3 vaginal ultrasound scans. Egg retrieval is performed transvaginally with the aid of a mild anaesthetic. Contrary to popular belief, heavy general anaesthetics are not preferred. In the hands of qualified doctors, this is a simple procedure.
An embryo transfer is the operation that completes an IVF attempt. It is carried out by placing the embryos in the uterine cavity with a thin, flexible catheter. This tool does not inconvenience the patient, something that allows the procedure to be completed without anaesthesia and without any special preparation.
In summary, the goal of this article is to offer a message of optimism to couples who are considering undergoing assisted reproduction programmes. Explaining how simple an IVF attempt is, but at the same time, emphasizing the preparation that must be done in order to have significantly higher success rates. Rest assured that, with perseverance and patience, eventually the coveted goal will be achieved: a baby!
Parenthood is a beautiful, life-changing journey that every person deserves to embark on. We at Gyn Care IVF are here to assist and accompany you on every step of this journey. With state-of-the-art facilities, renowned medical professionals and a passion for making your wishes come true, Gyn Care IVF ensures an affordable, but qualitative experience. Gain all necessary information about IVF in Greece by contacting us via WhatsApp or E-Mail and enjoy your stay!
