What is IVF and how is it done?
One kind of assisted reproductive technology (ART) used to treat infertility is called in vitro fertilisation, or IVF.
IVF involves the fertilization of an egg with sperm outside the body, in a laboratory dish, to create an embryo. The embryo is then transferred to the uterus, where it may implant and grow into a pregnancy.
General overview of the IVF process:
Ovarian stimulation:
In an IVF cycle, the ovaries are first stimulated to provide a large number of eggs. This is done using hormone medications, usually taken by injection. The goal is to produce several mature eggs, as not all eggs retrieved will be viable for fertilization.
Egg retrieval:
When the eggs are mature, they are retrieved from the ovaries using a needle guided by ultrasound imaging. This procedure is usually done under sedation or anesthesia and takes about 20-30 minutes.
Fertilization:
The retrieved eggs are placed in a culture dish with sperm for fertilization. This can be done using traditional IVF, where the sperm are added to the eggs in the dish, or using intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), where a single sperm is injected into each egg.
Embryo culture:
After fertilization, the embryos are cultured in the laboratory for several days to allow them to develop. During this time, they are monitored to assess their quality and development potential.
Embryo transfer:
When the embryos have developed to a certain stage, they are transferred to the uterus using a catheter inserted through the cervix. Anaesthesia is not necessary for the often painless embryo transfer process. Pregnancy test: About two weeks after the embryo transfer, a pregnancy test is done to determine if the cycle was successful.
IVF is a difficult procedure that can be emotionally taxing at times. It requires careful monitoring and coordination by a team of experienced healthcare providers, including a fertility specialist, embryologist, and nurse. Age, the underlying reason of infertility, and the course of previous treatments are some of the variables that affect IVF success rates.
Is it painful to do IVF?
In most cases, the process of IVF (in vitro fertilisation) is not painful.
However, there may be some discomfort or mild pain associated with certain parts of the process. Here are some possible sources of discomfort during IVF:
- Ovarian stimulation: The medications used to stimulate the ovaries can cause mild discomfort, bloating, or cramping.
- Egg retrieval: The procedure for retrieving the eggs from the ovaries is typically done under sedation or anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. However, you may experience some mild cramping or discomfort afterward.
- Embryo transfer: The embryo transfer procedure is usually painless and does not require anesthesia. However, you may experience some mild cramping or discomfort afterward.
- Side effects of medications: Some people may experience side effects from the medications used in IVF, including headaches, mood changes, or hot flashes.
It is important to note that pain or discomfort during IVF can vary from person to person and may be influenced by factors such as individual pain tolerance and the specific details of your treatment plan. Your healthcare provider can provide more information on what to expect during your IVF cycle and can work with you to manage any discomfort or pain that may arise.
How much does IVF treatment cost in Turkey?
The cost of IVF treatment in Turkey can vary depending on the clinic, location, and individual treatment plan. However, IVF treatment in Turkey is generally more affordable than in many other countries.
On average, the cost of a single cycle of IVF in Turkey can range from approximately 3000 USD to 5000 USD, which includes consultations, medications, monitoring, and the IVF procedure itself. Package discounts or offers for several IVF rounds may be available from certain facilities.
It's important to note that additional costs may apply depending on individual circumstances, such as the need for additional testing or treatments. It's best to consult with a healthcare provider and a reputable IVF clinic in Turkey to determine the exact cost of IVF treatment for your individual situation.
As Tourkey Health, we are committed to providing all kinds of services and support to our patients regarding fertility treatment.