What is IVF?
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) used for infertility
treatment and gestational surrogacy. During IVF, an egg is combined with sperm outside the body in a
laboratory dish to create an embryo. The embryo is then transferred to the uterus with the hope of achieving a successful pregnancy.
Is IVF Safe?
IVF is generally considered safe, but like any medical procedure, it carries some risks and potential side effects. Common risks include:
-
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): A condition where the ovaries become swollen and painful, usually due to excess hormone stimulation.
-
Multiple Pregnancies:IVF increases the likelihood of twins, triplets, or higher-order multiples, which come with higher risks for both the mother and the babies.
-
Ectopic Pregnancy: The embryo implants outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube.
-
Emotional and Psychological Stress: The process can be emotionally taxing and stressful for couples.
Despite these risks, many couples successfully conceive and have healthy pregnancies through IVF.
Difference Between IVF and Test Tube Baby
The terms IVF and test tube baby are often used interchangeably, but they essentially refer to the same process. Here are the key points:
-
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): Scientific term for the process.
Involves fertilizing an egg with sperm outside the body in a laboratory dish.
-
Test Tube Baby: Layman's term for a baby conceived through IVF.
Reflects the common misconception that the process involves "test tubes," while in reality, it uses petri dishes.
Both terms describe the same procedure of assisted fertilization outside the human body.
IVF Cost in Pune with best IVF Treatment in wakad:
The overall price of IVF treatment includes various components such as initial consultation, diagnostic tests, medications, the IVF procedure itself, and embryo transfer.
Side Effects of IVF
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is a widely used assisted reproductive technology, but it comes with potential side effects and risks. Here are the common side effects associated with IVF:
Physical Side Effects
-
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS):
-
Symptoms: Swollen and painful ovaries, abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
-
Causes: Excessive response to fertility medications.
-
Multiple Pregnancies:
-
Risk: Higher chances of twins, triplets, or more, which can lead to complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight.
-
Ectopic Pregnancy:
-
Symptoms: Sharp abdominal pain, dizziness, and abnormal vaginal bleeding.
-
Causes: Embryo implants outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube.
-
Bleeding and Infection:
-
Risk: Minor bleeding or infection following egg retrieval.
-
Ovarian Torsion:
-
Symptoms: Severe pelvic pain.
-
Causes: Ovaries twist due to their enlarged size.
-
Allergic Reactions:
-
Symptoms:Skin rash, itching, and swelling.
-
Causes: Reaction to fertility drugs or anesthesia.
Emotional and Psychological Side Effects
-
Emotional Stress:
-
Symptoms: Anxiety, depression, and mood swings.
-
Causes: The emotional rollercoaster of the IVF process, including the waiting periods and uncertainty.
-
Psychological Strain:
-
Symptoms: Feelings of guilt, failure, and pressure.
-
Causes: The emotional toll of repeated IVF cycles and the desire to conceive.
Long-Term Side Effects
-
Ovarian Cancer Risk:
-
Debate: There is ongoing research and debate about the potential long-term risk of ovarian cancer associated with fertility treatments, but conclusive evidence is lacking.
-
Health Risks to Offspring:
-
Concerns: Studies are examining the long-term health of children conceived through IVF, but current evidence suggests they are generally as healthy as those conceived naturally.
La Femme Fertility in Wakad offers comprehensive and advanced IVF treatments, ensuring the best care for patients seeking to conceive. Understanding the process, safety, and costs associated with IVF can help couples make informed decisions on their fertility journey.