In the year 1978, a test tube baby was born for the first time in the world. With the passing of years, this process is referred to as IVF – In-vitro fertilization because of the medical treatments. IVF treatment is hope for couples facing problems in conception.
IVF makes it possible to join egg and sperm in a controlled environment using petri dishes and tubes. If the fallopian tubes are blocked or there are more serious issues of fertility in a couple, then IVF is appropriate.
Since this treatment is conducted with the assistance of tubes and Petri dishes, this treatment is popular with more people under the name test tube baby. Both are similar in procedure but differ in title.
What is an IVF Process or Test Tube Baby?
Pregnancy can be achieved through a test tube baby or IVF process. In this procedure, fertilization happens under a controlled environment with Petri dishes and test tubes instead of naturally forming in a woman’s fallopian tube.
It took 205 attempts before a successful test tube baby was formed. But today, the causes are diagnosed early and make couples to undergo the IVF process. This breakthrough changed the world of reproductive medicine, giving hope to couples struggling with infertility.
Step-by-Step Process of Test Tube Baby Treatment
With advanced and innovative technology, one can get good care and administration for an easy pregnancy. IVF is the process where eggs are taken from the woman’s ovary and then inserted back into the uterus after the process of fertilization. This could be a series of procedures and steps in the process.
Before your IVF treatment, you might have pre-treatment cycle testing that involves blood tests and ultrasound to examine your medical condition and the ability of your womb to carry the newborn.
Ovarian Stimulation
This therapy enhances the number of eggs and also causes ovulation and enhances the possibility of becoming pregnant. This can be achieved by using medications or by undergoing inducing injections for utilizing FSH ( Follicle Stimulating Hormone) and LH ( Luteinizing Hormone).
If you are asked to take medicines then you will have to strictly diet and follow a chart of taking the medicines regularly without missing. For injection, it will be for about 8-14 days, to augment the number of mature eggs. Routine blood tests and ultrasound may be required to track the hormonal fluctuation of your body and the dosage will have to be changed to ensure adequate follicles are stimulated.
Egg & sperm retrieval
When your healthy follicles are 18 – 20 mm in diameter in size then your eggs are ready to be picked up. You will be instructed to take the last dose of your injections and after 36 hours of your last dose, your egg is retrieved.
Your physician will insert a needle that is connected to the probe into your uterus and cervix, a matured follicle is punctured and harvests the fluids are in test tubes and labelled for laboratory use. An embryologist will separate your egg and freeze it for subsequent fertilization procedure.
During that time your partner is also prompted to give his sperm collection by the normal procedure or surgical technique and choose the motile sperm for further procedure.
Fertilisation and Embryo Culture
Fertilization of eggs can be accomplished by injecting sperm into the eggs and leaving them to fertilize throughout the night. The second technique is injecting a single sperm retrieved from the male partner into the egg directly via ICSI techniques.
Embryo Transfer
This has two forms with fresh and frozen embryo transfer being one of them. In fresh embryo transfer your healthcare giver might implant your embryo in your uterus where it develops into your baby. The frozen process can be applied for subsequent pregnancy.
Who Needs an IVF or Test Tube Baby Treatment?
Medicated IVF can be beneficial if you or your partner experience:
- IVF can be beneficial if you have blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
- Endometriosis
- Sperm-related issues, such as low count, poor motility, or absence of sperm
- PCOS or other ovarian disorders
- Uterine complications
- Risk of passing on a genetic condition
- Unexplained infertility
- The need for a gestational carrier or egg donation
Success Rate of IVF in India
In India, assisted reproductive technology is more common because of its superior treatment system and fantastic positive results. Indian IVF success rates are usually 30-35% in general, but at the best possible conditions, it can go up to 40%, particularly in women younger than 35. Success rates are not the same for every clinic, but certain clinics may assert much higher percentages based on their expertise.
Factors Affecting IVF Success Rate in India
The success of the IVF treatment is based on a number of factors as follows:
- Age of IVF patient
- Length of time of infertility an individual has may also affect IVF procedure.
- Primary or secondary infertility
- Infertility causes
- Quality of egg, sperm, and embryo
- Luteal phase after transfer
- The development of endometrium
- Medical history of habitual miscarriages
The actual procedure includes the use of medicine to induce the development of the egg, removal of the egg, in vitro fertilization, and lastly, re-implanting the embryo back into the womb which takes between 6 and 8 weeks.
Most couples question whether IVF is suitable for them. Because it takes a lot of time and IVF success rates in India are normally between 30 to 35%, but in ideal conditions, they can go up to 40%, more so for women under 35. Success rates vary from clinic to clinic, and some of them have far better rates.
Cost of Test Tube Baby Treatment
The cost for IVF or test tube baby procedure is normally between one and four lakhs for each cycle. It varies also with the fertility centre which you are looking towards. When compared to other countries cost of IVF treatment is less in India.
Lifestyle Tips to Improve IVF Success
Several lifestyle choices may help you to undergo your IVF process smoothly as follows:
During IVF, both partners must eat healthily. Fruits, vegetables, whole grain foods, and nutrient-rich recipes should be added to your diet. Avoid processed foods, junk, and fatty foods because they can weaken fertility. A homemade spinach curry is healthier than a calorie-filled burger.
Steer clear of caffeine and alcohol because they alter hormones and reduce the success of IVF. Consuming a lot of coffee might also lower fertility. Drink more fresh juices and less tea and coffee.
Use supplements carefully. Vitamins such as CoQ10 and folic acid are beneficial but always get medical advice.
Avoid Smoking and inhaling toxins from smoke and plastics that are harmful to fertility.
Maintain your physical and mental health to smooth the progress of your fertility treatment. Meditation and good sleep can help you to reduce stress during the IVF process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a baby that comes from an IVF procedure is considered a test tube baby. The fusion of sperm and egg only takes place in a controlled environment along with Petri dishes and test tube. A developed embryo is then transferred into the mother’s womb for further development. If you are confused about test tube baby and IVF, both are the same.
