What is IVF (in vitro fertilization)?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a fertility treatment in which eggs are collected from the ovaries, fertilized with sperm in a laboratory, and one resulting embryo is placed into the uterus a few days later. It is used for many causes of infertility, including blocked tubes, low sperm count, endometriosis and unexplained infertility.
The steps of an IVF cycle
- Stimulation: hormone injections for about 10 to 14 days help several follicles grow.
- Trigger shot: a final injection matures the eggs.
- Egg retrieval: eggs are collected with a fine needle under sedation.
- Fertilization: eggs and sperm are combined in the lab (sometimes by injecting one sperm into each egg, called ICSI).
- Embryo transfer: usually 3 or 5 days later, one embryo is placed in the uterus. Extras may be frozen.
- Pregnancy test: a blood test about 9 to 14 days after transfer.
Success and the emotional side
Success depends most on age, egg quality and the cause of infertility. Many people need more than one cycle. The hormones can bring bloating and mood swings, and the wait after transfer is famously hard. It's kind to plan gentle days and support around it.
Due dates after IVF
Because the transfer date is known exactly, an IVF due date is calculated from the embryo's age rather than a last period. Our IVF due date calculator does it for 3-day and 5-day transfers.
Related terms: ovulation, embryo and infertility.
Frequently asked questions
Does IVF hurt?
Injections sting briefly and egg retrieval is done under sedation. Bloating and cramps afterwards are common for a few days.
How long does one IVF cycle take?
Usually about 4 to 6 weeks from starting medication to the pregnancy test.
Can IVF affect my mood?
Yes, for many people. The hormone medicines can cause mood swings, tearfulness and irritability, and the waiting adds stress. Clinics usually offer counseling, and it is worth using.
Sources
This page is for information only and isn’t medical advice. If something worries you, please talk to a doctor.
Keep reading
IVF due date calculator: due date from your embryo transferIVF due date calculator: enter your embryo transfer date and embryo age (day 3, 5 or 6) for your estimated due date. Private, instant, nothing is stored.Infertility: definition and meaningInfertility means not getting pregnant after 12 months of regular unprotected sex, or 6 months if you're 35 or older. Causes, tests and next steps.What is an embryo?An embryo is the developing pregnancy from about two weeks after fertilization to the end of week 10. What happens at this stage and how it's counted.
Egg retrieval: definition and meaningEgg retrieval is the IVF step where mature eggs are collected from the ovaries with a fine needle. How it works, recovery, and the signs that need a call.Due date calculator: when is my baby due?Free pregnancy due date calculator: enter the first day of your last period and cycle length to see your estimated due date and how many weeks along you are.