IVF Procedure and Preparation

Are you planning to start a family? Are you experiencing roadblocks in your journey to parenthood?

Facing roadblocks on your parenthood journey can feel overwhelming and emotionally exhausting.

Don’t worry, it is quite common.

Globally, 1 in 6 people are affected by infertility. In India, approximately 27.5 million couples experience infertility.

During this time, an IVF procedure can be the gift you are looking for.

At NU Fertility, NU Hospitals, we understand that this is more than a medical process. It is a journey filled with dreams and emotions. We walk beside you at every stage

From understanding your concerns to offering personalised treatment plans, our expert fertility specialists give you compassionate care

If you are looking to begin your IVF journey and are looking to understand the process of IVF cycle, this blog will help you understand the process better.

What is IVF?

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is the process of fertilizing an egg with a sperm outside the human body. This process takes place in a specialized lab.

Once the egg is fertilized, it becomes an embryo. Our doctor then places this embryo back into the mother’s uterus.

By fertilizing the egg in a lab, IVF successfully bypasses any physical obstructions such as blocked fallopian tubes or severe pelvic adhesions.

It is a revolutionary technology that has helped millions of couples become parents.

When do doctors suggest IVF?

IVF is not usually the first step. Our doctors suggest IVF when other methods, such as lifestyle changes or IUI, are unsuccessful.

Doctors may suggest IVF if in these conditions:

• Blocked Fallopian Tubes

If your fallopian tubes are blocked, the egg and sperm will not be able to meet, leading to the formation of the embryo.

• Endometriosis

Severe endometriosis creates a hostile pelvic environment. This can often affect your egg quality. Hence, IVF removes your eggs from this environment to improve outcomes.

• Male Infertility

If the semen analysis of the male partner shows a count below 5 million/ml or poor motility, IVF can give you a better chance of conceiving.

• Unexplained Infertility

Sometimes, every test can come back normal, but you may still be unable to have a baby. During such times, IVF comes to the rescue.

• Genetic Disorders

If you or your partner carries a serious genetic condition, IVF can help our doctors to test your embryos. This helps to make sure only healthy embryos are used.

How to Prepare for IVF?

Preparation is 50% of the battle. You need to be both physically and emotionally ready before your IVF treatment.

Medical Preparation

• Blood tests and scans

Doctors will conduct infectious disease screenings (HIV, Hepatitis B/C, Syphilis) for both partners to make sure a safe environment for the baby.

• Hormone evaluation

Tests for AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) and FSH will help to measure your “ovarian reserve.” The results will tell the doctor how many eggs you have left and how to stimulate your ovaries.

• Semen analysis

Semen analysis helps to evaluate the male partner’s sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape). If the quality is low, procedures such as ICSI will be planned.

• Uterus and ovary assessment

The doctors will check your uterine cavity for polyps, fibroids, or scarring. This makes sure the uterus is clear and healthy.

Lifestyle Preparation

• Stop smoking and alcohol

Tobacco reduces your egg quality and can age your ovaries by years. Alcohol can disrupt hormone balance and increase the risk of miscarriage. Both partners should quit to protect sperm and egg DNA.

• Maintain a healthy weight

Being overweight or underweight can cause hormonal imbalances. This can make it harder for your embryos to implant.

• Eat balanced meals

Focus on a high-quality diet that includes proteins (fish, beans), leafy greens, whole grains, and healthy fats (olive oil, avocados). These nutrients reduce inflammation in your reproductive tract.

• Reduce stress

High levels of stress hormones can interfere with your body’s receptivity to fertility drugs. Prioritize 7-8 hours of sleep and consider walking or prenatal yoga.

Emotional Preparation

• Talk openly with your partner

Hormonal injections can cause mood swings and fatigue. Discuss how you will handle these days with your partner. Share your fears and hopes with one another openly.

• Ask questions

Do not be scared to ask your doctors to explain every stage of the procedure.

Ivf Procedure Step by Step

The IVF cycle follows a 4-to-6-week timeline:

Step 1: Ovarian Stimulation

• Medicines are given to help your ovaries produce more eggs than in a natural cycle
• Usually, the aim is to grow 8-15 healthy eggs
• Daily injections are given under your skin
• This phase is for about 10-12 days.

Step 2: Follicular Monitoring

• You will visit the clinic 3–5 times during this time
• Ultrasound scans check how your eggs are growing
• Blood tests help to measure hormone levels
• Our doctor will adjust your medicines if needed.

Step 3: Trigger Injection

• This injection is given when your eggs are ready
• It helps your eggs mature fully
• This prepares your body for egg retrieval
• Timing is very important at this stage

Step 4: Egg Retrieval

• Egg retrieval is done 34- 36 hours after your trigger injection
• It is a short procedure done under mild sedation
• Your eggs are collected with the help of an ultrasound
• Most patients go home the same day

Step 5: Fertilization

• Your eggs are checked and prepared by our embryologist
• Then the fertilization takes place in our laboratory
• Natural fertilization or ICSI is used
• Your embryos will be monitored for 3- 5 days as they develop

Step 6: Embryo Transfer

• A healthy embryo is then placed into the uterus
• This is done with the help of a thin, soft tube
• The procedure is painless. It does not need anesthesia.
• This is the final step before waiting for pregnancy results

What happens after IVF Procedure?

After the IVF procedure, a two-week wait period is needed.

• Luteal Support

The retrieval process can disrupt your natural progesterone production. You may receive supplemental progesterone injections, tablets, or vaginal gels to maintain the uterine lining.

• Implantation Phase

The embryo usually implants in 1 to 5 days after the transfer. You will be advised to stay active but avoid high-impact movements.

• Confirmation

A Beta HCG blood test is performed 12- 14 days later. If your level is above 50 mIU/mL, it is usually considered as a positive pregnancy.

Factors Impacting IVF Success

Your IVF success will depend on several factors. It is not just the treatment or the process that will impact its chances of success.

• Age

Your egg quality and quantity decline with age.

• Health & lifestyle

Nutrition, stress, smoking, and alcohol play a role.

• Egg & sperm quality

These factors directly affect your embryo development.

• Embryo quality

Healthy embryos improve your chances of implantation.

• Experience of the fertility team

Skilled specialists and embryologists matter in this process.

• Personalised treatment plan

A personalised treatment plan improves your success rates.

Why Choose NU Fertility for Your IVF Treatment?

Choosing a facility is one of the most important decisions in your fertility journey. Why choose NU Fertility for your IVF Treatment?

Clinical Excellence

We operate under the umbrella of NU Hospitals, a name synonymous with surgical and medical precision for decades.

Advanced Infrastructure

Our advanced IVF labs make sure that your embryos are never exposed to pollutants or fluctuating temperatures.

Holistic Patient Care

We don’t just treat the condition; we understand your journey. Our team walks with you at every step of your treatment.

Cost Transparency

We believe that understanding the cost of IVF in Bangalore can be quite tricky. Therefore, we provide you with a detailed financial roadmap for your treatment.

Your Journey to Parenthood

Going through IVF can be emotionally and physically challenging.  This journey comes with hope, uncertainty, and several important decisions on the way. Therefore, choosing the best hospital matters.

Your IVF journey is one of the most meaningful journeys of your life. Selecting the right IVF hospital in Bangalore means finding a place where you feel heard, understood, and supported.

While you must consider IVF treatment cost in Bangalore, it should never outweigh your dream of holding a healthy baby in your arms.

Navigating an IVF cycle is not something you should do alone. It requires a strong partnership built on trust between you and your clinical team.

At NU Fertility, we are honoured to walk this path with you. Our doctors, embryologists, and team take the time to listen to you and answer your questions. We care for you at every stage.

FAQs

1. Is IVF a painful procedure?

The egg retrieval is done under sedation; you will not experience any pain. However, after the procedure, some patients may feel mild bloating or cramping. However, it is similar to a menstrual period.

1. At what age is IVF most successful?

Women under the age of 35 experience the highest success rates. However, with the use of specialized protocols, women in their 40s can also have great chances of success.

1. What is the success rate of IVF treatment?

The success rate of successful IVF pregnancy at NU Fertility is over 60%.                                        

1. How long does one IVF cycle take?                                   

The active phase of IVF lasts about 4 weeks; the entire process from the initial testing and preparation takes around 2 to 3 months.

1. How to choose the right IVF centre in Bangalore?

To choose the best IVF center in Bangalore, look for a clinic with an in-house embryology lab, proven success rates, and experienced specialists. At NU Hospitals, our doctors combine expertise with compassion, supporting you at every step of your fertility journey.