Preparing for an IVF cycle

Being prepared for an IVF cycle is important as patients should be familiar with what to expect throughout the cycle.

First of all, ladies should understand the basics of IVF and the milestones.

In a simple way, IVF involves the fertilization of the egg outside the human body the returning the embryos inside the uterine cavity.

Basic stages of IVF are:

First step: consult with a doctor specialized in IVF:

Second step: doing blood tests:

Complete blood count to treat anemia that might decrease IVF success rate
Blood sugar levels, as diabetes is linked to pregnancy failure, congenital anomalies and recurrent pregnancy loss
Thyroid function tests:

** the fetus depends on maternal thyroid hormones in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy

**thyroid dysfunction is linked to pregnancy failure and recurrent miscarriage

Prolactin level: high levels might affect egg quality and subsequent fertilization
Vitamin deficiency screening: vitamin supplementation improves fertility and egg/sperm quality
Other blood tests are done based on individual cases and patients’ previous medical history or symptoms such as: thrombophilia screen, liver function test, kidney function test…etc.
Viral screening (Hepatitis, HIV, Syphilis)

Third step: ultrasound examination of maternal pelvis:

To check on the uterus looking for any possible anomalies that need possible surgical correction (adhesions or septum)
To examine the ovarian volume and antral follicular count (estimation of ovarian volume and possible needed dose of stimulation medications)

Fourth step: speculum examination to check for any cervical pathology and taking a pap smear

Fifth step: thorough medical and surgical history should be taken, and any chronic diseases should be controlled.

Sixth step: learning about medications used in IVF:

Seventh step: lifestyle adjustment:

Eighth step: emotional preparation:

Ninth step: prepare yourself financially:

Tenth step: logistical planning:

Remember that, each IVF cycle is a step toward your goal.

Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist

Preparing for an IVF cycle