In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a multi-step assisted reproductive technology process where a person’s ovaries are stimulated, using injectable hormone medications for up to two weeks. Throughout this stimulation phase, close monitoring via ultrasounds and blood tests is conducted to track follicle growth and timing to produce multiple mature eggs. These eggs are then removed (retrieved) from the person’s body under light sedation for comfort. A physician uses ultrasound guidance to collect the eggs without making any cuts or incisions on the person.
Once retrieved, these mature eggs are combined with either partner’s sperm or donor sperm, outside of the uterus within a controlled laboratory environment, often utilizing specialized techniques like ICSI to facilitate fertilization and create embryos. The resulting embryos are cultured for several days, and one or more are then carefully inserted (transferred) into the mother’s womb or into the womb of the person who will be carrying the pregnancy to develop into a fetus. Alternatively, remaining high-quality embryos can be frozen using advanced vitrification technology for a future transfer cycle (also known as embryo freezing or embryo banking), offering flexibility for future family building.
Following the embryo transfer procedure, there is typically a waiting period of approximately nine to fourteen days before a blood test, known as a beta hCG test, is conducted to measure hormone levels and confirm if implantation has successfully occurred and pregnancy has been achieved. This period is often described as the “two-week wait” and can be emotionally demanding; our dedicated care team remains available to provide ongoing guidance and supportive resources throughout this crucial final phase of the cycle.