In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a widely-used fertility treatment that has enabled millions of people to achieve their dreams of becoming parents. Whether you’re just starting your fertility journey or exploring options, understanding how IVF works is vital for making informed decisions. Let’s break down the IVF process step-by-step, discuss success rates, and explore the costs involved.

Step-by-Step IVF Process

IVF involves several stages that require close medical supervision, precise timing, and personalised treatment. Here’s what to expect during a typical IVF cycle:

1. Ovarian Stimulation: Naturally, a woman produces one egg per month. During IVF, fertility medications stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs to increase the chances of successful fertilisation.
   • Medications: Hormone injections are prescribed for 10–14 days to promote egg production. Regular blood tests and ultrasounds are used to monitor progress.
2. Egg Retrieval: Once the eggs are mature, they are collected through a minor surgical procedure called follicular aspiration, performed under sedation or anaesthesia to ensure comfort.
3. Fertilisation: The collected eggs are combined with sperm in a laboratory. Fertilisation can occur naturally or through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), where a single sperm is injected directly into the egg.
4. Embryo Culture: The fertilised eggs (now embryos) are monitored for growth over 3-5 days before being ready for transfer to the uterus.
5. Embryo Transfer: A suitable embryo is transferred into the woman’s uterus using a quick and painless procedure, similar to a cervical smear.

Pregnancy Test: After a waiting period of about 10–14 days, a blood test determines whether the procedure resulted in a pregnancy.

IVF Success Rates Based on Age

IVF success rates vary significantly depending on age and other factors. According to the HFEA and SART, here are some general success rates based on age:

• Women under 35: Around 32-50% live birth rate per IVF cycle.

Women aged 35-37: Around 30-40%.

• Women aged 38-40: Around 20-27%.

Women over 40: Success rates fall to 5-12%, but using donor eggs can dramatically increase success​
CDC
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International Fertility Group
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It’s worth noting that other factors such as general fertility health, lifestyle, and the number of embryos transferred can also impact outcomes. However, age remains the most influential factor when using your own eggs for IVF.

What to Expect During an IVF Cycle

The IVF process can be emotionally and physically challenging. Along with the medical procedures, you may experience side effects from fertility medications, such as bloating, mood swings, or discomfort after egg retrieval. It’s essential to have a strong support system in place—whether it’s friends, family, or a fertility counsellor.

An IVF cycle typically lasts between 4 and 6 weeks, though this can vary. Depending on how your body responds, it may take more than one cycle to achieve a pregnancy.

How Much Does IVF Cost?

IVF is a significant financial commitment. In the UK, the average cost for one cycle of IVF can range from £5,000 to £8,000, depending on the clinic and additional services. Fertility medications can add another £1,000 to £2,500. If genetic testing, frozen embryo transfers, or donor eggs are needed, the costs will increase.Many people explore options such as insurance coverage (where available), loans, and employer benefits that cover fertility treatments. Some may also be eligible for NHS-funded IVF cycles depending on their circumstances. To explore options, check our guide on IVF financial planning and funding.

Conclusion

IVF has revolutionised fertility treatments, giving hope to many who are struggling to conceive. While the process can be complex and expensive, it offers a clear path to parenthood. Success rates have improved with advances in reproductive technology, making IVF an increasingly viable option for many.

If you’re considering IVF, it’s crucial to speak to a fertility specialist to understand your options and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. With the right clinic and support system, IVF can be the key to achieving your dream of starting a family.

Ready to start your IVF journey? Explore our list of top-rated fertility clinics or schedule a consultation with a specialist today.

FAQ Section:

• What is the average success rate for IVF?
  The average success rate varies by age, with a 32-50% live birth rate for women under 35 and a 5-12% rate for women over 40. Using donor eggs can increase success rates, especially for older women.
• Is IVF painful?
  IVF involves some mild discomfort, especially during egg retrieval. However, pain management is provided, and most people find it manageable.

How many cycles of IVF are usually needed?
The number of cycles varies; while some may conceive after one cycle, others may need multiple cycles. Discussing your unique situation with a fertility specialist is best.

Backlinks for Further Reading:

• Learn more about IVF Success Rates by Age from the HFEA.
• Explore the IVF Process Explained on the NHS website.

Discover more about IVF Costs and Financial Options in our detailed financial guide.