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Frequently Asked Questions

What is IVF?
IVF stands for In Vitro Fertilization. In Vitro denotes a process performed in a test tube, culture dish, or elsewhere outside a living organism. Likewise, IVF is a method of assisted reproduction outside the body. In other words, it involves the fertilization of a female’s egg and a male’s sperm in the IVF laboratory; and upon successful fertilization, the fertilized egg is then transferred to the female’s uterus in order to have a successful pregnancy and childbirth.
The IVF procedure consists of several steps that take place over a period of weeks:
  • Orientation of clients on the complex steps involved in IVF, as well as its risks and benefits.
  • Reproductive screening for clients or intended egg and sperm providers.
  • Ovarian stimulation produces several ovarian follicles, each of which contains an egg. This is achieved by injecting the female with fertility medicine for a few days.
  • Egg retrieval from the ovaries and obtaining a semen sample.
  • Fertilization of the eggs with sperm and growth of the embryos in the laboratory.
  • Transfer of one or more embryos into the uterus.
Who Should Consider IVF?
IVF is the alternative solution for couples experiencing infertility issues due to any of the following symptoms:
  • Absent or blocked fallopian tubes.
  • Severe male factor infertility (sperm count or sperm motility is low, or sperm needs to be extracted surgically from the testicles).
  • One or both partners are at a critical age for reproduction.
  • All other causes of infertility (e.g., endometriosis, ovulation disorders, and unexplained infertility).
  • An inherited genetic disease that they wish to avoid passing on to their child – In this case, IVF is combined with a preimplantation genetic diagnosis. This means that the embryos (or in some cases, just the eggs before fertilization) are tested for the disease, and only those without the disease are transferred to the uterus. This test is also being offered at IVF Asia Group.
  • Premature ovarian insufficiency, in which case donor eggs would be required.
  • Other treatments or therapies have proven to be ineffective for the couple.
What are the risks of the IVF method?

Similar to other methods and even the natural human reproductive process, the IVF procedure also comes with its share of risks. Fortunately, with the comprehensive screening stages before the procedure and the constant check-ups during the pregnancy period, risks can be detected initially and resolved early. What sets IVF Asia Group apart from other clinics is that we guarantee a safe and successful birth. Check out our Guaranteed Baby Program today.

How long does the IVF process take?
On average, it takes approximately 2-4 weeks to prepare for IVF. Then, the stimulation phase entails about 8-10 days of fertility shots before finally reaching the egg retrieval phase two days after the final shot. In total, the entire IVF process spans a month or two.
 
After the IVF process, the embryo can be transferred in the womb. Finally, the 9 month pregnancy countdown officially begins. 
Why do I need to produce a lot of eggs to undergo IVF?
Simply put, the abundance of eggs ensures a successful pregnancy in the long run. If you rely on the natural reproductive process, you will find that some eggs can be immature or would not fertilized normally. After all, the quality of a woman’s eggs depends on several factors such as the woman’s age, health, and lifestyle. More eggs also mean more pregnancy attempts when needed.
 
Women who do not want to go through this process may opt for an egg donor with consent. IVF Asia Group also has a list of volunteer egg and sperm donors.
Where are eggs/sperms/embryos stored?

The eggs, sperm, and embryos are carefully stored and monitored in the IVF laboratory. They are individually placed in containers with liquid nitrogen, which changes them into an almost-solid state so that they live longer. This is important because it can take a while before a successfully fertilized egg can be transferred to the womb. Also, prolonging the eggs' lifespan and sperm allows more pregnancy attempts in case of failure.