In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) involves procedures to help with fertility or aid in conception. During IVF, doctors retrieve mature eggs from the ovaries to be fertilized by sperm in a lab. After fertilization, doctors transfer the egg or eggs to the uterus. A complete IVF cycle takes about 21 days. Sometimes, the steps may be split into different parts, prolonging the process. 

How Effective Is IVF? 

A common concern among people trying to get pregnant is how effective IVF is. Experts agree that IVF is a highly effective assisted reproductive technology. The procedure may involve the couple's eggs and sperm or use donor eggs, sperm, or embryos. 

Sometimes, the process may involve a gestational carrier, where doctors implant the embryo in the carrier's uterus. The chances of delivering a healthy baby through IVF depend on the cause of infertility and other factors. 

When Is IVF Done?

IVF is a treatment option for genetic or infertility problems. It helps to treat fertility after the couple has tried less invasive options without positive results. Doctors usually suggest options, such as fertility drugs and intrauterine insemination, before recommending IVF. Women over 40 who are struggling with infertility can benefit from IVF. The procedure can also help women with certain conditions who find it hard to conceive normally. 

Who Is a Good Candidate for IVF?

IVF can be a good option for couples struggling to conceive. Good candidates include:

• Women with fallopian tube blockage or damage

• Patients with ovulation disorders, such as absent or infrequent ovulation

• Women who have uterine fibroids

• Women with endometriosis

• Unexplained fertility

• Patients who have undergone previous tubal removal or sterilization

• A male partner with impaired sperm function or production

• One of the partners has a genetic disorder that can be passed to the child

A woman undergoing cancer treatment can get IVF as a form of preservation. Radiation or chemotherapy can affect a woman's fertility. Women without a functional uterus, or when pregnancy can pose a health risk, can use a gestational carrier.

What Are Risks Associated With IVF?

It is necessary to understand the risks associated with IVF. These include:
 

• IVF increases the chances of multiple births.

• There is a slight risk of low birth weight or premature delivery.

• There is a risk of miscarriage, especially among older women. 

• It can lead to ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome from the use of fertility drugs.

• There is a risk of ectopic pregnancy. 

• There may be complications with the egg-retrieval process. 

• It may come with physical, financial, and emotional stress. 

Some studies indicate an increased risk of birth defects when babies are conceived through IVF. However, many experts agree that the mother's age is the major risk factor. 

Giving Birth to a Healthy Baby After IVF

Many women give birth to healthy babies after IVF. The chances of healthy pregnancy and delivery depend on various factors. They include the mother's age, embryo status, cause of infertility, and the woman's reproductive history. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, use of alcohol, certain medications, and obesity, can affect the results of IVF. 

For more common concerns and questions about IVF, contact Katie Ostrom, MD, LLC, at our office in Homer, Alaska. Call (907) 435-0555 to book an appointment today.