Frequently Asked Questions - In Vitro

Information

What does In Vitro fertilisation mean?

In vitro fertilisation (Latin: in vitro = in glass), often called "in a test tube", is the fusion of a sperm cell and an egg outside the woman's body. This is where the popular name "Test Tube Baby" comes from.

What is the difference between conventional in vitro fertilisation and ICSI?

In conventional in vitro fertilisation, many sperm cells are placed in the culture medium for each egg (on average 100,000 per egg), with the aim of one of them penetrating the egg and fertilising it, whereas in ICSI the embryologist injects a single sperm cell directly into the cytoplasm of the egg.

Are there differences in the procedures applied to the patient in classic in vitro and ICSI?

The difference between ICSI and classic in vitro is only in the embryological procedures. The monitoring, stimulation, and procedures performed on the patient are the same.

How do we know if we are suitable for in vitro?

The first step in treating infertility is a full range of tests for both partners. Depending on the results and after consultation with the treating team, the most appropriate treatment methods for each specific case are determined.

How many times can the in vitro procedure be repeated in case of failure?

The success rate for in vitro is between 20 and 30%, so repeating the procedure is often necessary. There is no specific answer as to how many times this can be done, but it is considered reasonable up to 3-4 times.

How long should one wait before repeating the procedure?

It is very individual and depends on the stimulation applied and the degree of ovarian response to it. At least 3-4 normal menstrual cycles must pass for the ovaries to recover. It is reasonable not to perform more than two ovarian stimulations per year.

What is the duration of the in vitro procedure?

The initial examinations and diagnosis of infertility most commonly take around two months. The ovarian stimulation itself, depending on whether a short or long protocol is applied, lasts between 2 and 5 weeks, as this is individual for each woman.

The embryo transfer is performed between 3 and 5 days after the follicular puncture.

When is it known whether the result is positive?

Modern tests exist that show the presence of pregnancy as early as 12-13 days after the embryo transfer. We recommend that the first test be performed on the 17th day after the embryo transfer, and the first ultrasound examination to visualise the pregnancy on the 21st day.

How long can my frozen embryos be stored?

According to the existing regulation on assisted reproduction, the maximum period is 5 years.

When is the earliest that a frozen embryo transfer can be performed after in vitro?

The principle is the same as when repeating the in vitro procedure - 3-4 normal menstrual cycles.

If you have not found the answer to your question - seek more information on the Vita In Vitro Centre website.