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In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a form of assisted reproduction used to help couples who want a baby, but the wife is unable to get pregnant. It is helpful in cases of infertility that have not responded to the usual therapies. In this technique, eggs are removed from the woman and fertilized outside of the body. These fertilized eggs are then replaced in the womb where the woman's body carries on the rest of the pregnancy. The success of all of these methods depends on the age of the woman and the cause of the problem.
Special centres offer this complex technology. They are often involved in national studies to assure that women are getting the newest, safest, and most effective therapies available. Testing is done before any assisted reproduction is started. It includes tests for : - hormone levels
- sperm analysis
- infection and
- a review of past therapies
Fertility medications, hormone levels, and ultrasound tests are used to activate and follow your body's progress. The successful pregnancy rate per cycle is about 15 to 20 percent, which is close to a normal rate. Those natural things that may normally cause a pregnancy to be lost can still be troublesome. Multiple babies are common using these techniques. Pregnancies in the wrong places, such as the tube, occur in about 5 percent of in vitro pregnancies. Babies born using these techniques have the same rate of abnormalities as in normal pregnancies. They also have the same rate of development during their lives. These methods take a large commitment of time and money. Make sure you understand your role and are comfortable with the doctor and the centre you have chosen to help you. This can be a difficult decision for you and your partner. Gather all the information you need to make a choice. Understanding and commitment to your fertilization plan are important to its success. Check with your health insurance company about the level of cover it provides for IVF. Article #7136 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
