In vitro fertilization, commonly known as IVF, is one of the most popular and effective forms of assisted reproductive technology. IVF refers to a technology in which an egg is fertilized outside the body (in a laboratory) and then implanted in a person’s uterus. It’s a complex and typically expensive procedure. Before you start looking for a fertility center or IVF clinic near you, you might want to know the answers to common IVF-related questions.

Why is IVF performed?
IVF is essentially opted to help a woman get pregnant. It is a highly effective treatment option for infertility or genetic problems. Those with infertility issues consider IVF only after the failure of other less-invasive treatment options. However, in some cases, such as those over 40 trying to become pregnant, IVF may be the only option. Besides, some people choose IVF due to certain health problems, such as:

Genetic disorders
For a couple who is at risk of passing on a genetic health condition to their child, IVF may be an excellent option.

Blocked or damaged fallopian tube
An impaired fallopian tube can prevent egg fertilization, and it can also make it difficult for an embryo to travel to the uterus.

Ovulation disorders
These disorders can reduce the frequency of ovulation or prevent it altogether, which means there will be fewer eggs available for fertilization, lowering the chances of pregnancy.

Uterine fibroids
These are benign tumors in the uterus that can interfere with the implantation of the fertilized egg. Uterine fibroids are common in people in their 30s and 40s.

Low sperm count or other sperm impairments
Problems with sperm production or function, such as low sperm concentration, poor mobility, or weak movement of sperm, can make it difficult for sperm to fertilize an egg.

What are the steps involved in IVF?
No matter which fertility center or IVF clinic you visit, the main steps involved in an IVF procedure will be the same. These include:

Increasing egg production
The first step in IVF is to increase the production of eggs; the process is known as superovulation or hyperstimulation. This is typically achieved by taking oral treatment containing either luteinizing or follicle-stimulating hormone.

Removing the eggs
A minor surgical procedure, called “follicular aspiration” or “egg retrieval,” is performed to remove the eggs.

Collecting sperm
Your partner’s sperm will be collected once you’re done with the egg retrieval. You also have the option to choose a donor sperm at this stage.

Mixing the eggs and sperm
Also called insemination, this process involves uniting sperm and eggs. Typically, the sperm fertilizes an egg in a few hours. The fertilized egg then becomes an embryo.

Transferring the embryo into the uterus
The final step involves transferring the embryo into the uterus. Sometimes, multiple embryos are implanted into the uterus.

How many days does the entire process take?
IVF is a long process with a series of steps. The whole process lasts four to six weeks, starting from superovulation until the person is tested for pregnancy. This period is also referred to as one full cycle of IVF.

How much does the IVF treatment cost?
The treatment is generally expensive. Recent surveys indicate that a single full cycle of this assisted reproductive technology can usually cost anywhere between $15,000 and $30,000. Most IVF clinics in the country quote roughly $12,000 to $14,000 for one cycle, but this price is generally only a base fee, meaning it doesn’t include the cost of other important components of IVF, such as hormone injections, oral treatments, and other minor processes that may be required during the process. It is important to keep in mind that many patients go through several cycles of IVF before conceiving or dropping the option, which can significantly increase the total cost of the treatment. However, there are ways to lower the cost. Some insurance covers certain procedures or treatments involved in a cycle. Also, grants and discount programs can help patients pay for all or part of the IVF process.

What are the risks of IVF?
Like every treatment, IVF has its own set of risks. People must consider these risks and consult their doctor before signing up for the treatment. Some risks of IVF include:

Multiple births
During IVF, more than one embryo is often transferred to the uterus to increase the chance of pregnancy. However, this can also lead to multiple births. Multiple fetuses, in turn, increase the risk of premature delivery and lower birth weight.

Miscarriage
Like normal pregnancies, people who get pregnant through IVF may suffer a miscarriage. It is worth noting the rate of miscarriage is similar in either case, which is about 15% to 25%.

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
In rare cases, injectable treatments can cause ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, a condition characterized by swollen and painful ovaries. If the illness becomes severe, it may lead to blood clots, shortness of breath, dehydration, and vomiting.

Side effects of treatments involved in IVF
The whole procedure involves multiple injectable and oral treatments. These options can cause various side effects, such as abdominal pain, hot flashes, insomnia, irritability, breathing difficulty, and more.