If you're reading this article, chances are you're about to embark on an exciting and nerve-wracking journey- one cycle of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don't worry; we've got you covered with a comprehensive guide. Here's everything you need to know from start to finish.
Before the Cycle
Before starting your first cycle of IVF, there are some crucial steps that both partners must take:
1. Medical Exam
Both partners must be examined by a fertility specialist before heading off for IVF. This exam helps determine whether or not any underlying health concerns might affect the results of IVF.
2. Medication Review
To optimize the success rate, it is essential that couples prepare their medications well ahead of time.
3. Get Your Finances in Order
Let's talk money- IVF is expensive! A single round can set you back $12,000 - $15,000.
Getting Started with Your First Round Of IVF
Now let's get started with what goes into your first cycle of in-vitro fertilization:
4. Timing is Everything
Once the menstrual bleeding begins on day two or three, treatment starts right away – no messing around!
5. Blood Test & Ultrasound
A blood test will help measure hormone levels in preparation for possible medication changes midway through the protocol when things aren’t quite lining up as they should be (and believe me- they almost never do!)
Next up - transvaginal ultrasound which allows doctors visualize ovaries just prior egg retrieval process.
The Next Steps
The next few days include several critical stages that typically happen within five to ten days after starting fertility medication:
7.Follicle Stimulating Hormone Injections
On day three or four, your doctor will prescribe Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) injections to help follicles grow in preparation for retrieval. FSH can be administered via self-injection and it's not as bad as it sounds. (Okay, who are we kidding? It stings like hell each time!)
8.Vaginal Ultrasound Scan
As you proceed through the stages above, a vaginal ultrasound scan assesses follicular development over the following two weeks- everything is under scrutiny!
9.Transvaginal Egg Retrieval
Once follicles have matured after almost ten days of medication-, egg retrieval happens- quite an adrenaline rush!
What Can You Expect After The Procedure?
After having your eggs retrieved from your body, there are some common side effects that women typically experience.
### 10.Cramping and Bloating It’s uncommon to stop cramping or bloating immediately post-retrieval. Don't worry; this is perfectly normal - say goodbye to those cute outfits!
11.Rest, Rest & More Rest.
Your body needs recovery so take plenty of bed rest during these few days although exercise could actually ease discomfort.
12.Little or Nothing from Sperm Sample?
In case sperm sample is little or produces nothing on egg retrieval day --no worries! Any available sperms shall then be permitted intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)- magic will still happen; relax…
Finally- Embryo Transfer
The moment you’ve been waiting for – embryo transfer!
###13.The timing before the big day Embryos need proper growth within forty-eight hours really important predetermining how many embryos get transferred eventually
###14.Open Your Mind To Suggestions Be prepared to hear various suggestions regarding what position would increase chances of implantation but do not stress out if they aren’t followed strictly.
15. Transfer Day
The day caffeine abstained from months arrives- quite a huge adrenaline rush.
###16.Waiting Game Now that the embryo transfer is complete, all you can do it wait! In two weeks or so, you’ll take a pregnancy test to see if in-vitro fertilization was successful.
Good luck with your first cycle of IVF- fingers crossed for big success and congrats on this step to parenthood (Hello Mommy and Daddy)!