In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a process that was developed in the 1970s to overcome infertility. Since that time, IVF has helped countless people create the families they so desire. The term ‘In Vitro’ actually means “outside of the body” which is where fertilization happens during this process. A simple explanation for IVF is that eggs (oocytes) are retrieved from a woman’s ovaries and fertilized with sperm within an IVF laboratory. Once fertilization happens, an embryo is created. The embryo is then transferred back to the woman’s uterus for implantation to occur naturally.

A common misconception is that IVF is just the procedure itself.  One round of IVF is actually called a ‘cycle’ because it works in tandem with your menstrual cycle. Typically, there is a month of preparation before the much anticipated IVF procedure month. Deciding to move forward with IVF is a big commitment – emotionally, physically, and financially. The good news? At The Fertility Center (TFC), your team of dedicated physicians and nurses are here to help you throughout each step of your journey.

Whether you’re an established patient who is ready to move on to IVF or you’re interested in becoming a patient here at TFC for the purpose of pursuing IVF, the first step is to speak to one of our physicians to determine if this is the best treatment option for you. Once your doctor has had the opportunity to review this with you, you can then move forward with paying your IVF deposit and scheduling your ART consult with one of our experienced IVF nurse coordinators.

We realize that this process can be overwhelming with all that it requires. That is why we have you meet with one of our nurses for this one-on-one appointment that details what you can expect, from start to finish. This consultation allows you to address any questions or concerns you may have about the process. You are encouraged to ask any and all questions so that you fully understand each step of the process and are comfortable with all aspects of your treatment plan. No question is too small – we are proud to be your greatest source of support.

Our IVF program consists of four steps:

Potential Risks

The medications you will be taking to stimulate egg growth have been proven safe for use; however, there are potential side effects and risks.

These side effects and risks may include:

1. Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
   OHSS is when the ovaries are over stimulated and become very large with cysts. In severe cases, fluid collects in the abdomen and lungs, blood clotting problems may occur, fluid and electrolyte imbalances can ensue and rarely, life-threatening complications may arise. OHSS may require hospitalization. Severe hyperstimulation occurs in less than 1% of cases. Deaths have occurred with severe OHSS. Due to these risks, your procedure may be canceled if the risk for hyperstimulation is high. 
2. Ovarian Torsion
   The ovary twists around its blood supply causing a decrease in blood flow. This is rare (less than 1% of all assisted reproduction procedures), but if it occurs, it may require surgical removal of the affected ovary.
3. Multiple Gestation
   Multiple gestations (twins, triplets, etc.) are a risk with this procedure, occurring about 25% of the time for younger women. Most of these multiple gestations are twins. As with any multiple gestation, there is an increased chance of preterm birth. Some of the major problems associated with preterm birth may include respiratory distress, brain hemorrhage, and nervous system problems such as blindness and cerebral palsy. It is your decision in consultation with your physician as to how many embryos will be returned to the uterus. If a high risk multiple pregnancy does occur, selective fetal reduction with an outside provider may be an option.
4. Egg Retrieval Risks
   If you have a transvaginal egg retrieval or embryo transfer, the chance of a complication is very low (approximately 3 in 1,000 cases). Complications may include, but are not limited to, injury to the intestines, blood vessels, bladder, infection and/or bleeding. In the unlikely event of physical injury resulting from your participation in this procedure, it is important to understand that the costs of such treatment will be at your own expense and that financial compensation from your insurance carrier may not be available.
5. Ectopic Pregnancy
   The risk of an ectopic (tubal) pregnancy is slightly higher than in natural conception, approximately 2-5%.
6. Ovarian Cancer
   Some studies have suggested the possibility of a slightly increased risk of ovarian cancer.

Our embryology lab is equipped to handle a multitude of ART techniques including but not limited to:

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
Time Lapse Photography
Blastocyst Culture
Assisted Hatching
Embryo biopsy for Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
Embryo Cryopreservation (embryo freezing)
Oocyte Cryopreservation (egg freezing)

An Introduction to In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

IVF Pre-Procedure Month

Egg Retrieval Process

Embryo Transfer Procedure

IVF Medications

How Many Eggs to Choose for an IVF Procedure

IVF Success Rates

Male Testing