IVF

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) used to treat infertility that has failed to respond to other medical or surgical interventions. IVF literally means “fertilisation in glass” and involves the fertilisation of the egg by the sperm in an incubator outside the body, followed by transfer of the embryo back into the uterus.

IVF Treatment Procedure

The female IVF treatment cycle generally follows these stages:

• Pre-treatment tests and preparation.
• IVF treatment information and discussion.
• Preparation of ovaries and uterus by intranasal spray (in some instances).
• Follicle growth treatment (stimulation by injection).
• Ovulation timing (based on blood tests and ultrasound scans).
• Egg collection.
• Insemination of eggs with sperm.
• Assessment of fertilisation.
• Culturing of the embryos for two to five days.
• Embryo transfer to the uterus.
• Pregnancy test (blood test).
• Ultrasound if pregnant.
• Referral to your chosen antenatal care provider.

Who is IVF recommended for?

IVF was developed to treat infertility caused by tubal damage, endometriosis, sperm disorders and unexplained factors. Whether you need IVF will depend on the diagnosis of your infertility and the treatment plan required addressing your condition.

Are IVF Babies Healthy?

IVF babies are the same as babies born through natural conception. However, because of the older age of many women undergoing IVF, we encourage patients to undergo Pre-Implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) to identify any genetic abnormalities.

The world’s first IVF baby, Louise Brown, was born in 1978 in England. Since then, about 5 million babies have been born as a result of IVF.

Cost of Treatment

We understand that each patient’s fertility needs are different. This is reflected in our fee schedule, which is structured around your individual plan and means costs can vary between patients according to the different levels of treatment required. The exact structure of these costs can be discussed fully with you once a treatment plan has been established by your specialist.