In 1978, Louise Brown was born, the first baby from a human reproduction technique that, since then, has helped several couples to realize their dream of becoming parents: a fertilization in vitro.
The method is part of Assisted Human Reproduction (RHA) practices and has helped several couples with fertility problems, or even those who wish to have children independently.
Continue reading with TechWorld and learn more about IVF, its indications.
The method became known as “test tube baby”. Source: Shutterstock
What is IVF?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the assisted human reproduction techniques, which helps people with fertility problems to get the much-desired child.
It uses a series of stimulating processes to improve the production of eggs, which will be collected and fertilized in an extracorporeal way.
After fertilization, one waits for the natural time of cell reproduction and observes the formation of embryos, which, when transferred to the mother’s uterus, usually result in pregnancy.
In IVF transfer to the uterus occurs only after the cells form embryos.Source: Shutterstock
After all, who is In Vitro Fertilization indicated for?
The procedure is indicated for couples with fertility problems, which can be caused by several reasons:
Low ovarian reserve: it usually occurs in women over 40, but it can also affect young women;Sperm abnormalities: in this case, the man may have a low sperm production, or produce gametes with anomalies, such as low movement and double tail;Endometriosis: women with endometriosis may have important structures obstructed by the unwanted growth of the endometrium, which makes it difficult for sperm to pass through to fertilize the egg;Loss of ovaries or obstruction of fallopian tubes: this condition can occur due to tumors, endometriosis obstructions or even ectopic pregnancy, which occurs when the fertilized egg does not migrate to the uterus, and the embryo develops in the tube.
These are just some of the indications. If you are trying to get pregnant for more than 12 months, maintaining regular intercourse and not using contraceptive methods, see a doctor.
It will guide you in the best way to research potential fertility problems.
In addition to abnormal sperm production, some men may also have low gamete production.Source: Shutterstock
How is the process of In Vitro Fertilization done?
IVF can be divided into a few steps, which begin with routine tests such as blood tests, imaging tests and sperm testing. These exams are necessary to be sure of the couple’s health before starting hormone treatment, ensuring better chances of pregnancy.
After the initial exams, the woman initiates a hormonal stimulation, which acting on the ovaries, will encourage the maturation of more eggs. Stimulation lasts around 10 to 15 days. After this period, the matured eggs will be collected, in a procedure that takes place under sedation, in a specialized clinic.
The hormone is applied directly to the belly.Source: Shutterstock
The sperm collection takes place on the same day as the collection of the follicles. After the procedures, the material is taken to the laboratory, where it will be united.
The fertilization process can occur in two ways:
Conventional: the material is deposited in a plate prepared for the reception of gametes, and the egg is fertilized by the sperm, without external help;Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection: in this case, the sperm is inserted into the egg through a needle. This method is preferably used when there are problems in the movement of male gametes.
Procedimento de ICSIFonte: Shutterstock
This is where IVF differs from artificial insemination. In insemination, after hormonal stimulation, the woman receives the male genetic material directly in the uterus, but in IVF, the entire fertilization process occurs extracorporeal.
After fertilization, the couple decides the number of embryos to be transferred to the uterus.
How much does the In Vitro Fertilization procedure cost?
There is a resolution in the Federal Council of Medicine that prevents clinics from disclosing the value of the procedure, as each case must be analyzed individually.
Some conditions can lead to more complex treatments, increasing treatment costs. But it is estimated that each IVF attempt costs around 15 thousand to 20 thousand reais.
The SUS performs the procedure, but the process for obtaining the right can be lengthy.
Embryo freezing is a factor that increases the cost of the procedure.Source: Shutterstock
What are the chances of IVF working?
Chances vary according to age, health conditions, and quality of embryos. But it can reach 60% under ideal conditions.
In Vitro Fertilization is an attractive alternative not only for couples, but also for people who want to have children independently. It has excellent chances of success, and it could be the path to the much-desired fatherhood.
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