In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the most widely used fertility treatments. “In vitro” means “in glass”: eggs and sperm are brought together in a laboratory, and a resulting embryo is placed in the uterus. Understanding each stage can make the process feel less overwhelming.
Step 1: Assessment and planning
Treatment begins with a consultation and fertility assessment. Your specialist reviews your medical history and test results and explains whether IVF is an appropriate option, and if so which protocol may suit you.
Step 2: Ovarian stimulation
Hormone medication is used to encourage the ovaries to develop several follicles, each of which may contain an egg. This phase usually lasts around 10 to 14 days. You will have regular ultrasound scans and sometimes blood tests so that your team can adjust medication if needed.
Step 3: Egg collection
When the follicles are ready, a trigger injection prepares the eggs for collection. Around 36 hours later, eggs are collected in a short procedure, usually under sedation. Most people go home the same day.
Step 4: Fertilization in the laboratory
On the day of collection, the eggs are combined with sperm. In some cases a technique called ICSI is used, where a single sperm is injected directly into each mature egg. Embryologists then monitor how the embryos develop over the following days.
Step 5: Embryo transfer
A selected embryo is placed into the uterus using a thin catheter. This is usually quick and does not need anaesthetic. Any suitable remaining embryos may be frozen for future use.
Step 6: The two-week wait and follow-up
About two weeks after transfer, a pregnancy test shows whether treatment has been successful. Whatever the result, your care team will talk with you about the next steps.
Every IVF journey is different. Your plan should be explained clearly and adapted to your circumstances.
Questions to ask about IVF
- Which protocol do you recommend for me, and why?
- How many monitoring appointments should I expect?
- What are the possible side effects and risks?
- What would we do differently if the first cycle is not successful?
This article is for general information only and does not replace individual medical advice. Please speak with your specialist about your own circumstances.
