IVF Abroad

Simply put, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is a procedure which involves fertilizing the egg of a female outside the human body. Instead of sperm fertilizing the egg within the uterus, fertilization takes place in laboratory conditions, and the resultant embryo is then implanted in the woman's uterus.

This process is commonly used in cases where women are unable to conceive naturally, whether that be due to a known condition or simply unexplained infertility. IVF is also commonly used by male homosexual couples, or by single women who are looking to become pregnant. For female homosexual couples, reciprocal IVF is a successful alternative. This procedure involves one women in the couple providing the egg, while the other carries the baby.

The IVF Process Start to Finish

Below, we’ve outlined a detailed breakdown of how the IVF process works.

1. Stimulating the Ovaries

Before starting the IVF process, you will be prescribed a round of fertility medications in order to stimulate egg production. Typically, this takes the form of two injections per day that you can take at home. Your doctor may perform ultrasounds after around eight days to ensure that the eggs are developing. Towards the end of the stimulation period, you’ll get a “trigger injection” to prepare the eggs for ovulation.

2. Egg Retrieval

The second step in the IVF process involves collecting the eggs. For this procedure, you’ll be administered general anaesthesia, while your doctor guides a hollow needle into each ovary to obtain the eggs. Before the retrieval, your doctor will use ultrasound imaging to get an idea of how many eggs can be collected. The average number collected is 8–15. This procedure usually lasts 20–30 minutes and, as an outpatient, you’ll be able to leave the hospital that day.

3. Sperm Production

Once the eggs have been extracted, a sperm sample will be collected and combined with the eggs. If a sperm bank is being used, the previously selected donor sperm will already be ready in the lab.

4. Fertilization and Embryo Development

The next step in the IVF process involves fertilization. During this stage, the eggs and sperm will be placed in a dish (known as a vitro), where they’ll have the chance to fertilize as they would naturally in the body. The resulting embryos are then put into a special incubator for optimal growth and development. It can take anywhere from 3–6 days for the fertilized eggs to develop into embryos.

5. Embryo Transfer

The final stage involves transferring the embryos into the uterus. This procedure is surprisingly simple. The embryos are placed into a small tube, known as a catheter. The catheter is then inserted through the cervix and the embryos are deposited into the uterus. This only takes about five minutes and requires no general anaesthesia.

While this is a quick procedure, it’s recommended that you take it easy, especially during the first two weeks following the embryo transfer. In order to help achieve the maximum chance of success, try to eliminate all stress to create the best possible conditions for the embryos to implant.

If you notice some light bleeding during this time, there’s generally no reason to be worried. This is known as implantation bleeding and is fairly normal, but you should inform your doctor if the bleeding becomes heavy.

6. Pregnancy Test

You can take a pregnancy test 10–14 days after the embryo transfer. It’s recommended to wait for the blood test at the fertility clinic though, as home pregnancy tests might yield false results due to the high level of hormones in your body.

IVF Abroad: How It Works

As previously mentioned, IVF takes place in cycles that last around six weeks. If you choose to have IVF abroad, this doesn’t mean that you have to be away from home for the whole time. Some initial tests and part of the treatment can be done at home. This means that, if you prefer, you’ll only need to be at the fertility clinic abroad for four of the six stages. Together, these will take approximately 7–10 days.

IVF Abroad: Step by Step

Here’s a breakdown of the IVF steps outlining which can be done remotely and which usually need to be done at the clinic.

What Should I Expect From IVF Abroad?

IVF success rates are dependent on various factors, most notably, age. Women under the age of 34 have a 40% chance of achieving pregnancy via IVF, while the figure for those over 43 is around 5%.

If the first cycle was not successful, you might have the option to undergo a second one. Many patients go through multiple cycles before achieving a successful pregnancy. This can feel daunting. However, it’s not uncommon for women undergoing IVF to produce too many eggs for implantation. This then allows you to freeze eggs for future use and avoid the stimulation and retrieval phases in the following cycles.

Generally, you shouldn’t experience any significant pain during IVF, although minor cramping and discomfort can occur during the implantation stage. Side effects are usually mild, but can include constipation, breast tenderness, hot flashes, weight gain, nausea, and headaches. However, recovery from the implantation is virtually instant, and you’ll be able to leave the clinic on the same day.

Women may also experience psychological side effects as a result of in vitro fertilization. The hormones used to stimulate egg production are associated with mood swings and depression, while the anxiety of seeking a successful result can also be psychologically challenging. Remember to make use of your Qunomedical Patient Manager during this time. They will always be available for support and reassurance during your entire IVF treatment journey.

Popular Clinics and Doctors

Interested in finding out about popular options for IVF abroad, as well as the people involved? Have a look at our worldwide list of IVF doctors to find trustworthy and unbiased information on a range of the most popular ones among our past patients. The option to explore specific doctor profiles allows you to choose someone based on criteria that matters to you. Dr. Berk Angun for example has 22 years of experience and is based at the accredited Dunya IVF Clinic in Cyprus. Dr. Angun is an expert in the field of fertility and offers a number of unique IVF treatment packages.

Why Choose Qunomedical?

Qunomedical is built on the passionate belief that everyone should be able to access high-quality, affordable healthcare, regardless of their background. Our service always puts patients first and includes a 100% free, non-binding assessment. Whether you’re looking for some initial consultations regarding IVF abroad, or are ready to go ahead and book a clinic, our team of Patient Managers are there for you every step of the way. All of the Qunomedical approved doctors have been thoroughly vetted, so you can rest assured knowing that you’ll be receiving high-quality care.

Sources:

Choe, J. (2022). "In Vitro Fertilization". Last visited 06.01.2023

Huang, J. (2012). "In vitro fertilisation treatment and factors affecting success" Last visited 06.01.2023