In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) used to help individuals or couples conceive a child. The process involves fertilizing an egg with sperm outside the body in a laboratory setting. IVF is often used when other fertility treatments have been unsuccessful or when there are specific fertility issues such as severely low sperm counts or blocked fallopian tubes.

The success rate of IVF depends on a number of factors, however female age is the most important predictor of success.

The average success rate of IVF on the first attempt depends heavily on female age and whether preimplantation genetic testing was done on the embryos. The success rate is about 65% live birth after transfer of a single euploid embryo.

The best age for IVF is typically under the age of 35, when egg quality is highest. After age 36, egg quality starts to decline as do success rates. We can still have very high success in women over 40 when we incorporate PGT-A.

While IVF can be an effective treatment for infertility, it carries some risks and potential complications. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a potential risk from the medications and involves enlargement of the ovaries and fluid accumulation in the pelvis and abdomen.  OHSS can be prevented with frequent ultrasound monitoring visits, choice of trigger agents used to mature the eggs prior to retrieval, and use of medication called cabergaline. These risks can vary based on individual health factors and how the body responds to the treatment.in addition, the egg retrieval has the risks of anesthesia, risk of infection, bleeding or damage to organs including the bowel and bladder. These are very rare and occur <1% of the time.

You will likely need to administer 2 injections daily for 10-12 days, with a 3rd injection started on the 6th day.The number of injections required during an IVF cycle can vary based on the individual's specific treatment plan, but it typically involves multiple injections over a period of 10-12 days.

IVF injections can cause various side effects, which may range from mild to more serious. There may be bloated, twinges of pain, or bruising at the injection site. Some experience heightened emotions, insomnia, nausea, and breast tenderness. These symptoms are temporary and most people feel back to normal when they get their menstrual cycle about 2 weeks after the egg retrieval.