In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a process by which egg cells are fertilized by sperm outside of the womb, in vitro. IVF is a major treatment in infertility when other methods of assisted reproductive technology have failed. The process involves hormonally controlling the ovulatory process, removing ova (eggs) from the woman's ovaries and letting sperm fertilize them in a fluid medium. The fertilized egg (zygote) is then transferred to the patient's uterus with the intent to establish a successful pregnancy. |
| WHO NEEDS IVF? |
| Couples who have the following conditions are suitable for IVF. |
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Fallopian tube blockage
In this situation the ovum cannot find its way along the reproductive tract. The only options for treating significant fallopian tube blockage are surgical repair or IVF. This decision must be carefully assesed in each instance.
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Endometriosis
Endometriosis may be effectively treated with a combination of surgical and medical therapy. When such treatment is proven unsuccessful IVF is a very effective second line method. |
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Failure of development and release of egg
An example of this is the condition named polycystic ovarian disease. The majority of patients with this problem will conceive using simpler treatments. Those who fail in these simpler procedures however would have to undergo IVF. |
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Age related infertility
In normal reproductive life a woman’s ovarian function is diminishes with age. In many cases, this reduced function can be overcome through the use of IVF. |
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Male factor infertility
When quality of the sperms is poor, fertilization can be achieved using IVF, one of the most dramatic advances in the treatment of male infertility. |
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Unexplained infertility
Approximately 20% of couples will have no identifiable cause of infertility after completing a comprehensive course of evaluation. IVF is often successful even if more conservative treatment such as IUI has failed. |
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