What is IVF?
IVF stands for In Vitro Fertilization, a fertility treatment where eggs are retrieved from a woman’s ovaries and combined with sperm outside the body. The resulting embryos are then transferred back into the woman’s uterus to achieve pregnancy.
How Does IVF Work?
IVF involves several steps, including ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, embryo culture, and embryo transfer. This process is carefully monitored by fertility specialists to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Who can Benefit from IVF?
IVF is commonly used to address infertility caused by various factors such as blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, male factor infertility, or unexplained infertility. It can also be an option for women who have delayed childbearing due to career or health reasons.
Success Rates of IVF
According to the CDC, the success rate of IVF varies depending on factors such as age, cause of infertility, and the clinic’s expertise. On average, the live birth rate per IVF cycle is around 20-35%, with higher success rates for younger women.
Cost of IVF
IVF can be expensive, with costs ranging from $12,000 to $15,000 per cycle. Additional expenses may include medications, genetic testing, and embryo freezing. Some insurance plans may cover part of the costs, but many couples need to pay out of pocket.
