Not all women and men are blessed to bear a child. Some have problematic conditions affecting their egg cells and sperm cells. If two cells fail to produce in a human body, the natural way of bearing a child can be shallow. It might be because of potential causes, such as:
- Unhealthy egg and sperm cells
- Impotence
- Genetic problem
Male and female infertility has been alarming to men and women who have been together for years but can’t bear a child. What is the best solution to infertility issues?
In Vitro Fertilization
IVF or In Vitro Fertilization is a laboratory-tested medical procedure helping people or couples who struggle with fertility issues, such as developing a child. The process involves combining an egg and sperm in a laboratory dish (in vitro). Once fertilization occurs, the resulting embryo will be implanted into the uterus for potential pregnancy. The IVF process involves several steps:
- Ovulation induction. The ovaries are stimulated using hormonal medications, producing multiple mature eggs. It is done to increase the chances of getting feasible eggs for fertilization.
- Egg retrieval. Once the eggs are mature, a minor surgical procedure, an egg retrieval or egg aspiration is performed. The eggs are removed, using a thin needle, from the woman’s ovaries under ultrasound guidance.
- Sperm collection. A sperm sample is collected from the male. The collected sperm is processed and in preparation for fertilization.
- Fertilization. The eggs and sperm are combined, which facilitates fertilization. The process is done through traditional insemination, where sperm is placed near the eggs where a single sperm is directly injected into an egg.
- Embryo culture. The fertilized eggs or embryos are cultured in a controlled environment, for a few days, up to 5 or 6. It allows them to develop and grow.
- Embryo transfer. One or more possible embryos are selected for transfer into the uterus of a woman. It is done in 2 to 5 days after fertilization. The embryos transferred will depend on several factors, such as:
- woman’s age
- medical history
- Pregnancy test. About ten to fourteen days after the embryo transfer. A pregnancy test is conducted. It helps determine if the procedure is successful and if a successful pregnancy resulted.
In Vitro Fertilization success rate
In Vitro Fertilization success rates can vary based on factors, such as:
- The woman’s age
- The cause of infertility
- The quality of the embryos
In Vitro Fertilization may be recommended for various reasons, including:
- blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
- male infertility issues
- unexplained infertility
- certain medical conditions
In Vitro Fertilization can be emotionally and physically demanding, especially those who can’t bear a child. It involves multiple cycles to achieve a successful pregnancy. It is essential to consult with healthcare professionals and fertility specialists for an appropriate course of action based on individual cases.