IVF is a more involved treatment program than ovulation induction or intrauterine insemination. Essentially, it involves the following steps:

1-Ovarian Stimulation
During a normal cycle a woman will release one egg and during IVF the ovaries are hormonally stimulated to produce anywhere between 5 and 15 eggs.  The medication for ovarian stimulation varies, however generally a combination of the following drugs may be used; oral contraceptive pill, Synarel, Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH).

2-Oocyte Collection
Oocyte collection is performed by guiding a needle into each follicle that develops on the ovaries and aspirating the fluid contents into a test tube. This procedure is performed in theatre under a general anaesthetic.  The scientist will identify the eggs and collect them in the incubator.

3-Fertilisation
Once the oocytes are collected, sperm are added to them some hours later. The sperm sample is prepared upon its delivery to the lab. The following morning the oocytes are check for signs of successful fertilisation.

4-Embryo Transfer
Two or three days after oocyte collection the embryo is transfered into the uterus. This is done by using a fine catheter which is gently passed through the cervix and is generally painless, with no anaesthetic required. Any excess embryos which have reached a stage suitable will be frozen for future use.

5-Luteal Phase Support
A luteal support is necessary to help maintain your uterine lining in a receptive state for embryo implantation and subsequent pregnancy. 

6-Pregnancy
A pregnancy test will be due generally 2 weeks after your embryo transfer.