Have you been struggling with fertility problems? Do you need some support and medical attention to help you conceive? Overcoming fertility problems is something that many couples face today, and it can be an emotionally difficult time. If you want to discuss treatment options, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Michael Cho, a University of Reproductive Associate, in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ, who specializes in infertility problems.

What is IVF?

IVF stands for In Vitro Fertilization. During an IVF treatment, an egg is collected from the women and is fertilized in a laboratory.

If you choose to get IVF, you’ll have to take hormone medication to help prepare your body for the procedure. The treatment will help to stimulate your ovaries to produce eggs and bring these to maturity for the next part of the treatment. Once your eggs are ready, you’ll undergo minor surgery to collect the eggs. The eggs will then be fertilized using your partners or a donor’s sperm to create an embryo. The next step is to place the embryo into your uterus, where it will grow into a baby.

When is IVF Used?

IVF is used in a wide range of situations where medical conditions or life circumstances make the likelihood of a natural pregnancy difficult. Doctors use IVF to bypass the conception issue. IVF allows doctors to place a fertilized embryo into the woman’s uterus, where she’ll then be able to carry on with the pregnancy. This process has allowed many women to overcome medical complications such as blockages in the fallopian tubes, or ovulation problems such as endometriosis or tubal ligation. IVF is also an excellent treatment to use where the sperm has caused fertility issues. If the male has a low sperm count or unhealthy sperm, IVF can help.

Is IVF Right for Me?

When considering whether or not to have IVF, it’s important to discuss your likelihood of success with your doctor. IVF has allowed many couples with fertility problems as well as older women to fulfill their dream of becoming parents. It’s important to remember that IVF success rates are relatively low compared with other forms of treatment, such as IUI. IVF has about a 40% chance of success for women who are aged 35 and under. The success rate also decreases with age and may be lowered if you have other health complications.

While 40% may seem like a very low success rate, it’s important to remember that this is similar to the chances of a healthy couple, with no fertility problems conceiving naturally.

It is worth noting that some women, despite undergoing IVF treatments, may still struggle to conceive due to health complications like uterine abnormalities or low ovarian reserves. In such cases, adoption or surrogacy can be alternative pathways to parenthood.

Surrogacy has been gaining popularity among couples facing fertility challenges, who are looking to expand their families. While surrogacy success rates can vary based on factors like age, health, and egg/sperm quality, surrogacy can still be considered as one of the most successful options available. To increase the odds of success, couples should select a reputable surrogacy agency with screened surrogate mothers and consult fertility specialists for optimized egg/sperm quality. They can also consider genetic testing and counseling to address concerns in the process, ultimately increasing their chances of a successful surrogacy journey.

IVF for same-sex couples

IVF is the main type of fertility treatment offered to same-sex couples. The benefit of having IVF is that it allows couples to have their own biological children. In the case of same-sex couples, a combination of one partner’s eggs or sperm is used alongside that of a donor. In cases where a male couple wants to conceive a baby using IVF, a surrogate mother will also need to be used. In that case, a contract could be drawn between the couple and the surrogate mother under the guidance of a third-party escrow agent. The contract will entail legal protection guidelines, disbursement of funds, and other interests of both parties, which will be supervised by the agent.

If you’re part of a same-sex couple wishing to use IVF to conceive, your doctor will help you work out precisely what will happen during the process. It would also be wise to get legal assistance to draw the contract between both parties to ensure the surrogate mother gets all necessary medical and financial assistance, as well as there are no complications after the child’s birth.

Taking Care of Yourself After IVF Treatment

The IVF process can be physically and emotionally draining. It’s crucial to take care of yourself after the procedure to help support a healthy pregnancy. Make self-care a priority during this important time.

Rest and Take it Easy.

It’s important to take it easy and get plenty of rest after an IVF procedure. Your body needs time to recover from the hormones and procedure. Take naps, go to bed early, and don’t overexert yourself. Listen to your body’s needs and rest when you feel tired. Don’t push yourself too hard, as adequate rest will aid your recovery.

Eat a Balanced Diet.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet full of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean protein is vital after IVF. Proper nutrition provides your body with energy and supports a healthy pregnancy. Avoid processed foods high in fat, salt and sugar. Focus on getting nutrients from natural sources like fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water each day.

Stay Active with Light Exercise.

Light physical activity can help reduce stress and promote blood flow after IVF. Take short, gentle walks, do prenatal yoga, consider exploring online prenatal workouts or swim for 20-30 minutes daily. Avoid strenuous workouts that raise your heart rate too high. Check with your doctor before starting any exercise routine. Low-impact activities will prepare your body for pregnancy without overexerting yourself.

Reduce Stress.

High levels of stress can negatively impact an IVF pregnancy. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, deep breathing or visualization. Make time for hobbies you enjoy to take your mind off worries. Get a massage or try acupuncture to alleviate anxiety. Talk to friends or a counselor about your feelings. Managing stress is essential to your emotional and physical well-being.