What is In Vitro Fertilization?
In vitro fertilization is an assisted reproduction method in which eggs and sperm, after being collected, are fertilized in the embryology laboratory. The embryos that are formed usually remain in the laboratory for 5 days and then embryo transfer is performed and the cryopreservation process is followed for the remaining embryos. In vitro fertilization is the assisted reproduction method with the highest success rates.
Are there more specialized methods included in IVF?
The first in vitro fertilization was performed in 1978 and since then it has evolved significantly in its individual fields. In most cases, the method of microfertilization (ICSI) is applied, in which the sperm is injected into the egg through a special needle, significantly increasing the chances of fertilization.
There are two main ways to achieve fertilization, which we utilize on a case-by-case basis at Fertilia. The first is the classic method of in vitro fertilization, where the eggs and sperm are placed in a dish with nutrient medium. The second method of fertilization is microfertilization (ICSI – Intracytoplasmic sperm injection), in which the embryologist places a sperm in each mature egg with a special needle. The decision to choose the fertilization method is made by the gynecologist – an assisted reproduction specialist, based on the quality of the sperm and the couple’s fertility history. Embryos formed through in vitro fertilization can undergo preimplantation genetic testing, that is, their chromosomes can be tested to determine if they carry any chromosomal abnormalities. At Fertilia, we apply preimplantation genetic testing when there are specific indications, such as advanced age of the woman or a history of miscarriages in the couple.
Why is the method of in vitro fertilization often associated with twin/multiple pregnancies?
This occurs when more than one embryo is transferred to the uterus and then implanted. The decision on the number of embryos to be transferred is made by the reproductive physician and the couple after discussion. The National Assisted Reproduction Authority sets limits for each age group of patients regarding the maximum number of embryos that are allowed to be transferred. During the procedure, the Fertilia medical team will take your history and thoroughly study all your tests in the context of investigating infertility. You will discuss treatment methods, your treatment plan and you may be asked to undergo further tests. The entire range of infertility tests can be performed in the state-of-the-art laboratories operating within the GENESIS clinic.
During your communication with the physician, Fertilia embryologists, who staff the unit’s state-of-the-art laboratory, will also participate. Throughout your treatment, Fertilia’s doctor, embryology and nursing staff will be available to answer any questions that may arise.
Do I need to take time off from work to undergo IVF treatment?
No. IVF treatment involves ovarian stimulation, which lasts 10-12 days and will require 3 to 5 ultrasound sessions with the fertility doctor. During this time, you can work normally. On the day of the egg retrieval at Fertilia, you will need to take time off from work and then you can return to work normally. From the day of embryo transfer onwards, you can also work, as long as your work is not accompanied by physical strain that could reduce the chances of success of your treatment.
Is there an age limit for IVF treatment?
There was a limit of 50 years for women, which was recently extended to 54 years, while there is no limit for men.
Are IVF medications covered by my health insurance?
If you are insured with EOPPY, you can go through the special IVF committee that will check your file and give you the opportunity to obtain the ovarian stimulation medications for free. You will be informed in detail about the committee and the preparation of the file by the experienced staff of Fertilia, who will be at your side throughout the preparation and submission phase of the file.
Is IVF a safe treatment method?
To date, it is estimated that more than 8 million children have been born using this method and their number continues to increase. IVF is a safe method of assisted reproduction, provided that all the rules set by international scientific organizations are followed, which we assure you at the state-of-the-art Fertilia In Vitro Fertilization Unit.
My doctor said I had good embryos but I didn't get pregnant. Could it be my uterus?
In some expectant mothers, the uterus presents severe anatomical abnormalities that are a cause of failure in embryo implantation such as the uterine septum or bicornuate uterus as well as the presence of submucosal fibroids and large polyps.
Even if such a finding is detected with the 3D ultrasound examination, it can be corrected with the hysteroscopy method.
I got pregnant very quickly with my 1st child, why can't I get pregnant with my 2nd?
If a woman easily got pregnant with her first child, this does not mean that she can easily get a second one. It is a given that the older a woman gets, the more difficult it becomes to get pregnant because her eggs are fewer in number and of lower quality.
Also, if changes occur in a woman’s health, then this can affect her fertility. For example, if endocrine problems arise, if she needs to take medication, if she undergoes gynecological surgery, all of these can be an obstacle to her trying to have a second child.
Of course, we should not forget the decline in male fertility as he gets older. The male factor is a frequent cause of infertility in couples who have had a child through natural conception and are unable to achieve a second pregnancy.
I am over 40. Can I freeze my eggs now?
Women over 40 years of age can also cryopreserve their eggs. However, the assisted reproduction specialist, based on the hormonal profile of each woman, must explain to her based on scientific data about the chances of achieving a pregnancy after thawing these eggs.
The quality and number of eggs decreases rapidly after 40. More ovarian stimulation cycles will be needed to have a satisfactory number of eggs for cryopreservation, for other women more natural cycles and their success rates will certainly be lower. In short, proper information and realistic expectations are needed!
The sooner a woman makes the decision to cryopreserve her eggs, the better the results we will have. Better egg quality, more eggs, higher rates of achieving a pregnancy in the future.
Can I proceed with the egg donation process if I have entered menopause? Or is it all over for me?
A woman’s period is not a prerequisite for the implantation of the embryo in the uterus.Any woman with a normal uterus without anatomical abnormalities, with or without menstruation, is suitable for accepting egg donation.A woman’s uterus does not age, but her ovaries do.