Limited seats, hurry! Admission open for M.Sc in Clinical Embryology Admission open for B.Sc. + M.Sc. in Clinical Embryology (Integrated)
Limited seats, hurry! Admission open for M.Sc in Clinical Embryology Admission open for B.Sc. + M.Sc. in Clinical Embryology (Integrated)
If you're exploring fertility treatments or simply want to understand how IVF (in vitro fertilisation) works, this blog is for you. IVF can be a life-changing option for couples struggling with infertility, and understanding the entire process – from egg retrieval to embryo transfer – can help you feel more confident in your journey
In this blog, we'll walk you through the IVF process step-by-step, explaining what happens during each stage. You'll also learn about the important role of embryology, the science behind embryo development, and why this field is so crucial to IVF success. Whether you're considering IVF for yourself or a loved one, this guide will help you better understand the medical and scientific aspects that make it possible for many people to fulfill their dreams of becoming parents.
IVF is one of the most well-known assisted reproductive technologies (ART), and it has helped millions of people around the world become parents. Basically, IVF is a process in which eggs are removed from a woman's ovaries, fertilized with sperm in the laboratory, and the resulting embryos are transferred back to the woman's uterus.
While this may seem straightforward, the process involves several important steps, each of which requires precise medical care and careful attention to detail. Let's break down the IVF process into simple steps to understand what happens and why it's so important.
The first step in the IVF process is to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Normally, a woman's ovaries release one egg each month, but in IVF, doctors want to retrieve multiple eggs to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
For this, the woman will usually be given hormonal injections for about 10-14 days. These hormones, such as FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple follicles, each containing an egg. During this time, the patient will have to have regular ultrasound scans and blood tests to find out how the ovaries are responding to the medication.Once the eggs are mature they are ready for retrieval.
Once the eggs have matured, they must be removed from the ovaries. This procedure is called egg aspiration and is usually done under mild sedation or anesthesia. A thin needle is inserted through the vaginal wall into the ovaries, where the eggs are gently sucked out.
Although the procedure is usually not painful due to the anesthesia, it can be slightly uncomfortable. The doctor will remove as many eggs as possible to maximize the chances of successful fertilization, and the eggs will be prepared for fertilization in the laboratory.
Sperm is collected from the male partner (or sperm donor) at the same time the eggs are being retrieved. The sperm is then processed in a laboratory to select the healthiest, most motile sperm for fertilization
In cases of male infertility, doctors may perform ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection), where a single sperm is injected directly into the egg. This technique is often used when sperm quality is a concern or in cases of male infertility.
Once the sperm and eggs are ready, they are brought together in a laboratory vessel. The fertilization process is closely monitored, and usually, it takes about 18-24 hours for fertilization to be confirmed.
In some cases, fertilization may fail, and the embryologist may need to try other methods, such as ICSI. If fertilization is successful, the embryos begin to grow and divide. They are placed in a special incubator that mimics the conditions of the uterus.
The embryologist will check the embryos regularly to make sure they are developing normally. Over the course of 3 to 5 days, the embryo will develop from a single cell to a blastocyst (a more advanced stage). This period is important for assessing the health of the embryos and selecting the best embryos for transfer
Once the embryos have reached the appropriate stage of development, the best embryo (or two) will be selected to be transferred into the woman's uterus. This is done in a procedure similar to a Pap smear, in which a thin catheter is inserted into the uterus through the cervix, and the embryo is carefully placed into the uterine cavity.
The procedure is painless for most women and does not require any anesthesia. Afterwards, the patient is advised to rest for a short period before resuming normal activities.
The transferred embryo will hopefully implant into the uterine lining, leading to a successful pregnancy
After the embryo transfer, you will need to wait about 10-14 days before having a blood test to check whether or not you are pregnant. The hormone levels in your blood will be checked to confirm whether or not the embryo has been successfully implanted and is growing.
If the pregnancy test is positive, you will need to visit your doctor regularly to monitor the progress of the pregnancy. If the test is negative, the doctor can discuss further treatment options with you.
Now that you know the basic steps of the IVF procedure, let's take a closer look at the role of embryology, which plays a central role in the success of IVF. Embryology is the science that deals with the study of embryos and their development. It is an essential aspect of IVF because the process of fertilizing an egg and developing an embryo in the laboratory is deeply linked to understanding how embryos develop and what makes them viable for pregnancy.
Embryologists are specialized scientists who oversee the care and development of eggs and embryos during the IVF process. They monitor fertilization, assess embryo quality and select the best embryos for transfer.
They work closely with doctors to ensure that embryos are developing normally, using advanced technology and techniques to assess the health of the embryos. This requires a deep understanding of embryology and cellular biology, as well as the ability to identify which embryos have the best chance of implantation and successful pregnancy.
One of the important tasks embryologists perform is to classify embryos based on their appearance and development. Embryo grading helps determine which embryos are most likely to lead to a successful pregnancy. Embryologists evaluate several factors during this proces
Embryo grading is a delicate process and this is the main reason why IVF requires so much skilled care
At SEART (School of Embryology and Assisted Reproductive Technology), we understand that successful IVF outcomes depend on a thorough knowledge of embryology. Our training programs are designed to equip future embryologists with the skills they need to effectively support IVF treatments
Whether you are a student interested in learning more about assisted reproductive technologies or a healthcare professional looking to expand your knowledge, SEART offers specialized training in IVF and embryology. Our goal is to ensure that every physician understands the science and best practices behind the IVF process, giving them the tools to help patients achieve successful pregnancies.
IVF is a complex medical procedure that requires precise timing, skill, and scientific knowledge. From ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval to fertilization and embryo transfer, each step of the IVF process is essential to achieving a successful pregnancy. Embryology, in particular, plays a vital role in ensuring that the embryos are healthy and have the best chance of implanting in the uterus.
If you are considering IVF, it is important to understand the process and how advances in embryology help improve the chances of success. SEART is dedicated to providing the highest quality education in embryology and assisted reproductive technology to ensure that everyone involved in IVF treatment has the best knowledge and expertise.
For more information about our courses and IVF-related services, visit our website or contact us. Your journey to becoming a parent can begin with learning more about the science behind IVF, and we are here to help you every step of the way.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
Book Your Appointment!No recent blogs this month.