What is IVF?
In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a fertility treatment in which eggs are collected from the ovaries, fertilised with sperm in a laboratory and the resulting embryo is placed in the uterus. It is commonly called "test tube baby" treatment. IVF is not the first step for every couple; it is recommended when the evaluation shows that it gives the best chance of pregnancy.
Who may need IVF treatment?
- Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
- Low sperm count, poor motility or abnormal sperm shape (often with ICSI)
- Endometriosis or reduced ovarian reserve
- Unexplained infertility that has not responded to IUI
- Repeated pregnancy loss, when an embryo-based approach is advised
- Couples who need genetic screening of embryos
The IVF cycle, stage by stage
- Evaluation: hormone tests, pelvic ultrasound and semen analysis for both partners.
- Ovarian stimulation: daily injections help several follicles grow, with scans and blood tests every few days.
- Trigger and egg retrieval: a timed injection matures the eggs, which are collected under short anaesthesia.
- Fertilisation: eggs and sperm are combined by conventional IVF or by ICSI, and embryos are grown for several days.
- Embryo transfer: one or more selected embryos are placed in the uterus. Extra good embryos can be frozen.
- Pregnancy test: a blood test about two weeks after transfer, followed by an early scan if positive.
How long does IVF take?
A fresh cycle usually takes about four to six weeks from the start of medicines to the pregnancy test. A frozen embryo transfer is planned as a separate cycle, so the total journey can be longer if embryos are frozen or if genetic testing is done.
Preparing for IVF
Good preparation improves comfort and helps the treatment run smoothly: keep a balanced diet, stay active, avoid smoking and alcohol, manage thyroid and blood sugar, take only prescribed supplements and sleep well. Our blog explains an IVF diet plan and practical success tips.
Risks and limits
IVF involves medicines and procedures, so side effects such as bloating, mild discomfort or, rarely, ovarian hyperstimulation can occur. Multiple pregnancy is a known risk, which is why the number of embryos transferred is discussed with you. Success varies with age and diagnosis; if the first cycle does not work, your doctor reviews it and adjusts the plan (see why IVF may fail and the next step).
Where to start
Book a consultation with Dr. Deepa Seth to review your reports and decide the right treatment. Details of the service are on our IVF treatment and IVF process pages.
हिंदी में संक्षेप
IVF में अंडे और शुक्राणु को लैब में मिलाकर भ्रूण बनाया जाता है और फिर गर्भाशय में रखा जाता है। एक साइकल में आमतौर पर 4 से 6 हफ्ते लगते हैं। सफलता उम्र और कारण पर निर्भर करती है, इसलिए पहले पूरी जांच और डॉक्टर की सलाह जरूरी है।
Visit Sparsh in Chitaipur, Varanasi
Sparsh Mother & Child Hospital & IVF Fertility Center, Gokulpuram Colony, Chitaipur - Chunar Road, Kandwa, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221106. Open 24 hours. Call +91 80900 76144 or book an appointment online.
Frequently asked questions
How long does one IVF cycle take?
Is IVF treatment painful?
What is the difference between IVF and ICSI?
Do I need bed rest after embryo transfer?
What is the chance of pregnancy with IVF?
Ready to talk to a specialist?
Book a consultation and our team will confirm your appointment. Every plan is made after an individual examination.
Medical information is general and does not replace an examination. Outcomes vary between patients. For an emergency, use appropriate emergency services.