California couples and individuals who struggle with infertility should know that there are options available to them. When you’re having trouble starting a family, fertility assistance can help. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of them.
Understanding in vitro fertilization
IVF is a procedure that involves using egg/sperm/embryo from intended parents or donors or both. It’s a popular assisted reproductive technology option that entails egg retrieval and combining eggs with sperm in a laboratory to create embryos. Embryos are then implanted directly into the uterus of the intended mother or a surrogate; if an embryo implants in the uterine wall, it means pregnancy has occurred.
Good candidates for IVF
Certain couples or individuals are good candidates for IVF. Women with various fertility problems or disorders such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, uterine fibroids, damaged or blocked fallopian tubes, abnormal uteruses or unexplained fertility can benefit from the procedure. Women over age 40, LGBTQ couples, men with low sperm count and anyone with a risk of passing on genetic disorders may also find IVF appropriate for them when they want to start a family.
How it works
Women who choose IVF treatment initially begin taking prescription birth control or estrogen. Then, they begin receiving injectable hormones to stimulate ovulation with multiple eggs per month instead of just one in preparation for egg retrieval. This increases the chances of a successful IVF cycle.
Egg retrieval is done using a thin needle inserted into the vagina and through the ovaries. This occurs 36 hours after the last hormone injection, known as the trigger shot. From there, sperm is introduced to the eggs to create embryos for implantation.
IVF isn’t for everyone; however, if you’re deemed a good candidate, the procedure can help you have the family of your dreams.