In Vitro Fertilization)
What is IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)?
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is an advanced fertility treatment where an egg and sperm are fertilized outside the body in a specialized lab setting. The resulting embryo is carefully grown and then transferred into the woman’s uterus, increasing the chances of pregnancy.
IVF is often recommended for couples experiencing:
Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
Low sperm count or motility
Advanced maternal age
Endometriosis or PCOS
Unexplained infertility
Failed attempts with simpler treatments like IUI
What is IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)? Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), also known as artificial insemination, is a simpler and less invasive fertility treatment. In this procedure, specially prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus near the time of ovulation to enhance the chances of fertilization.
When is IUI recommended? Unexplained infertility
Mild endometriosis
Low sperm count or motility
Ejaculation issues
Couples looking for a less invasive first-line treatment
IUI Treatment Timeline Day 3: Baseline ultrasound and blood tests; medication may be prescribed to stimulate egg growth
Day 8–10: Follicle and endometrial assessment
Day 11–13: Trigger injection to mature the egg
Day 13–15: IUI is performed 36–40 hours post-trigger using a thin catheter
Note: Timelines vary depending on individual response to medication.
What is IVF-ICSI (Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection)? ICSI is an advanced form of IVF where a single healthy sperm is directly injected into a mature egg using a micro-injection technique. This is especially helpful in cases where there are severe male fertility factors or previous fertilization failures.
IVF-ICSI is beneficial for: Low sperm count or motility
Poor sperm morphology
Previous failed fertilization
PCOS or low ovarian reserve
Retrograde ejaculation
Vasectomy cases
Immunological fertility issues
IVF-ICSI Treatment Steps (Approx. 21–25 Days) Ovarian Stimulation (Day 2–10) Hormonal injections stimulate multiple follicles; monitored via ultrasound and blood tests.
Trigger Shot & Egg Retrieval (OPU) Once follicles mature, a trigger injection is given. Eggs are retrieved under sedation using a fine needle.
Sperm Collection & Fertilization A semen sample is processed, and ICSI is performed to fertilize the eggs in the lab.
Embryo Development Fertilized embryos are cultured for 3–5 days in a controlled lab environment.
Optional Genetic Testing PGT may be done to screen for genetic or chromosomal disorders.
Embryo Transfer A healthy embryo is transferred into the uterus. This is a painless, non-sedated procedure.
Pregnancy Monitoring Blood tests are done 10–14 days later to confirm pregnancy.
Embryo Freezing (if needed) Extra embryos can be cryopreserved for future use.
Choosing the Right Path: IUI or IVF? IUI is often the first step for younger women (<38 years) with mild fertility issues.
IVF may be recommended for women over 35, with poor ovarian reserve, blocked tubes, or couples with significant male factor infertility.
Some couples may start with 2–3 IUI cycles before moving to IVF based on time, age, or medical history.