5 things to keep in mind before you begin your IVF journey

To conceive a child is every parent’s dream. It can be heartbreaking if you can’t conceive naturally, especially after trying for five years, for reasons that include poor quality of sperm, genetic disease, fibroids, and endometriosis.

In such cases, several couples have been opting for an assisted reproduction technology called In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) which helps increase the chances of conceiving a child.

But before you take the plunge, there are certain factors that you must keep in mind

Decide your goal and be positive

The couple needs to mutually discuss and decide to stick to the goal with a positive mindset until they succeed and conceive a child. The couple needs to believe that it is possible and must always keep alternative options ready, to achieve their goal.

Know the process and the best and worst-case scenarios

First of all, understand what infertility treatment is and what is required from your end by researching on appropriate websites. Infertility treatment does not only mean IVF. Depending on the fertility assessment of the male and female, it is decided whether to do Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), IVF or ICSI treatment. There is a 10-15 per cent chance that patients successfully conceive with IUI, which is much a cheaper alternative.

Choose an ethical IVF centre

The key to success is researching and choosing an ethical IVF centre. One must choose a centre that follows all protocols and comply with ICMR and ESHRE guidelines, which assures the chances of success. Choose an appropriate time and plan your work schedule as per doctor visits.

Lifestyle and nutrition assessment before starting the treatment

Maintaining a healthy weight is the first step towards fertility. Have a balanced diet including foods that boost the ability to conceive of both men and women. Get physically active and make healthy lifestyle changes to get pregnant.

Follow the 5 T’s – Trust, talent, teamwork, time and treasure

Once you finalise to take the IVF route, trust the doctor for their work (talent) and work with them as a team to succeed. The treatment requires commitment from both the partners and they should strictly stick to the schedule of the treatment. Time cannot be compromised and is a critical success factor. Treatment is expensive and thus you need to plan your finances accordingly.

When is IVF required?

IVF procedure is required when either the fallopian tubes are blocked or when the quality of egg or sperm is poor.

The process of IVF

Some preliminary blood tests are done to assess the general health and check the ovarian reserve (the number of eggs in the ovary). From the male partner, a sample of the semen is stored as a backup in case of inability to provide a sample on the day of the egg retrieval.

Hormonal injections are given from day 2 of the period for the next 9 days. These injections stimulate ovaries to produce eggs, which are then retrieved under short anaesthesia (15-20 minutes) using transvaginal ultrasound guidance, no cuts or stitches are required.

The eggs are fertilised with sperm – the resulting embryo is either implanted into the uterus right away or frozen for later use. The growth of the egg is monitored by ultrasound and blood tests, which are done prior to the final egg maturation injection (HCG). Approximately 4-5 short visits to the clinic are required. Embryo transfer is a simple painless procedure, done under ultrasound guidance without anaesthesia.

After the embryo transfer, progesterone is given to sustain the pregnancy. If you do not like injections, you can also opt for oral or vaginal progesterone.

A pregnancy test is advised after 14 days. These 14 days are very emotionally difficult as you agonise over the outcome. You can share your fears with a counsellor or a close family/friend to keep your stress and anxiety levels under check.

Bonus tips

Maintain oral health

Oral health is vital. If you have cavities or gum disease, it can negatively impact your IVF success and pregnancy.

Avoid alcohol

Alcohol consumption can influence conception and implantation, on both male and female fertility.