In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Infertility does not mean the end of hope. Today, advances in fertility treatment have helped many couples who have waited years for a child move closer to parenthood.

In Vitro Fertilization, commonly known as IVF, is one of the most effective assisted reproductive treatments. During IVF, eggs and sperm are brought together under carefully controlled laboratory conditions. After embryos develop, the most suitable embryo is selected for transfer into the uterus.

At Taban Fertility Center, each couple receives an individualized treatment plan. There is no single treatment protocol that is suitable for everyone. Choosing the right approach requires careful medical evaluation and close cooperation between fertility specialists, embryologists, and the wider treatment team.

How does IVF help treat infertility?

In a natural pregnancy, fertilization usually occurs inside the fallopian tube. In some patients, this process may not happen properly for medical or reproductive reasons.

During IVF, fertilization takes place in the laboratory under controlled conditions. This allows the treatment team to closely manage the process and improve the opportunity for embryo formation.

After fertilization, the embryos are observed by embryologists for several days. Their development is assessed carefully, and at the appropriate time, the most suitable embryo is selected for transfer into the uterus.

When additional good-quality embryos are available, they may be cryopreserved for possible future use.

When may IVF be the right treatment option?

IVF is not always the first treatment recommended for infertility. Your physician will consider the cause of infertility, the age of both partners, test results, medical history, and any previous treatment before recommending the most appropriate approach.

IVF may be considered in the following situations:

Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes

If the fallopian tubes are blocked or no longer function properly, sperm may be unable to reach the egg. IVF allows fertilization to take place outside the body.

Male-factor infertility

A low sperm count, reduced sperm motility, or impaired sperm quality may lower the chance of natural pregnancy. In some cases, IVF combined with ICSI may be the most appropriate treatment.

Reduced ovarian reserve or egg quality

Age and certain medical conditions may reduce the number or quality of available eggs. IVF may help make the best possible use of the eggs that can be obtained.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis may affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, egg quality, or the reproductive environment. For many patients, IVF may be an effective treatment option.

Unexplained infertility

In some couples, pregnancy does not occur even though routine evaluations appear normal. If simpler treatments are unsuccessful, IVF may be recommended.

What are the stages of IVF treatment?

IVF is a step-by-step process, and the treatment plan is adapted to each patient’s individual circumstances.

Treatment usually begins with a detailed review of the couple’s medical history, laboratory tests, ultrasound examinations, and previous fertility treatments.

Medications are then used to stimulate the ovaries so that several eggs may develop. The response of the ovaries is monitored regularly through ultrasound examinations and, when necessary, laboratory tests.

Once the follicles reach the appropriate stage, the eggs are collected during a short, minimally invasive procedure. This procedure is usually performed under short-term anesthesia or sedation.

A semen sample is prepared on the same day, and fertilization is carried out in the laboratory using the method considered most suitable for the couple.

The resulting embryos are kept under carefully controlled laboratory conditions for several days and are assessed for development and quality.

At the appropriate time, the selected embryo is placed inside the uterus using a thin catheter. Embryo transfer does not require surgery and is usually performed without anesthesia.

A blood pregnancy test is generally performed approximately 10 to 14 days after embryo transfer.

Can patients with underlying medical conditions undergo IVF?

Having an underlying condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, autoimmune disease, endometriosis, or certain kidney disorders does not always prevent IVF treatment.

Many patients can safely begin fertility treatment once their medical condition has been properly evaluated and controlled.

If either partner has a history of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, or the use of specific medications, the physician should be informed before treatment begins. This information helps the medical team choose the safest and most appropriate treatment plan.

What factors affect the success of IVF?

No physician can accurately predict the result of IVF using only one test or one number.

The outcome of treatment depends on several factors, including:

The woman’s age

Ovarian reserve

Egg quality

Sperm quality

Embryo quality

Uterine condition

The cause of infertility

Previous fertility treatments

General health and lifestyle

Adherence to the treatment plan

For this reason, every couple is evaluated individually, and treatment decisions are based on their specific medical circumstances.

Important information

An unsuccessful first IVF cycle does not mean the end of treatment

Some couples may require more than one treatment cycle before achieving pregnancy. The results of each cycle provide useful information that can help the physician improve or modify future treatment plans.

A pregnancy achieved through IVF develops like other pregnancies

After successful implantation, embryo development and routine pregnancy care are generally similar to those of other pregnancies, unless additional monitoring is medically required.

Complete bed rest after embryo transfer is usually unnecessary

In most cases, patients may return to light daily activities. Following the physician’s instructions is more important than prolonged bed rest.