Dr. Emily Johnson recently appeared on ABC Tampa Bay’s The Morning Blend to discuss the ins and outs of the IVF process and how advancements have allowed more individuals to start families successfully with just one fresh IVF cycle. Over the past ten years, innovative freezing techniques have enabled many patients to have multiple children from a single IVF cycle, significantly reducing both the cost and emotional burden associated with fertility treatments.
Understanding IVF
During her segment, Dr. Johnson clarified how IVF works: “In vitro fertilization (IVF) involves administering fertility medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs instead of the usual single egg. Typically, women release one egg at a time, but our goal is to retrieve as many mature eggs as possible. We monitor the process with ultrasounds and blood tests to time the egg retrieval, which is a quick procedure lasting about 15-20 minutes. After retrieval, the eggs are fertilized with sperm, and eventually, one or more embryos are transferred back into the uterus.”
Growing Interest in IVF
When asked about the growing interest in IVF, Dr. Johnson noted, “Absolutely! The number of IVF cycles performed in the U.S. has exceeded 200,000 annually, a significant increase from around 100,000 just a decade ago. IVF has become much more accessible and widely accepted.”
Improvements in the Procedure
She also highlighted improvements in the procedure: “Back in the mid-80s, egg retrieval involved laparoscopy and general anesthesia, which was quite invasive. Today, we can perform the procedure with ultrasound guidance, making it far less invasive for the patient and allowing for better control over the timing.”
The Retrieval Process
Regarding the retrieval process, Dr. Johnson explained that patients often no longer need to undergo multiple retrievals: “Thanks to advancements in technology, many women can go through one retrieval cycle and have frozen embryos available for future use. This way, they can have their first child and then come back for another transfer with their frozen embryos.”
When to Consult a Fertility Specialist
As for when to consult a fertility specialist, Dr. Johnson advised: “If you’re under 35, it’s reasonable to try for a year before seeking help. For those between 35 and 40, I recommend no longer than six months of trying on your own, and if you’re over 40, I suggest reaching out for an evaluation right away.”
Additional Resources
For more information or to make an appointment with a fertility specialist, you can check out this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination. Additionally, if you’re considering at-home options, you might find this artificial insemination kit helpful. And don’t forget to read about what to expect with your baby’s arrival in our post here.
Conclusion
In summary, Dr. Johnson’s appearance on The Morning Blend shed light on the evolving landscape of IVF, showcasing how advancements in technology have not only made the process more efficient but also more accessible for those looking to build their families.