IVF treatment steps

Stimulation with genetically engineered FSH or HMG preparation has proven to be effective. Stimulation begins on the second or third day of the cycle with injections of these hormones. To prevent premature ovulation, FSH or HMG stimulation is combined with a GnRH analogue or a GnRH antagonist. The start of GnRH analogue administration is either already in the second half of the pre-cycle (long protocol) or it starts with the stimulation (short protocol) or, in the case of the GnRH antagonist protocol, during FSH or HMG stimulation.

The hormone levels, the thickness of the endometrium and the number of follicles with optimal size (about 20 mm) are used to make the decision. About 40 hours later spontaneous ovulation would occur, i.e. the oocytes would be lost for further treatment. Therefore, we plan to retrieve the oocytes from the follicle after about 36 hours (puncture).

If there are no complications, you are discharged the same day despite general anesthesia.

Then the sperm cells are purified in the laboratory and concentrated by special preparation methods (swim-up method).
In the case of particularly low sperm count, other processing methods and, of course, ICSI are possible.

Conventional in vitro fertilization requires approximately 100,000 motile sperm cells per egg.

The egg and sperm cells remain together in an incubator at 37°C for about 18 hours. After this time, it is checked whether sperm penetration into the egg and fertilization has occurred (impregnation). During further incubation in the incubator, the fertilized eggs divide, and the desired number of embryos is subsequently transferred to the uterus. Excess impregnated eggs can be frozen and used at a later time.

ICSI

If the sperm quality is not sufficient for IVF, ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is performed. In this method, a sperm cell is specifically selected and injected directly into the egg.

The embryo or embryos are transferred directly into the uterine cavity using a thin catheter under ultrasound control. This transfer (embryo transfer) is generally painless, it is done in the clinic on an examination chair.

If your partner would like to be present during the embryo transfer, he is very welcome.

During the following two weeks, normal physical activity is recommended, and you will mainly receive progestogens as medication to support possible implantation. After two weeks you will receive an appointment for the first pregnancy blood test.

Behavior after embryo transfer

During the treatment, please remember to ensure adequate sleep and a healthy diet. Pay special attention to a diet rich in vitamins and proteins. It is recommended to take 800 µg folic acid and 150 µg iodide per day. Please drink enough (e.g. mineral water) and avoid nicotine and alcohol.

It is very important to have a positive and hopeful attitude and a balanced mood.