IVF, or in-vitro fertilization, is a treatment done for couples with infertility problems when other assisted reproductive treatments have not succeeded. IVF pregnancies are usually the last choice since the treatment required is quite expensive.
IVF pregnancies: Indications
IVF pregnancies are possible even for couples who are infertile. When the woman has problems with her fallopian tubes making conception difficult, IVF treatment could be the solution. IVF can also be recommended if the man is sterile or his sperm is of inferior quality. For such cases the ICSI or intracytoplasmic sperm injection is used during in-vitro fertilization. The process is to inject the sperm cell directly to the egg cell. This process is done when the sperm has difficulty penetrating the egg. Also in these cases the sperm of the partner or that of a donor may be used.
IVF pregnancies and methods involved in IVF
For the treatments to result to IVF pregnancies there is a need for healthy egg cells or ova, healthy sperm cells to fertilize the ova and a healthy uterus to contain the fertilized egg and is capable of maintaining the pregnancy. The IVF procedure is considered very costly that is why this is the last resort when other less expensive reproductive treatments have failed.
IVF also involves other methods such as the use of surrogacy or egg donation in which the woman who provides the healthy ova is not the same one who will carry the pregnancy. This means that the IVF treatment can be used even by women who are already in their menopausal stage. The oocyte donated will be fertilized in-vitro. If the fertilization process is successful, the embryo is then implanted into the uterus. The IVF can be combined with PGD or preimplantation genetic diagnosis in order to rule out genetic disorders. Another similar test has been developed which is known as PGH or preimplantation genetic haplotyping.
IVF pregnancies: After the treatment
Once the treatment is successful, women cannot help but feel excited and at the same time scared. This is because some of these women have undergone various fertility treatments and have been trying to get pregnant for many years.
These feelings are normal particularly for women who had experienced previous miscarriages. Thinking too much about negative thoughts or not being too hopeful with pregnancy may add stress to the body. It is best for these women to find someone to talk to about their feelings whether it's a friend or a therapist to help lessen the stress.
IVF pregnancies: Continued support after getting pregnant
Women who are carrying IVF pregnancies are kept on progesterone support by their doctors. The duration of the hormonal support will vary for each woman who got pregnant through IVF treatment. The woman has the option to take the progesterone supplements either by injection of progesterone oil or switching to vaginal suppositories. The doctor has to approve the method though.
During the early weeks of IVF pregnancies, doctors may at times request an ultrasound in order to verify the status and health of the pregnancy as well as check for multiple pregnancies. This is done before the expectant mothers are released to regular obstetricians.