Known as in vitro fertilization, IVF is a common process used to help couples who can’t have children naturally. The sperm is fertilized with the egg in laboratory conditions instead of in the woman’s body. The fertilized egg, the embryo, is then transferred into the uterus where it will grow.
There are lots of questions when it comes to IVF and surrogacy, so Joy of Life® Surrogacy has put together this blog to answer the most common questions.
1. How Long Does IVF Take?
From beginning to end, the process of IVF will take around 4-6 weeks. The preparation for IVF takes around 2-4 weeks, followed by fertility shots for 8-10 days. Two days later the egg retrieval procedure takes place.
2. Are There Any Side Effects?
Generally, the process of IVF is well received by the mother-to-be, but as with everything there are potential risks and side effects.
There are some mild effects like headaches and hot flushes are mild side from the medicine. A rare side effect is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome which occurs if a woman is too sensitive to fertility medicine and too many eggs grow in the ovaries. This can be painful and lead to nausea, bloating and feeling faint.
Twins and triplets are one risk of IVF, as it can lead to complications that become dangerous for the babies and the mother. Another serious risk is that the embryo becomes implanted in the fallopian tube instead of the womb which leads to an ectopic pregnancy and unfortunately means the baby cannot be saved.
3. Is The IVF Process Painful?
Generally, women do not suffer from pain during the IVF procedure. In some cases, there may be light bleeding and cramps after the egg has been retrieved, and some women might feel bloated.
4. When Can I Take A Pregnancy Test?
After the IVF procedure it will take a few days for the fertilized egg to implant in the womb before enough time has passed for the pregnancy hormones to be produced. Only then will a pregnancy test be able to identify it, so it’s recommended you wait 2 weeks before taking a test.
5. What Happens to My Other Eggs?
Normally your eggs and embryos will be frozen and stored for 10 years, but this decision is up to you. The IVF clinic will give you a consent form, where you can determine how long you’d like them to be frozen for and under what conditions.
Get In Touch with Joy of Life Surrogacy
To learn more about IVF and whether it’s the right process for you, contact Joy of Life® Surrogacy today and speak to a member of the team to find out more.
