What is IVF?, IVF Treatment In India

  

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a procedure that involves fertilizing an egg with sperm in a laboratory dish and then returning the developed embryo to the woman's uterus.

IVF is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART). It can be used with a couple's own eggs and sperm, or with eggs and sperm from donors. It is a common treatment for infertility due to a variety of causes, including endometriosis, male factor, and unexplained infertility.

How this procedure works?

IVF is a complicated process with many steps. On average, you can expect the process to last four to six weeks. This includes the time before egg retrieval, when a person takes fertility medication until they’re tested for pregnancy.

Ovarian stimulation: The first step in IVF is taking fertility medications to help your ovaries produce several eggs that are mature and ready for fertilization. This is called ovulation induction. You may get regular ultrasounds or blood tests to measure your hormone levels and keep track of your egg production.

Egg retrieval: Once your ovaries have produced enough mature eggs, your doctor removes the eggs from your body. Egg retrieval is a minor surgical procedure that’s done at your doctor’s office or at a fertility clinic.

You’ll get medicine to help you feel relaxed and comfortable during the procedure. Using an ultrasound to see inside your body, the doctor puts a thin, hollow tube through your vagina and into the ovary and follicles that hold your eggs. The needle is connected to a suction device that gently pulls the eggs out of each follicle.

Embryo culture: In a lab, your eggs are mixed with sperm cells from your partner or a donor this is called insemination. The eggs and sperm are stored together in a special container, and fertilization happens. For sperm that have lower motility, they may be injected directly into the eggs to promote fertilization. As the cells in the fertilized eggs divide and become embryos, people who work at the lab monitor the progress.

Embryo transfer: About 3-5 days after the egg retrieval, 1 or more embryos are put into your uterus. The following embryo transfers are most commonly performed.

1. Fresh embryo transfer: This procedure is the most common when an IVF cycle is performed for the first time. This transfer is done shortly after fertilization is completed. On egg retrieval day, microinjection is done and doctor will inform you about the number of fertilized embryos on day 1 after the egg retrieval. For example, if 12 mature eggs are retrieved, doctors microinject the sperm on 12 mature eggs, this is day zero. One day after the egg retrieval day is day 1 of embryos. On this day doctors will inform you about the number of embryos that reached day 1. Doctor transfers embryo/s three or five days after the egg retrieval. During these days, they expect the embryos to be compact, developed to 8th cell and blastocyst stage.

• After the most quality and success- promising embryo is chosen, the embryo is placed into a woman’s uterus with a catheter. The fertility doctor uses ultrasound to guide the procedure. This procedure is very similar to a pap smear simple and non-invasive. There is no need to use sedation or anaesthesia during embryo transfer, but doctors can perform it per patient’s request.

2. Frozen embryo transfer:  This type of embryo transfer is specific for an IVF cycle that is not performed for the first time. Usually, after the first IVF cycle, if there are several embryos that can successfully develop into a healthy pregnancy, some of them can be frozen and available for future use. The procedure of the transfer itself does not differ much from the previous one. For frozen embryo transfer, the woman does not need to use hormonal injections. 

3. Transfer of embryo in the blastocyst stage: In certain cases, the transfer of an embryo in the blastocyst stage is more recommended. Those cases are usually couples who have experienced implantation failures. Transfer of embryo in the blastocyst stage can increase the chances of a successful pregnancy because it shows us that the embryos are visual quality and can develop well until day five (blastocyst stage).

4. Embryo transfer with performed Assisted Hatching (AH): This is also a type of embryo transfer that is recommended for cases with implantation failure. For this transfer, the embryo has to undergo a procedure of weakening the outer layer, which will help with its conceiving and implantation. This procedure is usually recommended as an addition when the transfer of a frozen embryo is about to be performed.

Pregnancy: It happens if any of the embryos attach to the lining of your uterus.  Embryo transfer is done at your doctor’s office or at a fertility clinic, and it’s usually not painful.

You may have to take pills or get daily shots of a hormone called progesterone for the first 8-10 weeks after the embryo transfer. The hormones make it easier for the embryo to survive in your uterus.

What you can expect after IVF treatment

After embryo transfer you may feel some symptoms.

• Mild Cramping or Bloating

• Breast Tenderness 

• Fatigue 

• Frequent Urination 

• Mood Swings 

• Severe Cramping or Heavy Bleeding 

• Fever and Vomiting 

• Shortness of Breath

What is the success rate of IVF in India?

India has become a renowned destination for fertility treatments, including IVF, due to its combination of advanced medical facilities, experienced doctors, and relatively lower costs compared to many other countries. 

Success rate in the good IVF centres in India are as follows:

• 70-80% for women under 35

• 30-35% for women aged 35-37

• 20-25% for women aged 38-40

• 10-15% for women over 40

For women who have not able to give her own eggs, then using donor eggs can significantly increase the chances of a successful pregnancy. Donor egg IVF success rates are generally higher than those using a woman’s own eggs, especially for older women.

Donor egg IVF success rates typically range from 50-75% per cycle, regardless of the recipient’s age. This is because the eggs come from young, healthy donors, usually between the ages of 21 and 34.

Factors contributing to IVF’s success

Age and IVF success: The probability of a successful IVF pregnancy generally decreases with age. Younger women typically have higher success rates compared to those over 40. However, factors like overall well-being and medical history are also crucial. 

Quality of eggs and embryos: The quality of eggs and embryos is a critical determinant of IVF success. Factors such as age, egg count, medications, and sperm quality play a significant role. Higher-quality eggs and embryos boost the successful outcome.

Lifestyle factors: Lifestyle habits, including smoking, alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy weight, can impact IVF success. Adopting healthier lifestyle choices can enhance the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.

Infertility causes: The specific causes of infertility, such as ovarian dysfunction, secondary infertility, abdominal issues, or fibroids, can greatly influence IVF outcomes. The duration and success of treatment vary based on these underlying conditions.

Donor eggs option: In cases where a woman’s eggs are not viable, the use of donor eggs can substantially increase the chances of success. Although it involves additional costs, this option provides a valuable alternative for achieving pregnancy.

Role of sperm quality: Sperm quality is also a key factor in IVF success. Men facing fertility issues should consult a specialist to explore ways to improve sperm health, which can positively impact the IVF process.

Impact of past miscarriages or failed IVF: Previous miscarriages or failed IVF attempts may negatively influence future results. However, moving forward with a positive outlook and confidence in the process can help. 

Sticking to medication plan: Stick to your prescribed medication plan to produce healthy eggs. Consistent medication use is essential for hormone regulation and egg development. Customized treatment plans from skilled doctors can greatly boost your chances of IVF success, as they are tailored to your unique needs and conditions. Regular monitoring and adjustments by your medical team ensure that your treatment is on the right track.

How much this treatment cost in India?

The cost of IVF treatment in India can range from ₹90,000 to ₹5,00,000 or more, depending on several factors: 

Clinic location: The cost of IVF varies depending on the location of the clinic. 

Pre-Treatment Tests: The cost of diagnostic tests and screenings conducted before IVF treatment can contribute to the overall expense.

Inclusions in the Package: The comprehensiveness of the  Best IVF In Delhi NCR package, including services like Egg Retrieval, Embryo Transfer, Ultrasound Scans, and professional charges, can vary among different clinics.

Additional procedures: The cost of IVF can increase if additional procedures are required, such as ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), pre-implantation genetic testing, or embryo freezing and storage. 

Number of cycles: Many patients require more than one cycle to achieve pregnancy, which can increase the total cost. 

Type of IVF: The cost of IVF can vary depending on whether it's performed with self-eggs or sperm, donor eggs or sperm, or embryo donation. 

Medications: Medications are typically not included in the base cost of IVF treatment and can add an additional cost

FAQs related to IVF treatment in India

When is IVF needed?

IVF is done when there are issues related to conceiving a child due to blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis or any other unknown reason for infertility in both the mother and the father. The procedure depends on the overall review and history of the couple.

How is IVF done?

IVF procedure involves collecting mature eggs from the ovaries and then fertilizing them by sperm in a specialized lab. After doing so, the fertilized egg (embryo) is transplanted to a uterus. One complete cycle of IVF takes around three weeks. Depending on the specific case, these steps are sometimes splitted into several parts and the process can take longer.

Are IVF babies healthy?

IVF is a very safe and effective procedure. The babies conceived via IVF become healthy adults both mentally and physically. 

Is IVF process painful?

Overall, the IVF procedure causes no pain instead mild discomforts are felt. Some steps in the IVF process such as ovulation induction and fertilization are completely painless. However, during egg retrieval stage, you will be sedated not to feel the pain. After the egg retrieval procedure, you may have some menstrual cramps. During embryo transfer, the syringe deposits the embryo into your uterus via a vaginal catheter, hence mild discomfort could be felt but there will be no pain.

How much time does the entire IVF procedure require?

It requires approximately 3-6 weeks depending upon the review of the couple and the type of therapy they are having. It starts with the administration of fertility drugs for a couple of days to induce ovulation along with continuous monitoring by ultrasound or hormonal profiling.

What is the cost of IVF treatment?

Costs of IVF depend on several factors. The age of the woman, medical condition, the area you are getting treated from and the level of expertise of your doctor. Generally speaking, IVF treatments range from INR 90,000 to INR 5,00,000 for one complete cycle and these prices include follow-ups, additional tests and medication.

Does insurance cover the cost of IVF?

Unfortunately, insurance policies usually do not cover the expenses of infertility treatments, including IVF. These treatments are typically considered elective and not categorized as medically necessary, resulting in limited or no insurance coverage for IVF costs. However, check with your insurance provider for details and confirmation.

If you are suffering from Infertility and need help regarding your treatment, please connect to Nishma Health Assist Private Ltd. We will love to answer your queries. Our services are completely free.

Contact Number: +918009003879

Email ID: bdteam@nishmahealthassist.com

Website: https://www.nishmahealthassist.com/