In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Traditional IVF

In vitro fertilization (IVF) involves a sequence of events, including the administration and monitoring of medications which stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs; the egg retrieval, fertilization and laboratory culture of these fertilized eggs (embryos); and the growth and transfer of embryos into the uterus. IVF creates an environment, which allows for maximal interaction between as many eggs and sperm as possible, and fosters the creation of multiple embryos, which can then be introduced directly into the uterus under highly optimized conditions.

Once you decide to get started with IVF ,  you should undergo a consultation with Dr. Couchman or Dr. Meyer, confirm financial arrangements and obtain a password to view an IVF teaching class on-line, or schedule a class with our nurse coordinator.  Details of each phase of the process will be discussed, including administration of medication; ultrasound and blood testing; the actual procedures of egg retrieval and embryo transfer; and post-transfer strategies. An injection lesson will be given at the orientation visit, so whoever will give the injections should attend. Specific, individualized dosing instructions about your medication will be reviewed. If you have questions after attending the class or reading this information, please do not hesitate to call us.  You will have one final visit with your physician prior to starting your cycle to answer any final questions including possible need for intrcytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), questions about consents and discussion of embryo transfer and need for freezing of extra embryos.

You will also need to schedule some screening blood work.  Your husband will also be required to undergo some blood studies. We will review with you, based on your previous evaluations, which of these tests you will be required to complete. You will also be given detailed consent forms (link to IVF consent form) concerning IVF laboratory processes, and you must review and sign them prior to the beginning your medications.