IVF Process FAQ
Common questions about the IVF treatment process, from initial consultation to embryo transfer.
How long does one IVF cycle take?
A typical IVF cycle takes 4-6 weeks from the start of medication to embryo transfer. This includes 10-14 days of ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, 3-6 days of embryo development, and the transfer procedure.
What happens during egg retrieval?
Egg retrieval is a minor surgical procedure performed under sedation. Using ultrasound guidance, a thin needle is inserted through the vaginal wall to aspirate follicles and collect eggs. The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes.
How many embryos should be transferred?
Most reproductive endocrinologists recommend single embryo transfer (SET) for patients under 38 with good-quality blastocysts. This reduces the risk of multiple pregnancies while maintaining high success rates.
What is the difference between Day 3 and Day 5 transfer?
Day 3 embryos (cleavage stage) have 6-8 cells, while Day 5 embryos (blastocysts) have 100+ cells. Blastocyst transfer generally has higher implantation rates because natural selection has already occurred.
How many IVF cycles does it typically take?
Success rates vary by age and diagnosis. About 50-60% of patients under 35 succeed within 1-2 cycles. Cumulative success rates increase with additional cycles, with most pregnancies occurring within 3-4 cycles.
Can I exercise during IVF?
Light to moderate exercise is generally safe during early stimulation. However, once follicles grow larger (typically after day 5-6 of stims), high-impact activities should be avoided due to the risk of ovarian torsion.
What are the side effects of IVF medications?
Common side effects include bloating, mood changes, breast tenderness, headaches, and injection site reactions. More serious but rare complications include OHSS (ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome).
How soon after retrieval can I return to work?
Most patients take 1-2 days off after retrieval. Mild cramping and bloating are normal. Strenuous activities should be avoided for about a week.
What is a frozen embryo transfer (FET)?
A FET involves thawing and transferring previously cryopreserved embryos. FET cycles are less physically demanding than fresh cycles and have comparable or higher success rates due to optimal endometrial preparation.
Does IVF increase the risk of birth defects?
Large studies show IVF babies have a very slightly increased risk of certain conditions, but the absolute risk remains low. Most experts attribute this to underlying infertility factors rather than the IVF process itself.