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Comprehensive Guide to IVF Protocols and Fertility Testing

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ivf protocols and fertility testing

IVF Protocols And Fertility Testing: IVF is an assisted reproductive technology (ART) used to help individuals and couples conceive a child. It involves the fertilization of an egg outside the body and the subsequent transfer of the embryo into the uterus.

ivf protocols and fertility testing
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IVF Protocols And Fertility Testing

  • IVF Protocols

IVF protocols vary based on individual health, age, and fertility issues. They generally include the following phases:

  1. Ovarian Stimulation:
    • Purpose: To stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
    • Medications:
      • Gonadotropins (e.g., FSH, LH)
      • GnRH Agonists/Antagonists (to prevent premature ovulation)
    • Monitoring: Regular ultrasounds and blood tests to monitor ovarian response and hormone levels.
  2. Egg Retrieval (Aspiration):
    • Procedure: A minor surgical procedure done under sedation to retrieve eggs from the ovaries using a transvaginal ultrasound-guided needle.
    • Timing: Performed once eggs are deemed mature.
  3. Fertilization:
    • Method: Eggs are fertilized with sperm in the lab.
    • Techniques:
      • Conventional IVF: Eggs and sperm are combined in a culture dish.
      • ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): A single sperm is injected directly into an egg, used in cases of male infertility.
  1. Embryo Culture:
    • Duration: Embryos are cultured for 3-5 days to reach the blastocyst stage.
    • Monitoring: Embryos are assessed for quality and development.
  2. Embryo Transfer:
    • Procedure: One or more embryos are transferred into the uterus through a catheter.
    • Timing: Typically done 3-5 days after egg retrieval.
  3. Luteal Phase Support:
    • Purpose: To support the uterine lining and increase the chances of implantation.
    • Medications: Progesterone supplements (oral, vaginal, or injectable).
  4. Pregnancy Test:
    • Timing: Approximately 10-14 days after embryo transfer.
    • Method: Blood test to check for pregnancy hormone levels (hCG).
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Unhappy Couple Pondering Artificial Insemination As A Solution For Their Infertility Issues. Sadness And Frustration Related To Fertility Treatments Or Reproductive Health. Cartoon Vector Illustration

IVF Protocols And Fertility Testing

  • Fertility Testing

    Fertility testing is essential to determine the causes of infertility and to guide treatment options.

    1. For Women:
      • Ovulation Testing: Blood tests to measure hormone levels (e.g., FSH, LH, estradiol, progesterone) and track ovulation.
      • Hormone Testing: Evaluates thyroid function, adrenal function, and other hormonal imbalances.
      • Ultrasound: Assesses the ovaries and uterus for conditions like cysts, fibroids, or polyps.
      • Hysterosalpingography (HSG): An X-ray of the uterus and fallopian tubes to check for blockages or structural issues.
      • Sonohysterography: An ultrasound with a saline infusion to evaluate the uterine cavity.
      • Endometrial Biopsy: A small sample of the uterine lining is taken to check for abnormalities.
    2. For Men:
      • Semen Analysis: Evaluates sperm count, motility, morphology, and overall semen quality.
      • Hormone Testing: Measures levels of testosterone, FSH, and LH.
      • Genetic Testing: Identifies genetic conditions that may affect fertility, such as Y chromosome microdeletions.
    1. Common IVF Protocols

    Different protocols are used based on individual needs. Some common protocols include:

    1. Long Agonist Protocol:
      • Description: Uses GnRH agonists to suppress natural hormone production, followed by ovarian stimulation with FSH/LH.
      • Used For: Patients with a normal ovarian reserve and no specific issues.
    2. Antagonist Protocol:
      • Description: Uses GnRH antagonists to prevent premature ovulation, combined with stimulation medications.
      • Used For: Patients with a risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) or who respond poorly to stimulation.
    3. Microdose Flare Protocol:
      • Description: Uses low doses of GnRH agonists to stimulate the ovaries more aggressively.
      • Used For: Patients with low ovarian reserve or poor response to previous stimulation cycles.
    4. Natural Cycle IVF:
      • Description: Uses the natural cycle without stimulation to retrieve the single egg that is naturally produced.
      • Used For: Patients with contraindications for stimulation or those who prefer a less invasive approach.

Conclusion: 

IVF protocols and fertility testing are complex but critical components in the journey toward conception. Each protocol and test is designed to address specific issues and optimize the chances of a successful pregnancy. Working closely with a fertility specialist can help tailor the approach to individual needs and improve outcomes.

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