In its simplest form, IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) treatment can be defined as the artificial fertilization of sperm and egg in a laboratory environment and the transfer of the resulting embryo into the uterus. While it was initially applied to patients with tubal blockage, today it is most commonly performed due to male infertility and ovulation problems in women.

The key point here is to know that this problem is treatable.

How is IVF Treatment Performed?

In its simplest definition, IVF is achieving pregnancy by transferring embryos, formed as a result of fertilizing egg and sperm cells taken from the prospective parents in a laboratory environment, into the mother’s womb.
IVF treatment has become a more frequently applied method in recent years. Factors such as marriages at an advanced age, postponement of childbearing, the increasing prevalence of diseases like endometriosis in women, the rise in male infertility, and the increase in infertility problems among couples who already have children play a role in this trend.

Currently, the most significant issue in infertility is advanced maternal age. Therefore, it is crucial to consider treatment methods and attempt to have children as soon as possible when the woman’s age is over 35. It is also very important to increase information and awareness about egg freezing for women who are not married or not considering children immediately. You can review our article for more detailed information.

Which Tests are Performed When Starting IVF Treatment?

The first and most important factor for success in IVF treatment is evaluation by a knowledgeable physician and identifying the cause of the infertility problem. Following the evaluation and examinations, an IVF treatment plan is created, and certain tests are performed for both the male and female to increase the chance of success.

Tests for Men

  • Sperm Analysis: A detailed evaluation of the semen analysis is important in diagnosing male infertility. The sperm count, motility, and morphology (structure) are evaluated in the spermiogram.

Depending on the results, hormone tests, urological examination, genetic tests, sperm function tests, and DNA fragmentation tests can be performed.

Tests for Women

  • Tests to evaluate ovarian capacity and ovulation problems: Anti-müllerian hormone (AMH), prolactin, and TSH are the primary tests requested. Fasting blood sugar and insulin levels are also requested in cases of polycystic ovary syndrome with ovulation irregularity.
  • Hysterosalpingography (Uterine Film): HSG is performed to determine whether the tubes are open and capable of performing their functions, and to detect space-occupying formations and anomalies within the cervical canal and uterus.
  • Genetic tests: These may be performed to understand if there is a genetic condition causing infertility.
  • Pelvic ultrasonography: Ultrasonography is performed to examine the uterus and ovaries. Polyps, myomas, or congenital anomalies in the uterus will be identified. Ovarian capacity and pathologies can also be evaluated with ultrasound. In suspicious cases, 3D ultrasound can provide very useful information.
  • Laparoscopy: Laparoscopy is an endoscopic method where we evaluate the inside of the abdomen with a thin camera through the navel. It is valuable in the diagnosis and treatment of uterine anomalies, ovarian cysts, tubal pathologies, and endometriosis treatment.
  • Hysteroscopy: Hysteroscopy is a method where we evaluate the uterine cavity endoscopically. It does not require anesthesia; however, in some cases, performing hysteroscopy under anesthesia may be necessary for comfort. When space-occupying pathologies such as polyps or myomas are detected in the uterus, or when uterine anomalies such as a septum are identified on the uterine film, it is possible to treat these pathologies with hysteroscopy.

What are the Success Rates in IVF Treatment?

In IVF today, an average pregnancy rate of 55-60% per transfer can be achieved. However, the real success is described as the “live birth rate.” Depending on age, this rate, which is about 45% in women younger than 35, can be 30-35% between ages 35-37, 20-25% between 38-40, 12-15% between 41-42, and 4-5% over the age of 42.

Who is IVF Treatment Applied To?

  • Patients whose tubes are blocked or whose tubes have been removed due to infection or ectopic pregnancy.
  • Patients who have had surgery that can reduce ovarian reserve, such as ovarian cysts, cancer, or endometrioma.
  • Prospective mothers of advanced age with decreased egg count and quality, or those with ovulation problems like polycystic ovary syndrome.
  • Patients experiencing vaginismus in the female or ejaculation problems in the male.
  • Men with congenital absence of sperm ducts or those whose sperm ducts are blocked due to subsequent inflammatory diseases. Sperm can be obtained from these patients via aspiration from the testes with a syringe and used in IVF treatment.
  • Couples who cannot achieve pregnancy with other treatment methods.
  • Couples with genetic problems.

How Many Days Does IVF Treatment Last?

Contrary to popular belief, IVF treatment is not a laborious or long-lasting treatment. However, when a couple deciding on IVF treatment arrives, there is a pre-evaluation process, and the couple is evaluated in detail through certain tests and analyses before starting treatment. Sometimes this evaluation period can be long due to the tests. For example, if the couple has recurrent miscarriages, genetic tests are requested, which take at least three weeks to conclude. Therefore, this pre-treatment evaluation process lasts differently for each couple; the better the evaluation before IVF, the higher the treatment success will be.

How Many Stages are in IVF Treatment?

IVF treatment is divided into 5 stages in total:

  • Stimulation of the ovaries
  • Egg collection (OPU)
  • Creation of embryos through fertilization
  • Embryo development
  • Embryo transfer

Which Medications are Used in IVF Treatment?

The medications used in IVF and infertility treatment are generally hormonal drugs aimed at stimulating the ovaries. These pills or injections are used to ensure controlled egg stimulation. Treatment is maintained with pills containing clomiphene citrate or letrozole, or with injections containing FSH, LH, and HMG. The application methods and doses of these drugs are determined individually. When the eggs reach a certain size, they are matured with injections commonly referred to as “trigger shots.” All injections used in the treatment are applied through the abdomen, allowing patients to manage their own treatment. Additionally, folic acid supplements, progesterone suppositories or injections after transfer, antibiotics, and occasionally blood-thinning injections or pills are used in the treatments.

What Should the Maternal Age Be in IVF Treatment?

In women aged 40 and over whose ovarian capacity is considered good, pregnancy rates of around 25-30% can be achieved by applying preimplantation genetic diagnosis.

How to Eat During IVF Treatment?

  • One of the most important factors increasing success in IVF treatment is being at an ideal weight. Dietitian assistance should be sought to reach the ideal weight before starting treatment.

  • It is necessary to take in fluids during the IVF process. Instead of cola, tea, mineral water, and other drinks, at least 2-3 liters of water should be consumed daily.
  • During IVF treatment, chickpeas, dry beans, and kidney beans should be consumed. Legumes should be used at least 2 days a week in the meal program.
  • Since fish is the richest food in terms of protein, minerals, and omega-3, consuming fish at least 3 times a week affects treatment success.
  • Instead of frying or grilling, methods such as boiling, steaming, or baking should be preferred. Additionally, pasta and vegetables should be consumed without over-boiling.
  • Green leafy vegetables rich in folic acid and nuts such as hazelnuts and almonds can be preferred.
  • Sweeteners used instead of sugar should be completely avoided and discontinued during the IVF process.
  • If smoking, it should be stopped, and smoky environments should be avoided.