First, In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a complicated sequence of treatments aimed at helping people or couples achieve pregnancy. It usually involves 5 critical steps, each vital for the treatment’s outcome.
- Control Ovarian Hyperstimulation (COH) or Medication
- Egg Retrieval
- Fertilization and Embryo Culture
- Embryo Quality and Selection
- Embryo Transfer:
We discussed each one separately and then revealed a unique way to increase your chances of success: go to Iran, a country known for its infertility treatment.
Read more: IVF procedure
IVF process step by step
As we mentioned above, the IVF process takes a long time to complete five steps, including:
Step 1: Ovarian Suppression
Before initiating IVF treatment, the first step involves suppressing the natural menstrual cycle.
- Medical Evaluation: A thorough assessment of both partners’ fertility is conducted.
- Medication: Hormonal medications suppress ovarian function, preparing the body for the next stimulation phase.
Read more: IVF success rate in Iran
Step 2: Ovarian Stimulation
This step stimulates the ovaries to produce multiple eggs instead of the single egg that typically matures in a natural cycle.
- Fertility Drugs: Hormonal medications, primarily follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), are injected to encourage the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs.
- Monitoring: The patient’s response to the medication is closely monitored through blood tests and ultrasound scans to track follicle development.
Read more: IVF gender selection in Iran
Step 3: Egg Retrieval
Once the eggs are deemed mature, a minor surgical procedure is performed to collect them.
- Procedure: Under sedation, a thin needle is guided through the vaginal wall into the ovaries to extract the eggs. This procedure is typically performed using ultrasound guidance to ensure accuracy.
Read more: Surrogacy in Iran
Step 4: Fertilization
After retrieval, the next step is to fertilize the eggs with sperm in a laboratory setting.
- Methods of Fertilization: The retrieved eggs are either placed in a dish with sperm for conventional insemination or undergo Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg.
- Embryo Development: The fertilized eggs (now embryos) are monitored for growth and development over the next few days.
Read more: ICSI in Iran
Step 5: Embryo Transfer
The final step involves transferring the best-quality embryos into the uterus.
- Selection of Embryos: After 3-5 days of culture, embryologists select the healthiest embryos for transfer.
- Transfer Procedure: Using a thin catheter, the selected embryos are placed into the uterus, aiming to achieve pregnancy.
These five steps outline the IVF process, providing a comprehensive overview of how assisted reproductive technology works to help individuals and couples conceive.
Read more: 5 New Real Patients IVF Testimonials
For a better understanding of getting pregnant through IVF, please read the quick, easy information in the table below:
| Step | Description | What to Expect | Additional Information |
| Step 1: Preparation and Ovarian Suppression | Suppress the natural menstrual cycle to prepare the body for treatment. | Medical evaluation and hormonal medications to stop ovarian function. | This step helps control the timing and ensures multiple eggs are available for retrieval. |
| Step 2: Ovarian Stimulation | Stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. | Hormonal injections (e.g., FSH) and regular monitoring with blood tests and ultrasound scans. | This phase encourages the ovaries to produce more eggs than usual, increasing the chances of successful fertilization. |
| Step 3: Egg Retrieval | Collect mature eggs from the ovaries. | Minor surgical procedure under sedation, using a thin needle guided by ultrasound. | This procedure is typically painless and takes about 20-30 minutes. |
| Step 4: Fertilization | Fertilize the eggs with sperm in a laboratory. | Eggs are mixed with sperm or undergo ICSI (a single sperm injected into an egg). | The fertilized eggs (embryos) are then monitored for growth over the next few days. |
| Step 5: Embryo Transfer | Transfer the best-quality embryos into the uterus. | Selection of healthy embryos and transfer using a thin catheter. | This procedure is relatively simple and similar to a Pap smear. It is usually performed 3-5 days after egg retrieval. |
increase your IVF success rate
To increase your chances of getting pregnant through IVF, it’s crucial to choose a qualified and experienced fertility clinic with high success rates. Here are some key factors to consider:
Clinician Experience
- The clinician’s experience and expertise play a significant role in IVF outcomes. However, a study found no statistically significant difference in pregnancy rates between experienced clinicians and trainees when proper supervision and standardized protocols are in place.
- Patients often prefer an experienced clinician to perform their embryo transfer. Still, the clinician’s grade and duration of service have not been shown to significantly impact the outcome of the ART cycle.
Read more: How Many IVF Clinics Are There in Iran?
Clinic Success Rates
- It is important to choose a clinic with consistently high success rates. For example, RAD fertility, a member of the CCRM Fertility Network, has live birth rates above the national average for all age groups.
Factors Affecting Success
- Age is a critical factor, with women under 35 having the highest success rates, around 55.1% on the first try. Success rates decline with age.
- Other factors like fertility issues, embryo quality, and lifestyle habits can also influence IVF success.
Read more: IVF in Iran
To maximize your chances of getting pregnant through IVF, it’s best to choose a reputable fertility clinic with a proven track record of success, experienced clinicians, and a commitment to personalized care. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following the doctor’s instructions can also enhance your chances of a successful outcome.
| Factor | Description | Importance | IranHealthAgency Insight |
| Age | Maternal age significantly affects IVF success rates. Women under 35 have higher success rates. | High | Our expert advises that women under 35 have the best chances, with success rates around 40%. |
| Clinic Selection | Choosing a reputable and well-equipped clinic is vital. Look for clinics with high success rates and advanced technologies. | High | We recommend top clinics like Royan Fertility Treatment Center, MOM Fertility & Infertility Center, and Hazrat e Maryam Fertility Center for their expertise and high success rates. |
| Health and Lifestyle | A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and alcohol, can improve IVF success. | Medium | IHA emphasizes the importance of a healthy lifestyle and offers guidance on pre-treatment preparation to enhance success rates. |
| Cause of Infertility | Understanding the underlying cause of infertility helps in choosing the proper treatment approach. | High | Our medical team evaluates each couple’s issues to recommend the most effective treatment plan. |
| Quality of Eggs and Sperm | The quality of eggs and sperm is crucial for successful fertilization. If necessary, using donor eggs or sperm may be an option. | High | Our company provides access to high-quality donor programs and advanced fertility testing to ensure the best possible outcomes. |
| Advanced Technologies | Clinics with advanced technologies and equipment can significantly improve success rates. | High | IranHealthAgency ensures that partner clinics are equipped with the latest technologies, such as ICSI and embryo freezing, to enhance treatment success. |
| Pre- and Post-Transfer Care | Proper pre- and post-transfer medications and care can improve implantation rates. | Medium | We offer comprehensive pre- and post-transfer care packages to support patients throughout their treatment journey. |
| Embryo Quality and Transfer | Selecting high-quality embryos and optimal timing for transfer is critical. | High | IranHealthAgency’s partner clinics have experienced embryologists who select the best embryos for transfer, increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy. |
| Cost Transparency | Understanding the costs and ensuring no hidden fees can reduce stress and improve the overall experience. | Medium | We provide transparent and affordable IVF packages, ensuring that patients are aware of all costs involved from the outset. |
Additional Insights from IranHealthAgency
IranHealth Agency works with highly qualified fertility experts and Iranian clinics to guarantee that patients get first-rate treatment and guidance catered to their particular situation.
- Personalized Care: Throughout the IVF process, the agency provides patients with individualized support and direction so they may negotiate each stage and attend to any issues they might have.
- Modern technologies and facilities found in IranHealth Agency’s partner clinics guarantee that patients can access the best available treatment choices and care.
Couples can significantly increase their chances of achieving a successful IVF result in Iran by considering these elements and collaborating with a respected medical tourism firm such as the IranHealth Agency.
How do you get pregnant through IVF? Can you answer this question directly after reading this blog? If no, you contact us for free consultation for specific data you might need! How? Via click the below link:
