IVF information

Treatment stages

General information about the steps of IVF treatment.

The physician reviews the medical history of both partners. Blood tests, ultrasound and semen analysis may be requested.

Medication is used to help several follicles develop. Ultrasound and blood tests are used to follow the process.

Eggs are collected from the ovaries with a fine needle under ultrasound guidance, usually with sedation.

In the embryology laboratory, eggs and sperm are brought together. In some cases a single sperm is injected into the egg (ICSI).

Fertilized eggs are kept in the laboratory for several days, and their development is followed by the embryology team.

One or more embryos are placed in the uterus with a thin catheter. Embryos can also be frozen for a later transfer.

A blood test is done about two weeks after the transfer. The physician explains the next steps.

Tests, conditions and laboratory topics