IVF is a fertility treatment carried out through a series of carefully coordinated stages. A typical IVF cycle includes ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilisation in the embryology laboratory and embryo transfer into the uterus.
How Does IVF Treatment Work?
During a natural menstrual cycle, usually one follicle develops and releases a single egg. Although IVF can be performed using an egg obtained during a natural cycle, ovarian stimulation is commonly used because it allows several eggs to mature at the same time.
Medication known as gonadotrophins is generally administered through daily subcutaneous injections for approximately 12 days. During this period, the ovarian response is monitored through ultrasound examinations and, when necessary, hormonal blood tests. These findings allow the specialist to determine the appropriate timing for egg collection.
Around 36 hours before egg retrieval, human chorionic gonadotrophin, or hCG, is administered to support the final stage of egg maturation.
Egg Retrieval and Fertilisation
Egg retrieval is performed under sedation with the guidance of a vaginal ultrasound probe. A fine needle is directed into the ovaries, allowing fluid to be collected from individual follicles. The laboratory team examines the fluid immediately to identify the eggs obtained.
The procedure usually lasts approximately 20 minutes. Following a recovery period of one to two hours, the woman can normally return home.
In the embryology laboratory, the eggs are placed in a specialised culture medium. Prepared sperm is then introduced to the eggs for fertilisation. When sperm concentration or motility is significantly reduced, ICSI may be recommended. During ICSI, the embryologist selects one sperm and injects it directly into an egg.
After fertilisation, embryos continue developing under carefully controlled laboratory conditions. By day five, some embryos may reach the blastocyst stage. Their development and quality are assessed before the most appropriate embryo is selected for transfer.
Embryo Transfer and the Following Days
Embryo transfer may take place around three days after egg collection or after embryos have developed into blastocysts. The procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance and does not normally require sedation.
Usually, one embryo is transferred unless specific circumstances support the transfer of two. Normal daily activity can generally resume immediately afterwards.
The following 12 to 14 days are known as the luteal phase. During this time, the embryo attempts to implant into the endometrium. Progesterone may be prescribed in the form of pessaries, vaginal gel or subcutaneous injections to support implantation.
Any additional good-quality embryos may be preserved through vitrification, an ultra-rapid freezing technique used for embryo storage.
When Can Egg Donation Be Considered?
Egg donation is another option within fertility treatment and involves using eggs provided by a donor. It may be considered for women with premature ovarian insufficiency, low ovarian reserve, repeatedly unsuccessful IVF cycles, abnormal ovarian function or certain genetic disorders.
In Greece, egg donors are altruistic and anonymous and must be younger than 35. Potential donors undergo detailed medical assessment, including personal and family medical history, infectious disease screening, chromosome testing and screening for specific inherited conditions.
Once a suitable donor has been selected, ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval are performed as part of an IVF cycle. The donated eggs are fertilised using sperm from the recipient’s partner or a donor. Embryos may then be transferred directly or cryopreserved for use during a later recipient cycle.
Personalised Support Throughout Fertility Treatment
Both IVF and egg donation require individual planning, careful monitoring and coordinated laboratory and clinical care. Counselling can also support individuals and couples in understanding the emotional, personal and practical aspects of treatment with donated gametes.
For personalised information about IVF, egg donation and available fertility treatment options, contact Gynaecologist specialising in Reproductive Medicine Dr. George Christopoulos to discuss an approach tailored to your individual reproductive needs.
