For couples who experience difficulty conceiving naturally, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is one option to help them have a child. IVF treatments involve joining the egg and sperm in a laboratory; then, implanting it into the uterus. Before this can happen, several steps must be completed.

3 Steps to Getting Ready for IVF

1. Take Pills

The treatment requires preparing the ovaries for stimulation by taking birth control pills for a determined number of days. The birth control prevents cysts from forming on the ovaries and allows the doctor to control the timing of ovulation.

2. Receive Hormones

Although ovaries release one egg a month, IVF requires multiple eggs to increase the likelihood of successful fertilization. Ovarian stimulation requires injecting hormones directly into the body, and this typically happens for about 8 to 14 days.

During this phase, you’ll visit the doctor every morning for a transvaginal ultrasound to monitor the development of egg follicles. You’ll also provide bloodwork so that the fertility specialists can watch your hormone levels. These tests tell the doctor when your eggs are ready for collection. You’ll receive a trigger shot 36 hours before egg retrieval, which will spur the ovaries to release the eggs for collection.

3. Retrieve the Eggs

After the trigger shot, you’ll be scheduled for egg retrieval. If you plan to use fresh sperm, your male partner will need to collect the sample at home or the treatment center. You’ll be sedated during the egg retrieval, and the eggs will be collected directly from the ovaries using an ultrasound-guided needle.

The doctor will collect eggs from the available follicles, and the process takes about 20 to 30 minutes. After, you’ll go home while the eggs and sperm are sent to the laboratory.

If you’re considering an IVF treatment to grow your family, turn to the compassionate team at IVF HAWAII in Honolulu. These fertility experts have the highest IVF success rate in the state, and they’ll be with you every step of the way, from counseling and diagnosis to embryo implantation. They’ll take the time to understand your concerns and lifestyle; then, create a personalized treatment plan to increase your odds of conception. Learn more about your  first visit online, or call (808) 538-6655 to schedule a consultation.