What is IVF?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technology (ART) where eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, fertilized with sperm in a laboratory, and the resulting embryo is transferred to the uterus. IVF helps bypass barriers such as blocked tubes, low sperm parameters, ovulatory disorders, endometriosis, and unexplained infertility.

Modern IVF in Pune, Maharashtra follows strict quality protocols: pre-treatment evaluation, controlled ovarian stimulation, ultrasound and hormone monitoring, safe egg retrieval, IVF/ICSI fertilization, embryo culture, optional genetic testing (when indicated), and a carefully timed embryo transfer with luteal support.

Causes & Symptoms

Common causes of infertility in women

• Ovulatory disorders (e.g., PCOS, hypothalamic dysfunction, thyroid issues, hyperprolactinaemia).
• Tubal factors (blocked or damaged fallopian tubes due to infections, previous surgeries, or endometriosis).
• Endometriosis affecting egg quality, pelvic anatomy, or implantation.
• Diminished ovarian reserve and age-related decline in egg quantity/quality.
• Uterine factors (fibroids distorting the cavity, polyps, adhesions, congenital anomalies).

Common causes of infertility in men

• Low sperm count, poor motility or morphology (oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia).
• Obstruction or ejaculatory disorders, varicocele.
• Hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, prior infections, or testicular injury.

Symptoms/signs that warrant evaluation

• Inability to conceive after 12 months of regular intercourse (6 months if age ≥ 35).
• Irregular or absent periods, very painful periods, pelvic pain.
• History of pelvic infections, endometriosis, or prior reproductive surgery.
• Abnormal semen analysis or sexual dysfunction.

Non-Surgical / Lifestyle Care

Optimizing health before IVF improves outcomes and reduces risks. Dr. Akhileshwar Singh emphasizes the following:

• Track ovulation and menstrual cycles; correct thyroid or prolactin disorders if present.
• Achieve a healthy BMI through balanced nutrition and regular physical activity.
• Stop smoking and vaping; avoid recreational drugs. Limit alcohol and caffeine.
• Prioritize sleep (7–9 hours/night) and manage stress with mindfulness, yoga, or counseling.
• Take folic acid (typically 400–800 mcg/day) preconception; discuss vitamin D and iron if deficient.
• Update vaccines as advised; manage chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension) tightly.
• For male partners: support testicular health with lifestyle changes; avoid excessive heat exposure to the groin and anabolic steroids.

Note: Supplements and herbal remedies should be discussed with your specialist to avoid interactions during IVF.

Treatment & Surgical Options

1) Pre-IVF evaluation

Includes detailed history, pelvic ultrasound, ovarian reserve tests (AMH, antral follicle count), infection screening, uterine cavity assessment, and semen analysis. Individualized planning minimizes complications and optimizes the protocol.

2) Ovarian stimulation

Daily injectable gonadotropins stimulate multiple follicles. Antagonist or agonist protocols are chosen based on ovarian reserve and risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Monitoring uses transvaginal ultrasounds and estradiol levels.

3) Trigger and egg retrieval

When follicles are mature, an hCG or GnRH-agonist trigger is given. Egg retrieval is a short, ultrasound-guided procedure under sedation. Most patients resume normal activities within 24–48 hours.

4) Fertilization: IVF vs ICSI

Standard IVF co-incubates eggs with prepared sperm. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) injects a single sperm directly into the egg, often used for male factor infertility or prior fertilization failure.

5) Embryo culture and assessment

Embryos are cultured to day 3 (cleavage) or day 5–6 (blastocyst). Selection may use morphology and time-lapse monitoring. Preimplantation genetic testing (when indicated) can screen for chromosomal aneuploidy or specific genetic conditions.

6) Embryo transfer

A soft catheter places the embryo into the uterine cavity. Fresh transfer or frozen embryo transfer (FET) is chosen based on hormone levels, endometrial readiness, and OHSS risk. Luteal support (typically progesterone) follows.

7) Cryopreservation

Vitrification safely freezes surplus good-quality embryos for future use, improving cumulative live birth rates per retrieval.

8) Donor and advanced options

Donor eggs/sperm or embryo donation may be recommended in severe ovarian insufficiency, genetic indications, or azoospermia. Surgical sperm retrieval (e.g., TESA/PESA) can assist obstructive or non-obstructive azoospermia cases.

Safety, success rates, and risks

Success varies by age, ovarian reserve, embryo quality, and uterine factors. Younger patients generally have higher success. Risks are uncommon but include OHSS, multiple pregnancy (reduced by single embryo transfer), ectopic pregnancy, and procedure-related discomfort or bleeding. Careful protocol selection and embryo number limits significantly mitigate these risks. For evidence-based guidance, see professional society resources such as ASRM guidelines.

IVF vs Ovulation Induction (OI)/Timed Intercourse: OI is suitable for anovulation with patent tubes and normal semen; IVF offers higher success when tubes are blocked, age is advanced, or other treatments fail.

IVF vs IUI (Intrauterine Insemination): IUI is less invasive and lower cost but has lower success per cycle; IVF provides better outcomes with moderate/severe male factor, tubal disease, or after multiple failed IUIs.

IVF vs ICSI: ICSI is a fertilization technique within IVF, preferred in male factor infertility or prior fertilization failure. It does not necessarily increase success in all cases without male factor.

Fresh vs Frozen Transfer: Frozen transfers allow optimized endometrial preparation and reduce OHSS risk; fresh transfer may be appropriate when hormones and lining are favorable.

Who should consider IVF treatment?

• Women with blocked/damaged tubes or moderate-to-severe endometriosis.
• Couples with significant male factor infertility.
• Low ovarian reserve or age-related infertility where timing is critical.
• Unexplained infertility after unsuccessful OI/IUI cycles.
• Genetic conditions requiring preimplantation genetic testing.

Recovery & Aftercare

• After egg retrieval: expect mild cramping/bloating; rest the day of procedure, resume light activity next day.
• After embryo transfer: routine daily activity is acceptable; avoid heavy lifting/high-impact exercise for a few days.
• Medications: take luteal support exactly as prescribed.
• When to call: severe pain, excessive bloating, breathlessness, fever, heavy bleeding, or fainting (possible OHSS or other complications).
• Pregnancy test: typically 10–14 days after transfer, as advised.

FAQs on IVF treatment

Consult Dr. Akhileshwar Singh

If you are exploring IVF treatment in Pune, Maharashtra, schedule a consultation with Dr. Akhileshwar Singh at the Dr Akhileshwar Singh clinic. Your visit will include a thorough evaluation and a clear, personalized plan aligned with international best practices.