What is in vitro fertilization (IVF)?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a medical procedure that helps women become pregnant by fertilizing eggs outside of the body and then implanting them into the uterus. It's a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) that's often used when other fertility treatments have failed.

If you and your partner have experienced fertility problems, you may choose IVF to increase your chances of a successful pregnancy. At Baylor Scott & White, your dedicated team of fertility specialists will support you on your IVF journey.

women in a coffee shop thinking about in vitro fertilization (IVF)

Why is IVF performed?

People choose IVF for various reasons, such as infertility issues or existing health conditions in one partner. It’s often pursued after other fertility methods have failed or for those of advanced maternal age. IVF is also a viable reproductive option for same-sex couples or people seeking to have a baby without a partner.

IVF may be an option if you or your partner has:

  • Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
  • Endometriosis
  • Low sperm count or other sperm issues
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other ovarian conditions
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Uterine abnormalities
  • A risk of passing on a genetic disease or disorder
  • Unexplained infertility
  • Lack of success with other fertility treatments
  • Plans to use an egg donor or gestational carrier

How to prepare for IVF

Before starting IVF treatment, you'll go through a comprehensive medical exam and fertility tests, and your partner will be assessed as well. Here are the potential steps you can expect during the preparation:

  • IVF consultation: Discuss the IVF process with your healthcare team.
  • Uterine exam: Includes an updated Pap test and mammogram if you're over 40.
  • Semen analysis: Testing of your partner's sperm.
  • Infection screening: Tests for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other conditions.
  • Ovarian reserve and other hormone testing: Along with blood and urine tests.
  • Fertility medication instructions: Guidance on how to administer medications.
  • Genetic carrier screening: To identify any potential genetic issues.
  • Consent forms: Signing necessary documents.
  • Uterine cavity evaluation: Conducted through hysteroscopy or saline-infused sonography (SIS).

Additionally, your healthcare provider will recommend starting folic acid supplements or other vitamins before the IVF cycle and embryo transfer.

You may also want to prepare yourself emotionally. IVF can be a stressful experience with lots of uncertainty. Talk to your infertility specialist and ensure you completely understand the process and decisions you and your partner may need to make at each step. Also, find ways to spend quality time as a couple when you can focus on your relationship and not the IVF process.

The IVF process

IVF is a complex process that involves retrieving eggs from ovaries and manually combining them with sperm in a lab for fertilization. The main steps for in vitro fertilization include:

What can you expect after IVF treatment?

After the embryo transfer, you can resume your usual routine but be cautious as your ovaries may still be enlarged, potentially causing discomfort with vigorous activities or sex. Consult your care team for guidance on when to avoid these activities.

Common side effects include:

  • Clear or bloody fluid discharge post-procedure (from cervix swabbing)
  • Breast tenderness from elevated estrogen
  • Mild bloating and cramping
  • Constipation

Contact your care team if you experience moderate to severe pain or heavy vaginal bleeding, as these may indicate complications like infection, ovarian twisting or ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.

When and how is pregnancy confirmed after IVF?

After embryo transfer, you'll need to wait about two weeks before taking a pregnancy test. Some healthcare providers may suggest a home urine test, while others recommend a more accurate blood test at the clinic.

Known to many as the "two-week wait," it can be 12 to 14 days of mixed emotions due to the uncertainty, and many find it the hardest part of treatment. Speaking with a counselor or connecting with others in similar situations can help.

If your pregnancy test is positive, you'll have periodic blood tests to monitor the early stages of pregnancy. Prenatal care generally starts between six to ten weeks of pregnancy and includes regular blood tests, imaging tests and physical exams to check for any potential complications.

a couple sitting together researching in vitro fertilization (IVF) options

Embryo freezing or cryopreservation

Embryos are cryopreserved for several reasons. The traditional IVF process often produces more embryos than can be transferred in a single cycle. If non-transferred embryos are of good quality, they can be frozen for future use. Additionally, embryos may be frozen after preimplantation genetic screening or to lessen the risk of overresponding to the IVF medications (a condition known as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome). Many IVF programs only perform frozen embryo transfers. This method allows individuals to delay parenthood until a more suitable time.

Cryopreservation minimizes the need for repeated ovarian stimulation, allowing future cycles to consist of simpler and less costly embryo transfers instead of entire IVF procedures.

What are the risks and potential complications of IVF?

IVF carries certain risks related to ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval, including:

  • Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a condition where the ovaries swell and leak fluid, which can be life-threatening in rare cases
  • Blood clots
  • Infection
  • Abdominal bleeding
  • Ovarian or fallopian tube twisting (torsion) that disrupts blood flow
  • Allergic reactions to medications
  • Anesthesia complications

Risk of conceiving via IVF

There may also be increased risks for pregnancy complications in those who conceive via IVF, such as:

  • Multiple pregnancies: Often due to transferring more than one embryo.
  • High blood pressure disorders: Including eclampsia/preeclampsia and gestational diabetes.
  • Ectopic pregnancy: Occurs in about 2% of IVF cases, where the embryo implants outside the uterus.
  • Heterotopic pregnancy: One embryo implants in the uterus, while another implants outside.
  • Placenta previa: When the placenta covers the cervix.
  • Placental abruption: Premature detachment of the placenta from the uterus.

IVF can also raise the risk of complications for the fetus, such as low birth weight and premature birth.

Find a fertility clinic near you

We help you find IVF treatment at a location that fits your needs. We offer several locations for your care, including specialized fertility clinics in North and Central Texas.

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