What are the steps of IVF from stimulation to pregnancy testing?
IVF usually involves ovarian stimulation and monitoring, egg retrieval, laboratory fertilisation, embryo development, and transfer or freezing of suitable embryos. Plans and timing vary; not every egg or transfer leads to pregnancy.
Details
Before retrieval and fertilisation
The team reviews infertility causes, tests and medicines and explains injections and appointments. Ovarian response is monitored to adjust treatment safely. Eggs may be mixed with sperm or undergo ICSI when appropriate.
Transfer may occur in a later cycle
An embryo may be transferred or embryos frozen for later transfer according to safety and circumstances. The team determines embryo number to reduce multiple-pregnancy risks and sets the pregnancy-test date; early testing may mislead.
Follow-up and urgent symptoms
Obtain medication instructions and a contact for problems. Increasing severe bloating, severe pain, vomiting, reduced urine or breathlessness after stimulation needs prompt assessment for possible ovarian hyperstimulation. Discuss emotional support, costs and possible cycle cancellation.
Related reading: What is ICSI, and when is it used instead of conventional IVF?.