In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a reliable and effective fertility treatment that assists individuals facing various challenges that may hinder natural conception, whether due to personal fertility issues or the inability to conceive naturally. By merging eggs and sperm in a controlled laboratory setting, we create the ideal conditions for fertilisation. This approach is beneficial for patients utilising donated eggs or sperm, and those with identifiable fertility challenges. With numerous factors influencing IVF, our experienced consultants and embryologists customise each detail to maximise your chances of success.
 

The Process of IVF Treatment
Consultation

Every treatment journey begins with an initial consultation. This is comprised of an hour-long video appointment, wherein you and your consultant will discuss your medical history and goals. The consultant will also tell you more about the treatment types on offer and answer your questions.

Blood tests and investigations
Some blood tests and investigations will be required to ensure IVF is a suitable treatment for you. These typically include an Ovarian Reserve Test and a 3D saline infusion sonohysterography to understand the quantity of the antral follicles (small fluid-filled sacs within the ovaries) and assess the health of the womb. Similarly, a semen analysis will be conducted to confirm the quality of the sperm being used. There are lots of additional tests and investigations which our doctors can also recommend, should it be appropriate, for example, for those who have had unsuccessful treatment in the past.

 

Follow-up consultation

Once your test results are back, you will meet with our team to discuss the results. Based on these results, our specialist will also confirm a bespoke treatment plan during this meeting.

Agree on your treatment plan

Before moving forward with any medication or treatment, you will need to agree to the treatment plan and estimated costs, which our Fertility Care Coordinator will provide you with.

Nurse consultation

This meeting with one of our specialised fertility nurses marks the start of treatment itself. Your nurse will explain the different steps of IVF treatment, how and when to take your medication and answer any other questions you might have.

Stimulation

Most patients will undergo a course of medication and monitoring, which will help ensure the best possible results. During this period, you will have regular scans and blood tests to ensure your body is responding correctly, and your medication will be changed accordingly to ensure the best possible results.

Egg collection

Having monitored your blood and scan results closely throughout stimulation, your consultant will decide when the optimal time is to collect your eggs. Egg collection usually happens vaginally, under deep sedation in our theatre. Eggs can also be collected abdominally in certain circumstances. Once collected, healthy eggs are taken to our laboratory to be combined with sperm and fertilised.

Embryo development

Once fertilised, embryos typically develop for five or six days prior to transfer or freezing. During this time, our embryologists closely monitor the way in which the embryo develops, giving an indication of the quality of the embryo. Our embryologists are in constant contact with you during this time to update you on your embryos’ development.

Embryo transfer

Your embryologist will help you to decide which embryo is the best to transfer for the highest possible chance of a healthy and successful pregnancy. Using a small, flexible tube, the chosen embryo will be implanted into the womb to continue its nine months of development as a completely natural pregnancy.

Pregnancy test

14 days after your embryo transfer, you will take an at-home pregnancy test, which will confirm the results of your treatment. Whatever the outcome, our team of consultants, nurses and fertility counsellors will be on hand to support you in your next steps.

 

Arrange an Initial Consultation

As mentioned above, your IVF treatment journey will begin with an initial consultation. This is an hour-long appointment with a consultant of your choice to discuss your goals for treatment. Our consultants are experts at understanding your previous medical and fertility history; having taken a detailed medical history, your consultant will explain what treatment options are available. You will also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about your fertility journey.

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