IVF Treatment - Step by Step Procedure, Success Rate and Cost

What happens in IVF Procedure?

Before proceeding with IVF treatment, it is essential to determine where exactly the problem lies. The male and female partners need to undergo specific tests so that the infertility specialist can evaluate and determine the best treatment.

Test for men for IVF

In males, the IVF doctor would conduct a general physical exam of his overall health and then examine the genitals. Specific tests in the case of men before IVF may include:

• Semen analysis – The semen is generally collected in the lab in a clean container by masturbating. The semen specimen is sent to the lab for analysis.
• Hormone testing – A man might also be asked for a blood test through which the doctor may evaluate the level of testosterone and other male hormones in his body.
• Imaging tests – In some instances, the male is suggested to undergo imaging tests such as an ultrasound or MRI of his genitals to confirm if there is a presence of any abnormalities.
• Vasography – This imaging test is done to check for any damage or blockage in the vas deferens, which is a long tube in males that connects the pelvic cavity to the epididymis. The vas deferens are responsible for transporting mature sperm to the urethra.
• Testicular biopsy – A testicular biopsy is recommended to identify any abnormalities in the male reproductive system that might contribute to infertility.
• Genetic testing – This test determines whether a genetic defect might contribute to infertility-related problems in a male.

Tests for women

Like men, women need to undergo specific tests too, which can help the IVF specialist determine how IVF or other assisted reproductive technology might work best for the couple. The tests that are commonly recommended for women before IVF are:

• Ovulation testing – This is done through a blood test that can help determine whether you are ovulating or not.
• Test for ovarian reserve – This test can help the doctor determine the number of eggs available in your ovaries for ovulation. To evaluate your ovarian reserve, the IVF specialist may require testing your hormones at the beginning of your menstrual cycle.
• Imaging tests – Often, problems associated with the ovaries and the uterus can contribute to problems for which a couple fails to conceive. Therefore, imaging tests like pelvic ultrasound are mostly recommended to identify if there is any abnormality in the uterus or the ovaries of the women.
• Hysteroscopy – In some instances, the gyne specialist or the infertility specialist may also require you to undergo a hysteroscopy. In hysteroscopy, the doctor would insert a flexible, thin, lighted medical instrument through the woman’s cervix to view inside her uterus and check if any abnormality is present.

IVF Procedure Step-by-Step (IVF Treatment Procedure)

IVF, or in vitro fertilization, is a process that helps couples have a baby when they’re having trouble getting pregnant naturally. The whole process takes about 3 weeks and comprises several steps. Even though the steps are generally the same for everyone, there can be some differences depending on the situation.

Step 1: Taking Medication

The first step involves taking either birth control pills or estrogen medication. These pills help regulate the patient’s menstrual cycle and prevent the growth of ovarian cysts. This way, the doctor can have better control over the treatment and increase the number of mature eggs that can be retrieved.

Step 2: Stimulating the Ovaries

Normally, only one egg matures and is released during a menstrual cycle. But in IVF, the doctor gives the patients hormone injections to stimulate multiple eggs to mature at the same time. This increases the chances of having more eggs available for retrieval. The dosage of the medications depends on the patient’s medical history and other factors.

During this process, the patient’s ovaries’ response is  monitored through ultrasounds and hormone level tests. When the eggs are ready, the patient receives a shot to help them complete their maturation process.

Step 3: Retrieving the Eggs

In the egg retrieval procedure, the doctor uses a thin needle guided by an ultrasound to collect the eggs from the ovaries. This is done under mild sedation to minimize discomfort. The procedure is usually performed 36 hours after the trigger shot.

Step 4: Collecting Sperm

If the patient is using their partner’s sperm, it will be collected at the same time as the egg retrieval. The sperm collection can happen in a private room at the hospital or clinic. In some cases, the healthcare facility may offer a home sample collection option. If donor sperm or frozen sperm is being used, the necessary preparations will be made in the laboratory.

The collected sperm is washed to remove impurities and ensure only the healthiest sperm are used.

Step 5: Fertilizing the Eggs

The day after the egg retrieval, the eggs and sperm are fertilized together in an incubator. They are left to develop, similar to natural fertilization. In some cases, a technique called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is used, where sperm is injected directly into each mature egg. Only mature eggs can be fertilized, as immature eggs are not ready for development.

Step 6: Monitoring Embryo Development

Over the next five to six days, the doctors carefully monitor the development of the embryos. The most viable embryos are selected for transfer, while the rest may not progress further. Suitable embryos are frozen for future use.

Step 7: Embryo Transfer

Embryo transfer is the final step where a developed embryo is placed into the uterus. The doctor ensures the precise placement of the embryo using a thin catheter and ultrasound guidance. After the transfer, the woman may need to lie down for a while to increase the chances of successful implantation.

Step 8: Pregnancy Test

Approximately 9 to 14 days after the embryo transfer, a blood test is conducted to check if pregnancy has occurred. A positive pregnancy test confirms the pregnancy. Following this, the doctor assesses the overall health of the patient, and  gives instructions for prenatal care. If the test is negative, another IVF cycle may be suggested, which the patient can choose to skip or repeat. 

How to prepare for IVF procedure?

Before going for an IVF procedure, a woman needs to be physically, mentally, and emotionally prepared for it. Preparing for an IVF procedure, can help ensure better treatment outcomes, and increased chances of pregnancy. Fertility specialists suggest specific instructions to prepare for IVF based on the patient’s overall health, and lifestyle habits. Some standard preparation guidelines, however, are as listed below: 

• Get all the diagnostic tests done: Several diagnostic tests are necessary before an IVF procedure. The patients must get all the tests including hormonal assessments, ultrasounds, etc, done before the procedure, and keep the reports handy. They are necessary to rule out genetic or other abnormalities that can lower the chances of successful IVF. 
• Follow instructions regarding medication and supplements: Fertility specialists may prescribe medications to regulate menstrual cycle as well as for ovarian stimulation. In addition, several dietary supplements may also be prescribed which the patients must take. 
• Make the necessary lifestyle changes: It is important for the patient to be healthy before the procedure, which includes maintaining a healthy weight and remaining at bay from illnesses. . For this, the patients must exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet. They must also refrain from unhealthy lifestyle habits such as alcohol consumption and smoking. 
• Be financially prepared: IVF procedure costs can be quite hefty for several people to bear. Therefore, the patients must ensure they’re financially prepared for the procedure, and arrange for funds before they seek treatment. 
• Get emotional support: IVF also accompanies some emotional implications, for which the patients must be prepared beforehand. It is advisable to talk to a partner, close friends, or family members before going for the procedure. Since not all IVF procedures end up in a pregnancy, the patients must also prepare themselves for dealing with unsuccessful treatment outcomes.

Who Should Go for an In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)?

IVF, or in vitro fertilization, is a treatment option for individuals or couples who are facing infertility issues due to different reasons that are  impacting their ability to conceive naturally. There are various factors that can affect fertility, and in general, people with the following conditions may consider IVF as a potent solution:

• Damaged or blocked fallopian tubes: If the fallopian tubes are damaged or blocked, it can hinder the natural fertilization process. IVF bypasses the need for fallopian tubes by allowing fertilization to occur in a laboratory setting.
• Infrequent, absent, or fewer eggs for fertilization: Some individuals may have difficulty producing an adequate number of eggs for fertilization to occur naturally. In such cases, IVF can help by stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, which can then be retrieved and fertilized in the laboratory.
• Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue lining the uterus grows outside of it, affecting the function of the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes. IVF can be an option for women with endometriosis, as it allows for direct placement of fertilized eggs into the uterus, bypassing any potential issues caused by the condition.
• Uterine fibroids: Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus that can interfere with the implantation process of a fertilized egg. IVF can be beneficial for individuals with uterine fibroids as it increases the chances of successful implantation by carefully placing the embryos into the uterus.
• Male fertility issues: IVF can also be suitable for couples facing male fertility issues such as poor sperm mobility (weak movement), below-average sperm count, or abnormalities in sperm shape and size. In such cases, IVF allows for the selection of the healthiest and most viable sperm for fertilization.

What to Expect After In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Procedure?

Following the final step of the IVF procedure i.e., the egg retrieval procedure, most women can go back to their normal activities right away. It is normal for patients to experience mild symptoms after the embryo transfer procedure. These symptoms can vary from person to person and may not necessarily indicate a pregnancy. A common symptom patients experience  is mild bloating and cramping, which can happen because the reproductive organs are manipulated during the transfer. This symptom usually goes away on its own after a while. Another symptom is breast tenderness, which is caused by higher levels of estrogen in the body and may make the breasts feel sensitive and sore. 

Some women also experience light vaginal bleeding, known as spotting, after the transfer. This can occur when the embryo attaches to the lining of the uterus. It’s important to tell the doctor if the patient experiences heavy bleeding or severe pain. Constipation is another common issue that some people face after the procedure. It can be due to hormonal changes or the use of progesterone supplements, which can impact bowel movements. Drinking enough water and eating foods high in fiber can help relieve this symptom.

When is IVF treatment recommended?

IVF can be a viable treatment for:

• Women who are suffering from endometriosis. 
• Women who have partially or fully blocked fallopian tubes. 
• Women who have passed her reproductive age where conceiving naturally gets tough.
• Couples who are dealing with unexplained infertility.
• Couples who deal with male factor infertility, low sperm motility or low sperm count.

What are the Benefits of IVF Treatment?

IVF, or in vitro fertilization, is widely recognized as the most effective fertility treatment available. When other methods of conception fail, IVF provides a ray of hope for individuals or couples struggling to get pregnant naturally. The benefits of IVF are numerous and can significantly improve the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy:

• Effective results when other treatments fail: IVF is often recommended when other fertility treatments have not been successful. It offers a higher success rate compared to other methods, giving individuals or couples a renewed opportunity to conceive and have a baby.
• Increased chances of conceiving a healthy baby: IVF provides a higher likelihood of achieving a successful pregnancy compared to natural conception or other fertility treatments. Through IVF, fertility specialists can carefully select the healthiest embryos for implantation, increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy and the birth of a healthy baby.
• Higher chances of conception: IVF significantly improves the chances of conception. By directly combining eggs and sperm in a controlled laboratory environment, IVF bypasses many of the obstacles that can hinder natural conception. It maximizes the chances of successful fertilization and implantation, increasing the likelihood of pregnancy.
• Parenthood for single women and same-sex couples: IVF opens up possibilities for single women and same-sex couples to experience the joy of parenthood. Through the use of donated eggs or sperm, IVF allows individuals or couples who may not have a traditional biological path to conceive a child and build their family.

All in all, IVF provides a promising solution for individuals or couples facing fertility challenges. It offers effective results when other treatments have failed, increases the chances of conceiving a healthy baby, improves the chances of successful conception, and provides opportunities for diverse individuals and couples to experience the fulfillment of parenthood.

Risks and complications involved during IVF treatment

IVF is a safe reproductive technique, and when performed under the guidance of an expert fertility specialist, there are very few chances of complications involved in the procedure. However, throughout the procedure, there might be some complications involved at different stages of the treatment, such as:

• Bruising – Mild bruising and soreness at the injection sites during ovarian stimulation is a common complication associated with IVF.
• Reaction to medications – At the beginning of IVF, the patient is given a high dose of medications for several weeks. This may cause nausea and vomiting in several women.
• Allergies – Many women complain of allergic reactions, itching, and redness at and around the injection site.
• Reaction to hormonal imbalance – Due to the medications, the woman might suffer from breast tenderness, vaginal discharge, and unusual mood swings.
• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHS) – OHS is an abnormal reaction to excess hormones. The condition occurs as a reaction to hormonal medications that stimulate the development of eggs in the ovaries. In this condition, the ovaries become painful and tend to become swollen. In rare situations, OHS can lead to kidney failure and blood clots in the ovaries.
• Multiple births – In the case of IVF, there is a risk of multiple embryos getting transferred to the uterus. The transfer of multiple fetuses increases the risk of early labor.
• Miscarriages – The rate of miscarriage in case of IVF is significantly higher than in normal pregnancies.

Case study

“We are feeling so blessed. There is no joy like parenthood.”

Ritika (name changed, 34 years old) and her husband Amrit (name changed, 38 years old) had been trying to conceive for the last 6-7 years. They consulted many doctors but could not find anyone with the kind of commitment required for the treatment process. The doctors they checked with told them that both the partners were completely healthy and they did not require any medical intervention. They trusted their words and kept trying for a baby, only to be disappointed month after month and year after year. 

Ritika used to track her ovulation and plan intercourse as the doctors guided her. Eventually, they lost hope and gave up on the plan of being parents. It seemed too much of an effort for both of them. 

“When nothing worked, we consulted a few fertility specialists in Delhi NCR who quoted us hefty amounts. We knew fertility treatments are expensive but what they had asked was way beyond our budget. We did not have that much money for a treatment,” said Ritika.

After 11 years of marriage, Ritika and Amrit decided to give one last shot for the treatment. And they approached Pristyn Care for IVF treatment. With the guidance of one of the best fertility specialists in Delhi NCR, Ritika and Amrit underwent IVF treatment and are proud, happy parents to two lovely twin daughters.

“Affordability was a big relief for us at Pristyn Care. The doctor did not give us any false hope; she only guided us with the best of her professional experience. She made us believe and hope. And things did turn into a reality so wonderfully like we never expected. Our married life has found a new meaning. We are so happy and thankful,” says the couple.

What is the cost of IVF treatment in India?

An IVF treatment cycle in India can cost anywhere between 1,25,000 to 1,80,000 (in INR). This is just an estimate based on the cost of treatment across different cities in the country.

The total cost of IVF treatment is subject to vary depending upon various factors, such as:

• Choice of treatment
• City preference of treatment hospital/fertility clinic
• Type of IVF treatment to be performed
• Consultation charges of the fertility specialist
• Cost of diagnostic tests
• Cost of freezing embryos
• Age and no. of cycles required to be performed
• Cost of donor embryos, eggs, or sperm
• Charges of anesthetists
• Cost of medicines or drugs

Consult with the best Fertility Specialist at Pristyn Care and Get the cost estimate of IVF treatment

Is In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Covered Under Insurance?

Health insurance coverage is typically offered for treatments that are considered medically necessary. Since In vitro fertilization (IVF) is not considered a medically necessary treatment, it is not usually covered by health insurance or mediclaim policies. As a result, individuals or couples undergoing IVF usually have to pay for the entire treatment themselves.

However, there are some insurance companies that now offer coverage for certain aspects of IVF. This coverage can include the cost of the treatment itself, a single cycle of IVF, hormonal assessments, medical testing, operating theater expenses, and more. The coverage provided varies among insurers, so it’s important to clarify the details when purchasing a policy. The reason behind this emerging coverage is the growing demand for infertility treatments, as IVF enables couples and individuals to experience parenthood when natural conception is not possible.

If patients can’t get insurance coverage for their IVF treatment, they can always consider other ways of managing their treatment expenses such as getting a child loan, opting for Bajaj finance schemes, and applying for a personal loan. At Pristyn Care, we put together comprehensive IVF treatment packages at cost-effective rates to let the maximum number of people avail of fertility treatments and experience the joy of parenthood. We even provide No Cost EMI offers to let patients pay in easy monthly installments. To consult with our fertility specialists for IVF treatment, dial us today!

Know more: Is In vitro fertilization (IVF) covered under insurance?

Importance of Choosing the Best Fertility Center in India

Choosing the best fertility center for IVF and other fertility treatments is more important than one can speculate. Here’s how getting IVF treatment at the best fertility centers can benefit you: 

You will receive treatment from the best fertility specialists: The top fertility centers in India house the best fertility specialists. They are highly experienced in their fields and ensure complete precision in the process, ensuring high treatment success rates. 

Their success rates are high: The success rate of good fertility centers is very high. Therefore, receiving your treatment at the top fertility centers will increase your chances of getting successful outcomes and a healthy pregnancy. 

You’ll receive treatment in a cutting-edge setup: The best fertility centers in India have state-of-the-art technology and equipment. This helps in better diagnosis and treatment. Advanced technology and techniques help improve the accuracy and effectiveness of fertility treatments such as IVF. 

They will use ethical practices:  The top fertility centers in India follow ethical and legal guidelines and ensure patient security and safety. Also, they will ensure transparency at every step of the treatment.

Low risk of complications: The best fertility centers aim at providing treatment with minimal complications. They ensure that the procedures are safe and the patient faces no complications during or after the completion of the procedure.

Diet and Lifestyle Changes after IVF Treatment

To boost the efficacy of IVF treatment, the fertility specialists ask patients to make some lifestyle changes. These lifestyle changes are necessary for ensuring better treatment outcomes and raising the chances of a successful pregnancy. Here are some diet and lifestyle changes the patients should make after their IVF procedure: 

• Eat A Balanced Diet: Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for maintaining healthy reproductive health, and keeping illnesses at bay. Patients must eat a balanced diet and include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in their meals. The diet must be rich in nutritious  foods that support the body’s needs during the recovery period.
• Include Folic Acid and Prenatal Vitamins in the Diet: The patients must take folic acid supplements and prenatal vitamins as prescribed by their healthcare provider following their IVF procedure. These supplements are essential for fetal development and can help reduce the risk of certain birth defects.
• Stay Hydrated: It is important to maintain proper hydration by drinking ample water throughout the day. Maintaining adequate hydration is essential for overall well-being and can help with healthy functioning of various body systems, including the reproductive system.
• Quit Smoking: It is highly recommended to quit smoking after IVF procedure. Smoking negatively impacts fertility, may reduce the chances of successful IVF, and can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy. 
• Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: The patients may also be advised to avoid caffeine and alcohol consumption as these substances can adversely impact fertility and pregnancy. It is advisable to reduce or eliminate these substances during the IVF treatment as well as during pregnancy.
• Exercise Regularly:  The patients must engage in regular physical activity, as recommended by the healthcare provider. Low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can help maintain overall health , and help maintain a healthy weight. But, it is important to avoid excessive or strenuous exercise that could negatively impact fertility or implantation.
• Keep Stress Levels in Check: IVF treatment can have emotional impacts on several women, and therefore,it is important to manage stress effectively. There are several ways to manage stress during this period, including mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in fun activities that a patient enjoys The patients are also advised to talk more to their friends and family members, and get their queries and concerns addressed by their healthcare providers. 
• Sleep Well: Adequate sleep is essential for maintaining a healthy body. The patients must therefore ensure they get ample sleep to ensure they’re healthy and their hormone levels are balanced. In case of issues with sleeping or lack of proper sleep, a healthcare provides must be contacted. 
• Take Doctor’s Instructions Seriously: It is important to follow the doctor’s advice and instructions. The patients must also attend all scheduled follow-up appointments, take prescribed medications as advised by the doctor, and get all the queries answered in time.