IVF Process: In vitro fertilization (IVF) has helped millions conceive, yet many patients begin treatment unsure of what to expect. This detailed, stage-by-stage guide illuminates the entire process from initial consultation to pregnancy test, with key statistics and professional insights from Travel For Med’s network of fertility specialists.
Pre-IVF Preparation (Weeks 1-4)
1. Fertility Assessment
-
Comprehensive testing (Day 3 FSH/AMH, semen analysis)
-
Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) for uterine evaluation
-
Infectious disease screening (HIV, hepatitis)
2. Ovarian Reserve Testing
| Test | Optimal Range | Poor Prognosis |
|---|---|---|
| AMH | 1.0-4.0 ng/ml | <1.0 ng/ml |
| AFC | 10-20 total | <5 total |
| FSH | <10 mIU/ml | >12 mIU/ml |
3. Treatment Planning
-
Protocol selection (Antagonist vs. Long Lupron)
-
Medication education (Injection training)
-
Financial counseling (Cost ranges $3,500-$5,000 in Turkey)
Ovarian Stimulation Phase (Days 1-10)
Medication Timeline
-
Day 1-3: Baseline ultrasound + bloodwork
-
Day 3-12: Daily hormone injections (FSH/LH)
-
Day 6-14: Monitoring (3-4 ultrasounds)
-
Day 10-14: Trigger shot (hCG or Lupron)
Stimulation Monitoring
✔ Follicle tracking (aiming 10-20 mature eggs)
✔ Estradiol levels (ideal 150-300 pg/ml per follicle)
✔ Adjustment protocol if over/under responding
Egg Retrieval (Day 14-16)
Procedure Details
-
IV sedation (30 minute procedure)
-
Transvaginal aspiration (guided by ultrasound)
-
Average eggs retrieved:
-
<35 years: 10-15
-
35-37 years: 8-12
-
38-40 years: 6-10
-
40 years: 4-8
-
Post-Retrieval Care
-
24-hour rest required
-
Mild cramping/bloating normal
-
OHSS risk monitoring (3-5% incidence)
Laboratory Phase (Days 15-20)
Fertilization Methods
| Method | Process | Usage Cases |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional | Eggs+sperm combined | Normal semen |
| ICSI | Sperm injected directly | Male factor |
| PICSI | Sperm selected via hyaluronan | DNA fragmentation |
Embryo Development Timeline
-
Day 1: Fertilization check (2 pronuclei)
-
Day 3: 6-8 cell stage grading
-
Day 5-6: Blastocyst formation (40-60% reach)
Embryo Transfer (Days 19-23)
Transfer Options
-
Fresh transfer (3-5 days post-retrieval)
-
Frozen transfer (next cycle)
-
Single vs. double embryo (based on age/quality)
The Transfer Process
-
Embryo selection (grading AA-BB)
-
Catheter insertion (ultrasound guided)
-
Embryo deposition in uterine fundus
-
Immediate ambulation allowed
The Two-Week Wait (Days 24-38)
Post-Transfer Care
✔ Progesterone support (shots/suppositories)
✔ Light activity only (no heavy exercise)
✔ Symptom monitoring (avoid over-analyzing)
Pregnancy Testing
-
Day 10-12: Early blood test (β-hCG)
-
Day 28: Confirmatory ultrasound
-
Success rates by age:
-
<35: 55-65%
-
35-37: 45-55%
-
38-40: 35-45%
-
40: 15-25%
-
Why Choose Travel For Med for IVF?
We provide:
✔ Top clinics with 65%+ success rates
✔ All-inclusive packages (meds, procedures, hotels)
✔ Dedicated patient coordinators
✔ 50-70% cost savings vs Western countries
Begin your IVF journey with confidence:
Contact Travel For Med Today
