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All you need to know about starting IVF

All you need to know about starting IVF

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is changing the game for aspiring families across Asia, with a success rate of up to 50%.

IVF is a complex process that involves several steps and is a popular method of assisted conception.

What is IVF

IVF is a medical procedure where an egg is mixed with sperm outside the body to achieve fertilization. Then, one or more successfully fertilized eggs will be put back into the mother’s uterus for implantation.

Reasons to do IVF

Parents choose IVF if other methods have failed to work, they want to reduce the risks of genetic problems, or maybe even know the child’s sex. Doctors may also recommend IVF to women who have problems with their fallopian tubes or uterus.

If you are considering undergoing fertility treatments in Thailand, click here to book your free consultation.

The detailed process of IVF

The typical IVF treatment cycle lasts about 4 to 6 weeks. Here is a list of key procedures and their time spans of an IVF cycle:

  1. Initial consultation and fertility testing (1-2 weeks): Before starting IVF treatment, couples undergo an initial consultation, during which fertility tests are conducted to determine the cause of infertility and establish the most appropriate treatment plan
  2. Pre-cycle testing (2-4 weeks): Your physician will order a panel of lab works that you can have performed. These testing results will help to decide your medication regimen
  3. Ovarian stimulation (8-12 days): The woman takes fertility medications to stimulate the production of multiple eggs in her ovaries. These medications are usually administered through injections and are taken for 8-12 days
  4. Monitoring (8-12 days): During ovarian stimulation, the woman’s response to the medications is closely monitored using ultrasound and blood tests to track the development and maturation of the eggs. This monitoring is done every 2-3 days until the eggs are ready for retrieval
  5. Egg retrieval (30-60 minutes): When the eggs are mature, a minor surgical procedure called egg retrieval is performed. The procedure involves using a needle guided by ultrasound to remove the eggs from the ovaries. This process usually takes about 30-60 minutes and is performed under sedation or general anesthesia
  6. Fertilization and embryo development (3-5 days): The retrieved eggs are combined with sperm in the laboratory to facilitate fertilization. After fertilization, the resulting embryos are cultured for 3-5 days to reach the appropriate developmental stage (blastocyst stage) for transfer
  7. Embryo transfer (30 minutes): The best quality embryo(s) are selected and transferred into the woman’s uterus using a thin catheter. This is a relatively quick procedure, usually taking about 30 minutes, and is performed under ultrasound guidance
  8. Luteal phase support (2 weeks): Following embryo transfer, the woman takes progesterone supplements to support the lining of the uterus and facilitate implantation. This support continues until the pregnancy test is performed, approximately two weeks after the embryo transfer
  9. Pregnancy test (2 weeks after embryo transfer): A blood test is conducted to measure the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which indicates whether the IVF cycle has resulted in pregnancy. If the pregnancy is successful, your doctor will likely prescribe pregnancy support supplements for up to 10-12 weeks

Please note that the time spans provided are approximate and may vary depending on individual circumstances, clinic protocols, and other factors. Also, some patients may require additional procedures like preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) depending on their specific fertility issues.

Risks of IVF

IVF is a delicate procedure that involves many steps. The risks are specific to an individual’s anatomy. Consulting with your doctor for detailed risks and explanations is necessary to have a clear idea of what to expect. However, here are a few general risks you should know:

  • Multiple pregnancies: It is more likely to have twins or triplets if more than one embryo is put back into the uterus
  • Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: The fertility medication taken as part of the procedure can cause swelling of the ovaries, leading to bloating and mild abdominal cramps
  • Procedural complications: Egg-retrieval procedures can cause infection or tearing of vaginal tissue with bleeding

Benefits of IVF

Some of the notable benefits of IVF are:

  • Genetics screening: IVF enables chromosomal screening and removal of genetic disorders. So, parents who have a history of genetic diseases can significantly reduce the risks of transferring it to their children 

Fertility preservation: IVF offers the opportunity to freeze the extra embryos or unfertilized eggs — this is very helpful for older women who have low egg counts or did not succeed in the first cycle

IVF success rate by age per cycle (estimates):

  • 29% for women aged under 35
  • 23% for women aged between 35-37
  • 9% for women aged between 40-42
  • 3% for women aged between 43-44

Studies have shown that doing 3 cycles of IVF increases the chances of a successful pregnancy to 50%.

IVF in Thailand

Thailand has become a highly sought-after destination for families considering in vitro fertilization (IVF) due to its combination of advanced medical technology, cost-effectiveness, and welcoming legal environment. The country’s fertility clinics are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by medical professionals who are often trained internationally, ensuring high standards of care and expertise.

Compared to the 5 top leading destinations for couples, the costs associated with IVF procedures in Thailand are relatively low, considering the high quality of care and professional services, making it an economically viable option for many. Additionally, Thailand’s regulations surrounding IVF are relatively accommodating, allowing for a broad range of services including those for international patients. This welcoming approach extends to the country’s rich cultural heritage and beautiful settings, which provide a comforting and relaxing environment for families undergoing the emotional and sometimes stressful journey of IVF.

If you are interested in performing IVF in Thailand, book a free consultation here.

Medical check:

 Dr. Sirichet Anekpornwattana

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