Starting your IVF journey can feel overwhelming, but rest assured, you’re not alone. At Fertility Solutions, our compassionate team of experts is here to guide you through each step of the IVF process, making sure you feel informed and supported. So, how long does it take? Let’s break down the IVF process together.
Initial Tests and Evaluations
Before diving into IVF, both you and your partner will undergo essential screenings, such as:
- Ovarian Reserve Testing: This initial evaluation checks your hormone levels and may include an ultrasound to assess the condition of your ovaries, helping predict their response to fertility medications.
- Semen Analysis: If you haven’t had this done already, we’ll conduct a comprehensive semen analysis prior to starting your IVF cycle.
- Infectious Disease Screening: Both partners will be tested for infectious diseases, including HIV.
Whether you’re pursuing IVF through the NHS or privately, thorough testing is essential.
Step 1: Day One of Your Cycle
The IVF timeline kicks off on the first day of your period. Your first appointment will involve meeting with a fertility specialist who will review your medical history, address any concerns, and outline your treatment plan. They may also perform routine tests to evaluate your uterus and ovarian function.
Step 2: Consultation with Your Specialist
This initial meeting on day one of your cycle is crucial. Your nurse will help you pinpoint the start of your menstrual cycle accurately.
Step 3: Suppressing Your Natural Cycle
After your consultation, you’ll begin medication to suppress your natural menstrual cycle. This can be done through:
- A daily injection (which we’ll teach you or your partner to administer)
- A nasal spray
Your specialist will guide you on the best option and this will typically last around two weeks to ensure the next medications are effective.
Step 4: Starting Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
Once your natural cycle is suppressed, you’ll start taking FSH for about 10-12 days. This hormone is vital as it encourages your ovaries to produce more eggs, boosting your chances of having viable embryos for transfer. Many individuals opt to freeze extra embryos for future use, which can also yield high success rates.
Step 5: Monitoring Progress
Throughout the IVF process, we’ll keep a close eye on your progress through vaginal ultrasounds and blood tests, if necessary. A final hormone injection will be administered about 34-38 hours before egg collection to ensure optimal egg maturity.
Step 6: Egg Collection
When it’s time for egg retrieval, sedation will be provided for your comfort. Using ultrasound guidance, a needle will be inserted through the vagina to collect the eggs from your ovaries. This procedure is quick, lasting around 15-20 minutes, and many find it less daunting than anticipated. Recovery takes about 30 minutes, and it’s best to have someone with you afterward, as you won’t be able to drive.
Step 7: Fertilizing the Eggs
Once collected, your eggs will be combined with sperm in our lab. They’ll be monitored as they develop, and we’ll keep you updated on their progress. During this time, hormone medications will prepare your uterus for the embryo transfer.
Step 8: Transferring Embryos
After a few days of monitoring, the embryos will be transferred into your uterus using a catheter, which many describe as similar to a cervical screening. You can usually resume daily activities afterward, but it’s wise to avoid heavy exertion. Some mild side effects may include breast tenderness, bloating, or mild cramping.
Step 9: Progesterone Support and Waiting
On the day of your egg retrieval, you’ll begin progesterone supplements to support the uterine lining. This can be done via self-injection, pills, or gels. The next two weeks may feel like a rollercoaster as you await results. It’s normal to have questions during this period – if you’re curious about whether or not you can have sex or what cramps might mean, just reach out to us.
Step 10: The Blood Test
Approximately two weeks post-transfer, you’ll have a blood test to check your hCG levels. A higher level typically indicates a positive pregnancy test, and we’ll inform you of the appropriate timing for this test.
Step 11: Follow-Up After IVF
If your test is positive, congratulations! We’ll likely advise you to continue with progesterone for a few more weeks and will monitor your pregnancy closely. If the test is negative, we’ll schedule a follow-up to discuss what happened and support you through this challenging time. Remember, a single unsuccessful cycle doesn’t mean that future attempts won’t be successful.
If you want to explore more about navigating relationships after having a baby, check out one of our other blog posts here.
Summary
In summary, the IVF process is a detailed journey that varies for each individual based on personal circumstances. At Fertility Solutions, we’re here to answer any questions and support you every step of the way. For those interested in at-home options, you can also explore this artificial insemination kit for more information. For further insights into IUI success, this resource is excellent.