In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

by Michelle

The first miracle birth that occurred as a result of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) took place some three decades ago, back in July 1978. Since then the world has welcomed in excess of three million babies born as a result of IVF and other types of assisted reproductive discoveries.

When an egg is fertilized within the body it is referred to as ‘in vivo’, IVF is the opposite, it is where the egg is fertilized outside of the body, ‘in vitro’ meaning in glass. The actual fertilization process is performed in laboratories, where the sperm and egg are introduced to each other within the confines of a sterile glass dish.

After the egg is fertilized it is now considered an embryo, the embryo will then go through a delicate process of being placed inside the uterus. It is from this point on that nature will take its course. Successful implantation of the embryo into the wall of the uterus will be the beginning of a pregnancy.

There are many steps to take before the all important fertilization and transfer process can occur. The ovaries must be stimulated adequately which is achieved by the use of fertility drugs, the drugs are designed to promote growth of follicles in the ovaries. A much unwelcome part of IVF is the need, in most cases, for the drugs to be administered via injections which can last for almost two weeks.

Collecting the eggs involves introducing a specific type of needle into the vagina whilst using ultrasound technology for pin point accuracy. On occasion, this step of the IVF process involves general anaesthetic whilst in most other cases deep sedation is provided.
A sperm sample is scrutinized to search for the most suitable sperm for insemination after which the inseminated eggs are moved to an incubator and left for the evening. Eggs that have successfully fertilized are cultured over the following few days after which they will be placed in the uterus. Any remaining embryos that are considered to be of sufficient quality can be frozen for future use should the need arise.