IVF is the procedure by which eggs are removed from ovaries and blended with sperm in a laboratory culture dish. Fertilization happens in this dish, "in vitro", which signifies "in glass". Typically, an egg and sperm are fertilized inside a woman's body. If the fertilized egg attaches to the lining or coating of the womb and keeps on growing, a baby is born about 9 months later. This procedure is known as natural or unassisted conception.IVF is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART). This implies exceptional medical techniques are utilized to help a woman become pregnant. It is most often tried when other, less expensive fertility techniques have failed.

WHY IVF is used?

• Blocked or damaged fallopian tube

• Male factor infertility including decreased sperm count or sperm motility

• Women with ovulation disorders, premature ovarian failure, uterine fibroids

• Women who have had their fallopian tubes removed

• Individuals with a genetic disorder

• Unexplained infertility

IVF is likely to be recommended for the following fertility problems:

• If you have blocked or damaged fallopian tubes or any other problem where IVF has been identified as the sole treatment to help you get pregnancy.

• If your partner has a minor problem with his sperm. Major problems are better treated using ICSI. If you have tried fertility medicines, such as clomiphene, or another fertility treatment such as IUI, without success.

• If you have been trying to conceive for at least two years and a cause hasn't been found to explain why you have not conceived.

What is involved with in vitro fertilization?

There are five basic steps in the IVF and embryo transfer process:

• Monitor and stimulate the development of healthy egg(s) in the ovaries.

• Collect the eggs.

• Secure the sperm.

• Combine the eggs and sperm together in the laboratory and provide the appropriate environment for fertilization and early embryo growth.

• Transfer embryos into the uterus.