IVF Full Form, Methods, Benefits, IVF Success Rate

The IVF full form is In vitro fertilisation. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a medical procedure commonly referred to as Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) for achieving pregnancy. IVF involves fertilising eggs from a female donor with sperm from a male donor outside the woman's body. The resulting embryo, also known as a zygote, is cultured in specialised laboratory conditions.

Indications for the Use of IVF (IVF Full Form)

• Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes: When the fallopian tubes are obstructed or impaired, hindering the natural union of the egg and sperm, IVF can provide an alternative method for fertilisation.
• Male infertility or low sperm mobility: In cases of male infertility or reduced sperm mobility, IVF can be performed using donor sperm to increase the chances of successful fertilisation.
• Uterine problems: If a woman has uterine issues such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, or a weak uterus that hinders conception, IVF can offer a viable option for achieving pregnancy.
• Unexplained fertility issues or genetic disorders: When there are unexplained fertility problems or underlying genetic disorders affecting conception, IVF can be a suitable approach to bypass these challenges and increase the likelihood of successful pregnancy.

Method Of IVF

• Step 1: During the initial step, fertility treatments are administered to stimulate the development of eggs in the female body. Since not all eggs may mature or fertilise successfully after retrieval, a larger number of eggs is required.
• Step 2: The second step involves a minor surgical procedure to retrieve the eggs. Under the guidance of ultrasound scans, a hollow needle is inserted through the pelvic cavity to collect ovarian follicles from the ovary. The follicular fluids containing the available eggs are then carefully examined.
• Step 3: In the third stage, the eggs are fertilised with the male partner's sperm in a laboratory setting. The fertilised eggs are closely monitored to ensure successful fertilisation and cell division. The resulting embryos are allowed to mature for a period of 2 to 6 days before they are transferred to the woman's uterus.
• Step 4: During the fourth step, a 4 to 5-day-old embryo is transferred to the female uterus using a thin catheter or tube. Implantation of the embryo typically takes place approximately 6 to 10 days after egg retrieval. The woman is then monitored around 9 to 12 days after the embryo transfer to confirm the successful implantation.

Benefits Of IVF

• IVF is especially beneficial for individuals with blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, as it allows for successful conception using their own eggs.
• Women with conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), characterised by hormonal imbalances and irregular menstrual cycles, can also benefit from IVF as it helps them achieve pregnancy.
• IVF can be a viable option for single mothers or single women who wish to have a child, contributing to the empowerment of the female population.
• The process of IVF allows for thorough examination and evaluation of embryos, helping identify any potential health issues in the future child.
• IVF allows healthy individuals to donate eggs, enabling those who previously had difficulty conceiving due to a lack of mature eggs to have a successful pregnancy.

The Underlying Objective of the IVF Process

IVF Success Rate

• Mothers' Age : The mother's age is a significant factor affecting the success rate of IVF. Generally, younger women have higher success rates compared to older women. This is because the quality and quantity of eggs decline as a woman ages, making it more challenging to achieve a successful pregnancy.
• Embryo Health: The health and quality of the embryos used during the IVF process greatly impact the success rate. Healthy embryos with good genetic characteristics are more likely to implant successfully in the uterus, resulting in a successful pregnancy.
• Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle factors can also be some of the benefits for the success of IVF. Factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, body weightage, and drug use can affect fertility and the outcome of the IVF procedure. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following medical recommendations can improve the chances of success.
• Previous Cause for Infertility: The underlying cause of infertility can also impact the success rate of IVF. Different causes, such as hormonal imbalances, blocked fallopian tubes, or male factor infertility, can affect the chances of success. Understanding and addressing the specific cause of infertility can benefit IVF
• Reproductive Health History: A woman's reproductive health history, including any previous pregnancies or miscarriages, can influence the success of IVF . Women who have had successful pregnancies before may have a higher chance of success with IVF than those who have experienced recurrent miscarriages or fertility issues.

Check NEET Exam Important Links