What is In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)?

In-vitro fertilization (IVF) is an advanced assisted reproductive technology in which eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory setting. The resulting embryos are carefully cultured, and one or more are transferred into the uterus to achieve pregnancy. IVF can use a patient’s own eggs and sperm or donor eggs, sperm, or embryos.

Who is a Good Candidate for IVF?

IVF may be recommended for patients who:

  • Have blocked, damaged, or removed fallopian tubes
  • Experience severe male infertility (low sperm count, motility, or abnormal morphology)
  • Have tried intrauterine insemination (IUI) multiple times without success
  • Are of advanced maternal age or have a low ovarian reserve
  • Have certain genetic conditions and wish to use preimplantation genetic testing (PGT)
  • Require donor eggs, sperm, or embryos
  • Have unexplained infertility after standard evaluations

IVF Treatment Process

  • Ovarian Stimulation – Fertility medications are used to encourage the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs.
  • Egg Retrieval – A minor procedure under light sedation is performed to collect eggs from the ovaries.
  • Fertilization – Eggs are combined with sperm in the lab, either through conventional IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
  • Embryo Culture – Fertilized eggs (embryos) are grown for 3–5 days under close monitoring.
  • Embryo Transfer – A selected healthy embryo is placed into the uterus.
  • Pregnancy Test – About 10–14 days after transfer, a blood test confirms if pregnancy has been achieved.
  • (Optional) Embryo Freezing – Extra healthy embryos can be frozen for future use.

Key Benefits of IVF

  • Higher Success Rates – Especially for patients with complex fertility issues.
  • Genetic Screening Options – PGT can identify chromosomal or genetic conditions before embryo transfer.
  • Flexible Family-Building Options – Can use donor eggs, sperm, or embryos; can be combined with surrogacy.
  • Controlled Timing – Ability to freeze embryos for future pregnancy attempts.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

To learn more about artificial insemination or schedule your consultation, contact Dr. Meng’s office today or book an appointment online. Our team is here to guide you with care and clarity.