A Complete Guide To IVF Treatment & Medicines To Consider

It is not easy to embark on an IVF journey. For some people, it's a ray of hope, while others may have lots of questions. Where does one get started? How does medication work? What might you expect as you go through this journey? 

This blog gives an overview of the IVF journey and the medications involved with it. To make you understand every single pattern line concerning the IVF process—from beginners to those who have already started—how this works with infertility treatment for IVF.

How is IVF done step by step? 

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) involves using a lab setting to fertilise an egg with sperm. After fertilisation, the egg, also known as an embryo, is placed inside the woman's uterus. Infertility patients frequently choose IVF since it offers hope in cases where other therapies have failed. Here is a step-by-step detailed explanation of the IVF procedure:

1. Ovarian stimulation: The ovaries are stimulated with hormone drugs to increase their egg production.

2. Egg retrieval: Eggs are collected by a minor surgical procedure, which involves extracting the ovaries from where they have matured.

3. Fertilisation: In a lab setting, collected eggs and sperm are combined to facilitate fertilisation.

4. Embryo culture: Within the next 3 to 5 days, the fertilised eggs develop into embryos.

5. Embryo transfer: The implantation of one or more embryos within the uterus.

6. Pregnancy test: A test is performed two weeks later to determine whether or not the implantation occurred.

How long is IVF from start to finish?

The IVF treatment is unique for everyone, But ideally, one complete IVF treatment process may take 6-8 weeks from consultation to embryo transfer. The time taken for one IVF cycle is as follows: 

• Consultation and pre-testing (1-2 weeks): This includes an initial consultation, an examination of past medical records, and tests to evaluate the fertility status.
• Ovarian stimulation (8-12 days): Hormonal injections to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
• Egg retrieval (1 day): A small procedure to collect the mature eggs.
• Fertilisation and embryo development (3-5 days): The retrieved eggs are fertilised with sperm in a lab, and the embryos are monitored as they develop.
• Post-transfer and pregnancy testing (2 weeks): This is performed to ensure the implantation and pregnancy. Blood tests are performed to test for pregnancy. If positive, ultrasound and follow-ups are scheduled.

What medications are given during IVF?

The IVF medications can effectively improve the treatment outcomes of the IVF procedure. These medicines are used to stimulate the ovaries, control the growth of the egg and prepare the uterus to receive an embryo.

1. Gonadotropins: Such as FSH and LSH, help in the production of multiple eggs in the ovaries.

2. HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin): Initiates the last stage of egg development and gets them ready for extraction.

3. GnRH antagonists: Regulate the release of hormones to delay ovulation.  

4. Progesterone: Prepares the uterine lining for the implantation of the embryo by supporting it.

The success of the process depends on the function that IVF medicines play. The individual's response will determine the dosage and particular drugs. 

What are the side effects of IVF?

Where IVF pregnancy emerges as hope to many, it has some side effects, such as 

• Bruising or soreness at the injection location
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Breast tenderness
• Bloating
• Hot flashes
• Mood swings
• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
• Itching and skin-related issues at the site of injection
• Emotional stress
• Multiple births
• Pelvic infection

What is the success rate of IVF on the first try?

The success rate of IVF decreases as the age of the person providing the eggs increases. The following success rates are provided by the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technologies (SART):

What Does IVF Treatment Cost in India?

The cost of IVF treatment is generally low in India when compared to other countries. However, It’s still expensive. A single IVF cycle will cost you between ₹1,00,000 to ₹2,50,000 depending on the clinic, location and the doctor’s reputation. The costings of IVF treatment are:

• Testing and consultation: ₹10,000 and ₹20,000
• Medications: ₹30,000 and ₹50,000
• Procedure cost for IVF: ₹80,000–₹1,50,000

Some clinics offer packages comprised of many IVF cycles, which can save patients money in case of repetitive cycles.

5 Home remedies to complement IVF treatment

Home remedies that can complement IVF treatment can be a supportive approach to improve overall health and aid in effective outcomes. Here are some home remedies that you can try:

1. A balanced diet

Healthy eating can complement IVF treatment and also improve the overall health of an individual. During IVF treatment, your body needs several natural nutrients, and you should avoid eating food that has more carbs and trans fat.

Essential nutrients during IVF treatment include:

• Zinc and folate: Try adding foods such as eggs, beetroot, papaya, dark chocolate, and spinach.
• Antioxidants: Consider foods such as jamun, tomatoes, green tea, and ginger.
• Vitamin D: Try to add vitamin D-rich foods such as fatty fish, mushrooms, carrots, and oranges to your diet.
• Omega 3 fatty acids: Cauliflower, soybeans, rajma (kidney beans), and flaxseeds are rich in omega 3 fatty acids.
   

2. Acupuncture
 

Acupuncture can help fertility in several ways, such as 

• Balancing hormones: It triggers the endocrine system to control the hormones that influence menstruation, ovulation, and pregnancy. It also helps balance progesterone, estrogen, FSH, and LH levels, which can help in IVF treatment.
• Increases blood flow: It enhances blood circulation to reproductive organs like the ovaries and uterus. It may also improve egg quality, quantity, and the lining of the uterus, which increases the chance of a healthy pregnancy.

3. Stress management 

Long-term stress can affect the IVF process and the general health of a person. Consider stress management techniques such as: 

• Meditation and deep breaths: They help in stress management and promote relaxation.
• Yoga: Gentle yoga can not only reduce stress but can also promote physical well-being.

4. Adequate sleep

Adequate Sleeping has a positive impact on the release of reproductive hormones. It might improve IVF results and fertility. Therefore, in order to improve the results of IVF cycles, you should get 7-8 hours of moderate sleep each night.

5. Healthy lifestyle choices

Lifestyle choices might have an impact on overall well-being and fertility. Here are some lifestyles you can follow:

• Physical activity in moderation: Talk to your doctor and create a customised exercise plan that will support your treatment.
• Alcohol and smoking: Though it's common knowledge, a reminder is needed—these affect your overall health, including fertility.

What should I do after unsuccessful IVF treatment?

It is normal to feel disappointed after the failure of your IVF treatment.

However, it is advisable to explore the following options:

1. Attempt an additional IVF cycle: If the first cycle is unsuccessful, the doctor will probably suggest the second.

2. Consider seeking an egg or sperm donor: If there are any problems with the quality of eggs or sperm, consider seeking a healthy donor.

3. Examine surrogacy or adoption: These options could be a way for couples to become parents if they have tried IVF several times and are still unable to conceive.

The expert handling your case will advise you on the best course of action, given the specifics of your situation. 

Expert take on IVF

Dr Supriya Puranik, Director at 9M Fertility and Senior Gynaecologist at Ankura Hospital in Pune states that “IVF can address various infertility issues, including blocked fallopian tubes, severe male infertility, and unexplained infertility. Genetic Screening Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) can be used during IVF to screen for genetic disorders, increasing the chances of a healthy pregnancy.”

Personal stories on IVF

Isha Ambani Piramal, a businesswoman and daughter of Mukesh Ambani, said, "If there is modern technology in the world today, why not use it to have children? It should be something you’re excited about, not something you should have to hide." 

She also said, “I’m very quick to say that my twins were conceived via IVF because that’s how we’ll normalise it, right? Nobody should feel isolated or ashamed. It’s a difficult process."
 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
 

1. Can you get pregnant during IVF?

Yes, you can get pregnant during IVF. The process involves fertilising eggs with sperm in a lab and then transferring the resulting embryos into the uterus. If the embryos implant successfully, pregnancy occurs.

2. Is IVF painful?

IVF can involve some discomfort, but many people find it manageable. The hormone injections may cause mild pain or bruising at the injection site. Egg retrieval can lead to cramping, but sedation is typically used to minimise discomfort. Overall, experiences vary from person to person.

3. What is the hardest part of IVF?

IVF can involve some discomfort, but many people find it manageable. The hormone injections may cause mild pain or bruising at the injection site. Egg retrieval can result in cramps, but sedation is used to decrease discomfort. The experience can vary from person to person.

4. What age is good for IVF?

The ideal age for IVF is typically between 30 and 35 years. Success rates generally decline after 35, particularly after 40. However, each person's situation is unique, so it’s important to consult with a fertility specialist for personalised advice.

Final thoughts
 

Starting an IVF journey is both stressful and hopeful. This structured process works to cure infertility with the help of steps like ovarian stimulation and embryo transfer, which involve medications for their functioning. It is true that IVF calls for significant expenses in India, which is still a far better alternative to other financially strong countries. 

A balanced diet and stress management can also work in favor of a patient. But in the end, IVF is a deeply intimate experience and one that people need to support and understand. 

As Isha Ambani Piramal said, “This is a journey to parenthood and finding hope and joy in it. We should all rather look up to the science of modern times than stigmatise it.”

References
 

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562266/
2. Eskew AM, Jungheim ES. A History of Developments to Improve in vitro Fertilization. Mo Med. 2017 May-Jun;114(3):156-159. PMID: 30228571; PMCID: PMC6140213. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6140213/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9644046/
4. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ivf/

Note: The information provided in this blog is intended for general knowledge. It is important to remember that it should not replace professional medical advice. If you have any concerns about IVF, please consult a healthcare provider.