The process of in vitro fertilization
Release time : 06/13/2025 09:30:02
Women who have been infertile for a long time often choose to undergo IVF under the guidance of doctors. But what is the detailed process of IVF? Is the fertilization process really taking place in the test tubes? How does the fertilized egg reach the mother's body? Does IVF truly result in babies with lower IQ than those born naturally? In the "IVF Process" section, our editors at Momnet have compiled a clear and detailed process, expert answers to this question, and practical experiences from moms undergoing IVF, for your reference.
The in vitro fertilization (IVF) process involves six steps from the initial stimulation of ovulation to the final pregnancy confirmation.
1. For couples planning to conceive through in vitro fertilization (IVF), the female needs to undergo ovulation induction therapy first.
This is because not every egg can be fertilized, and not every fertilized egg will develop into a viable embryo. Therefore, in order to ensure the availability of embryos for transplantation, it is necessary to stimulate ovulation in women.
Specifically, the application of ovulation-inducing agents begins on the 2nd day of the menstrual cycle or when the results of reproductive hormone and uterine-ovarian ultrasound examinations meet the required standards for women.
Based on ultrasound monitoring and serum hormone testing results, the doctor determines the condition of ovarian follicle growth and decides whether to adjust the dosage of ovulation-inducing drugs.
When the follicle matures, hCG injections are administered to promote final maturation of the ovum.
Usually, the egg is taken 36-38 hours after HCG injection.
2. The egg collection procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance using a special catheter to puncture the mature follicles through the vagina and retrieve the eggs.
Oocyte retrieval is usually performed under intravenous anesthesia, so women do not feel the pain of the procedure.
3. In vitro Fertilization (IVF): When the female retrieves her eggs, the male performs his sperm retrieval.
After special washing, the semen and egg are placed in special culture medium for natural combination.
That's what we call conventional fertilization.
4. After fertilization, a very fine embryo transfer catheter is used to insert the best embryo into the uterus through the cervix. The number of transferred embryos is determined based on age, embryo quality, and past IVF outcomes, generally involving the transfer of 2-3 embryos.
In recent years, in order to reduce the rate of multiple pregnancies, some centers have opted for single embryo transfers or up to two embryos at a time.
Since the embryo transfer catheter is very fine and the procedure is performed with care, patients usually experience no discomfort.
5. Luteal phase support is commonly required in women undergoing oocyte retrieval due to the use of Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH) agonists/antagonists and ovulation induction agents, as well as the loss of follicular granulosa cells resulting from oocyte retrieval. During the oocyte retrieval cycle, there is often a deficiency in luteal function, necessitating the administration of progesterone and/or chorionic gonadotropin for luteal supplementation/support.
If pregnancy does not occur, cease the administration of progesterone and await menstruation.
If pregnancy is confirmed, continue with progesterone until the fetal heartbeat is seen by ultrasound 3 weeks later.
6. The confirmation of pregnancy is determined by measuring serum hCG 14 days after embryo transfer.
At 21 days after embryo transfer, a serum hCG test was performed to assess the development of the embryo.
At 30 days post-embryo transfer, an intrauterine pregnancy is confirmed by transvaginal ultrasonography to determine the presence of fetal heartbeat.
Is the process of in vitro fertilization painful? The so-called test tube baby is not actually a baby cultivated in vitro, but refers to the process of taking out the egg and sperm separately, fertilizing them in a test tube, and then transferring the fertilized egg back into the mother's uterus to develop into a fetus.
As such, many female friends have started to ponder: Is the process of in vitro fertilization painful? Let's take a look at it together.
During the in vitro fertilization process, there will not be significant discomfort. The pain associated with the egg collection procedure may be felt, but the doctor will administer appropriate doses of sedatives and analgesics to ensure that it is bearable, making the patient feel no fear.
Throughout the entire process, it is crucial for patients to maintain a positive mindset, as this is more conducive to enhancing the success rate of in vitro fertilization.
How long does the process of in vitro fertilization take? The process of in vitro fertilization (IVF) can take up to several weeks, as it involves multiple steps. First, a few eggs and sperm are collected for fertilization, which then results in the formation of embryos. These embryos are then implanted into the uterus to grow and develop within the womb.
So, how long does the IVF process take? Let's take a look at it together.
The duration of the in vitro fertilization process is closely related to the patient's specific circumstances, medication protocols, and the expertise of the physician. The time varies significantly, and there is no universally applicable standard.
Generally speaking, the entire process of in vitro fertilization typically takes 1-3 months.
The specific time distribution should be determined based on factors such as the patient's own condition
1. Pre-examination Phase: Typically takes 1-2 months.
The male needs to undergo semen analysis, and the female also needs to complete some basic examinations, such as gynecological examination, curettage, fallopian tube permeability test, anti-sperm antibodies, liver function, hepatitis B surface antigen and two pairs of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests, complete blood count analysis, coagulation time, and basal endocrine hormone testing (on the 3rd day of menstruation).
2. Ovulation and follicular monitoring phase: approximately one month.
The medication is generally started at the mid-luteal phase, which is around the 21st day of menstruation, aiming to keep the levels of gonadotropin hormone low. Treatment lasts for about 8 days, followed by menstruation. On the 3rd to 7th day after menstruation, the medication for promoting follicular development is administered intramuscularly and then monitored with ultrasound on the 3rd day for the condition of follicular development. The dosage of the medication is adjusted accordingly.
3. Oocyte collection, sperm collection, and embryo in vitro culture followed by transplantation: After the administration of follicle-stimulating hormone for about 10 days, when the follicles have matured, under the guidance of B-mode ultrasound, oocytes can be aspirated via transvaginal puncture through the cervical fornix. The fertilized eggs are then cultured for 3 days, developing into embryos which are transferred into the uterus. After the transplantation, patients should rest in bed for 2-4 hours.
4. Post-Embryo Transfer: Morning urine test to confirm pregnancy after embryo transfer on the 14th day.
If pregnancy occurs, the number of fetuses and the location of embryo implantation should be examined 14 days post-conception.
Additionally, there are two types of IVF treatment protocols: long and short. Each has different indications based on the condition of the ovaries. For those with good ovarian function, the long protocol is used, while for those with poor ovarian function, the short protocol is employed.
The duration of the process varies depending on the plan.
Is in vitro fertilization surgery risky? Many women preparing for pregnancy are concerned about the risks associated with "in vitro fertilization" surgery. Generally speaking, such operations are rarely associated with complications, the most common being bleeding at the site of puncture during oocyte retrieval and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
Follitropin and ovulation induction do not increase the risk of malignancy or lead to a decrease in ovarian function or early menopause.
If the female partner experiences any of the following conditions and fails to conceive after multiple attempts, it is recommended that she seek timely medical attention: being over 35 years old, irregular or absent menstruation, having two or more instances of embryonic arrest, endometriosis or dysmenorrhea, or severe acne or hirsutism.
Who is suitable for in vitro fertilization surgery? The causes of infertility can be divided into male and female factors: about 30% of the problems are from the male, including sperm quantity, activity or morphology abnormalities.
Erectile dysfunction, cryptorchidism, varicocele.
A history of mumps, prior urological surgery, prostatitis, cystic fibrosis, or other genetic diseases in the male.
Additionally, approximately 40% of the issues stem from female factors such as fallopian tube obstruction, reproductive system inflammation, endometriosis, or polycystic ovary syndrome, among others.
Of course, there are also about 20% of the problems that both spouses have, and about 10% of infertility at present can not find the reason.
Among them, about 10% of infertility needs to be solved by assisted reproductive technology.
Specifically, the indications for "in vitro fertilization" include: 1. The woman has difficulty in sperm-egg encounter due to factors such as the fallopian tubes.
2. Ovulatory disorders.
3. Endometriosis.
4. The male partner has oligozoospermia
5. Female Immune Infertility.
6. Unexplained infertility.
The original intention of this post by a mother on Mom.com was to share the journey towards in vitro fertilization (IVF) success. Today, March 21st, six years have passed since I underwent embryo transfer on March 17th. Five days have passed since that date, and we are now just five days away from knowing the outcome. Will our baby come?
I've been following the MamaNet forum for quite some time before finally applying to create an account, and today marks my first post on this journey of in vitro fertilization.
I'm 34 and I'm overweight.
I became pregnant in 2002, but due to my youth and the belief that I lacked financial capability, decided to have an abortion. Starting from 2006, I began trying to conceive.
By 2008, after unsuccessful attempts to conceive, I started seeking medical advice. Upon diagnosis, it was found that the follicles were not functioning properly. Seeking traditional Chinese medicine, I managed to improve my condition.
In 2011, it was discovered that my husband's semen quality was poor. After attempting in vitro fertilization three times without success, we switched to IVF.
Serum hCG measurement 14 days post-embryo transfer was performed to confirm pregnancy. In February of 2012, 11 oocytes were retrieved and eight embryos were cultivated (6 good and 2 slightly inferior). Due to a thin endometrium in that month, the procedure was transferred to March for frozen embryo transfer. Three embryos were transferred.
I have been receiving fertility treatment at the Reproductive Endocrinology and Fertility Specialty Clinic of Provincial Hospital, and I am truly grateful. Regardless of my physical condition, I always hear encouragement from the doctors and nurses here, which brings me a sense of warmth.
Last year, when I was performing intrauterine insemination (IUI), many girls were opting for this method. However, this year, when I switched to in vitro fertilization (IVF), it became clear that most of the women were choosing IVF. Upon consulting with the doctor, I found out that indeed, most of them are not physically suited for IUI and thus resort to IVF. I noticed that many of these young women are in their twenties. Looking at the situation now, I can't help but feel worried about how much pressure society is putting on young women.
Many girls, not yet 30, are pale and lack luster, appearing frail and like they can be blown over by the wind. When interacting with doctors, it's common to hear about prolonged amenorrhea or extreme infertility issues—something I'm embarrassed to mention since it's all clear to the attending physicians, leaving no privacy for personal history. Meanwhile, looking back at myself, who is fair-skinned and plump, eating well, sleeping soundly, and menstruating on schedule, one cannot help but feel somewhat ironic.
I don't know what to say, just want to find a place to record my journey, and hope that it can provide some information for some sisters who have the same question.
In the first phase of in vitro fertilization, which I was guided through by a Western doctor, we began our journey with monitoring ovulation. This usually started on the seventh day after my period began, and every two or three days, we would check to see if the follicles were developing properly. In my case, if the follicles did not grow well and were expelled, the doctor would prescribe medication and inject hormones to ensure proper follicle development. It seems that the more round and large the follicle becomes, the better it is. The ideal size is over 15X15 millimeters, preferably larger than 18 millimeters.
I've been struggling for months, and sometimes the follicles are too thick or overly fatty, while others fail to develop (the doctor says it's because of my obesity, affecting the absorption of medications).
The second stage is in vitro fertilization.
Both spouses undergo a series of tests that have an expiration date of one year. Then they go to the neighborhood committee to obtain a green booklet, which is called "Family Planning". The purpose is to prove that they can legally give birth instead of being caught in any extramarital pregnancy.
The female partner continued monitoring ovulation, using medication and injecting hormones to confirm that she was soon about to ovulate. On a certain morning, the male partner collected sperm and processed it before inserting it into the female partner's vagina. After placement, the female partner rested for half an hour before returning home. The following two weeks were spent on progesterone supplementation to check for menstrual flow. The hospital also made follow-up phone calls on the 14th day after the procedure to check if the operation was successful.
The surgery is brief, akin to a gynecological examination, painless, and non-invasive.
The monthly treatment cost depends on individual circumstances. For those with good ovarian follicles, there's no need for many medications or injections; for me, the total cost of a single in vitro fertilization procedure was about 4,000 yuan (I can't quite remember the exact figure).
This does not include the costs of those tests. The total cost for a couple, including two people, is around 1500.
My husband checked his semen twice, each time for over 200
The third stage is in vitro fertilization. After three failed intrauterine inseminations, I can then proceed to tube baby. Given that my condition isn't particularly poor, and my husband's semen quality isn't lacking, we don't meet the criteria for immediate in vitro fertilization. We must undergo intrauterine insemination three times before moving on to tube baby.
I think it's quite humane, not to start with IVF right off the bat and have a high cost, high pressure.
The process is also similar, monitoring follicles, administering injections and medication, but medication promotes follicle growth and requires the growth of many follicles before they can be removed.
Each person's response to the procedure varies; some experience no reaction and can get up easily, while others feel intense pain so much that they cry and cannot stand. It is said that if the number of eggs collected is small, there is no pain involved.
During my oocyte retrieval, I could see the ultrasound monitor at the same time, and it seemed to be painless. On the monitor, there was a thin tube approaching the follicles, and as soon as it touched, the follicles disappeared. There was no special reaction. However, when it approached the left side, due to personal issues, the ovaries and uterus were close to each other. The doctor explained that they had to avoid the uterus to reach the left side. So, I got hit by something (was it the uterus?) which caused a very painful sensation, so intense that I fainted, but it ended quickly.
After being in bed for an hour, I returned home. Upon returning, I felt no particular discomfort.
My husband also took semen at the same time that day
What is the reason for the elevated detection data? It seems to be related to some hormones, which were detected through blood testing. The doctor has advised me to take a month off and then proceed with embryo transfer next month.
I placed the embryo this month, which is March, and I didn't have any injections or medication before. We monitored ovulation and then placed the embryo three days after ovulation. I used the frozen embryo from last month, and we could place up to three (since we only had two embryos available in that month) - it was just like a gynecological examination, taking about three minutes, and then resting for one hour before returning home. Afterwards, we supplemented with progesterone, followed by a shot every three days. We waited until day 10 after surgery to take a blood test to check for pregnancy.
Six days after oocyte retrieval, I'm still waiting for the results. The cost of IVF is roughly 30,000 yuan, and as you said, everyone's body condition and medication dosage vary, so the expenses differ accordingly.
I heard from other girls who have undergone medical treatment that the success rate for intrauterine insemination is 15-25%, while that for IVF is 45%.
The content above is entirely my personal experience, and my views may not necessarily be accurate. I am not a medical professional; everything I have learned has been based on what the doctor has said to me after she has consulted with them, and I guess things out on my own. If the doctor is available, she will tell me more, but if she isn't, then I can only guess at what she might say.
I just feel that many things aren't as painful as imagined, and looking on the bright side is all that matters. What comes will come, and opportunities are something we can't force. ~Regarding Qi-Meridian therapy, there's really nothing more to say; it's just like the initial stage of Western medicine, with traditional Chinese medicine combined with B-mode ultrasound monitoring ovulation. It just feels less harmful physically.
I highly recommend the Traditional Chinese Medicine Department at the Municipal Women's and Children's Hospital, Dr. Lu Huiling. She is an absolute gem with an exceptional attitude and incredibly hard to get a consultation.
I have been watching her for a year, and there has indeed been an improvement in her ovarian follicles.
There are also many girls who seek her advice for menstrual irregularities; she is quite renowned as a skilled doctor.
Generally speaking, the complications associated with IVF surgery are rare. How long after oocytes are retrieved to transfer embryos? The decision is made based on individual circumstances. I underwent fertility treatment at the Reproductive Fertility Specialist Department of our hospital, where both the doctors and the operating room nurses were kind and compassionate, giving me hope when I felt like there was no other option left.
The time from the examination to the placement of the embryo can be expressed as follows: it is sufficient if a normal menstrual cycle is followed. On the 14th day from the first day of the menstrual period, which is approximately the day of ovulation, proceed to the operating room for oocyte retrieval and semen collection.
Then, after 3 days, the embryos are transferred into the uterus.
However, everyone's situation is different. I have seen cases where the embryo was implanted three days after oocytes were retrieved, while others waited until the next month, and still others waited for up to three months. It's not always the same.
Doctors will do it according to individual circumstances.
It's not like you can enter the stage of IVF just by seeing a doctor. You need to undergo a lot of tests, go to the neighborhood committee, and see your own situation.
I've successfully conceived through IVF! Thank you to all the sisters on Momin for your concern. I went to the hospital yesterday for blood tests, and it was a success. Finally, my little one has arrived! Earlier, I had continuous abdominal pain, similar to menstruation, which worried me greatly. I even feared seeing the results of the blood test, but God has finally blessed my fragile heart.
I was really happy when I went to see the doctor and found a bunch of girls in the room who were all excited about it. Several even clapped me on the back and congratulated me. (Although the story seemed a bit dramatic, I was truly moved at the time; my eyes were even wet with emotion). After all, everyone who's been through the journey of trying to conceive needs encouragement. It made me feel very happy.
There's no significant reaction at the moment, but I do feel a bit acidic in my mouth. Other than that, nothing else is apparent yet.
What kind of sex hormone should be injected every 3 days to supplement progesterone every day? I don't remember the name again. Two weeks later, we will have blood drawn to check the data and perform an ultrasound.
I'm still not sure how many babies I'm having. After the doctor asked me about my height, she mentioned there was a possibility of twins (but she didn't explain to me why that was directly related to my height), and I was very disappointed and frustrated because I had hoped for a twin pregnancy. However, even though it's not possible for me to exercise now, she advised me to maintain some level of physical activity as being overweight could increase risks during pregnancy, especially in the later stages. She also suggested waiting until I feel more stable before seeing a nutritionist for guidance on diet. Thank you for this positive start!
I've been trying to conceive for over a decade since 2007, and all that time has passed by like a blur. Now it's time to focus on nourishing my body and waiting patiently for this challenging little one to grow into a healthy baby.
*The medical section mentioned in this article is for reference only
If there is any discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately, based on offline diagnosis, medical diagnosis, and treatment.