Why In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)?

When we talk about In Vitro Fertilization, we refer to a procedure with more than 40 years of history in medicine. IVF is an assisted reproductive technique where sperm and oocytes (eggs) are fertilized outside the body, in a specialized reproduction laboratory, through an extracorporeal process in a dish that was originally made of glass (hence the term “in vitro”).

IVF was initially the solution for women whose fallopian tubes were blocked, damaged, or absent. Today, it is applied to various causes of infertility, such as endometriosis, male factor infertility, immune-related causes, and unexplained infertility, among others. In the 21st century, IVF has become the most performed reproductive technique worldwide and is behind a significant number of assisted pregnancies. The diagnosis of infertility has become increasingly common in couples, both in Mexico and globally.

Who Can Benefit from IVF?

IVF is an ideal option for couples facing blocked fallopian tubes, male factor infertility, endometriosis, unexplained infertility, or those who have not succeeded with other assisted reproductive methods.

Here are the basic steps of IVF:

1. Couple Evaluation

Every couple undergoing assisted reproduction must complete a series of tests prior to the procedure. These include female hormonal profiles, an assessment of the uterine cavity, pre-surgical evaluations, and an analysis of the semen’s fertilizing capacity.

2. Ovarian Stimulation

This phase uses medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs instead of the single egg usually produced each month. It is widely accepted that the chances of achieving pregnancy increase when more than one oocyte is fertilized and transferred per treatment cycle.

3. Egg Retrieval

This procedure, known as aspiration, is performed in an operating room under general anesthesia (or sometimes local anesthesia with analgesics). A vaginal ultrasound probe is used to visualize the reproductive organs, and once the ovaries are located, the mature follicles are identified. A small needle is guided to aspirate the eggs and follicular fluid, which are immediately sent to the reproduction lab.

4. Fertilization of the Eggs

The retrieved oocytes are examined and classified by maturity in the lab. On the day of the follicular aspiration, the male partner provides a semen sample, which is processed to separate the seminal plasma from the sperm cells.

The motile sperm are then placed next to the oocytes in culture plates and incubated at body temperature. Within 16 to 18 hours, fertilization is confirmed by observing the male and female pronuclei. Within 12 hours post-fertilization, the embryo divides into two cells and continues dividing until, between 72 to 120 hours, the embryos are ready to be transferred to the mother’s uterus.

The success rate of this procedure varies depending on early and accurate diagnosis and the patient’s age, with general success rates of 30-40% per cycle, and up to 50% in cases of egg donation.

In summary, In Vitro Fertilization is a technique designed to assist human conception that has evolved over time. It allows reproductive medicine specialists to increase the chances of pregnancy for couples with a genuine desire to become parents when infertility is a reality.

Fertilite Querétaro Clinic is an institution where our specialists have over 20 years of experience in fertility treatments. We have cutting-edge technology to perform any procedure, and above all, we value the human factor. Our empathy allows us to provide multidisciplinary treatments to help make your dream of becoming parents a reality.

Take the first step toward parenthood

If you’re considering IVF and want expert guidance, our team at Fertilite Querétaro is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.