Preparing for an IVF cycle

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:

• Ovarian stimulation
• Egg retrieval
• Egg fertilization
• Embryo transfer
• Pregnancy test

First step: consult with a doctor specialized in IVF:

• It should be a fertility specialist
• The consultation should be done by both partners

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:

• LH hormone
• FSH hormone
• Progesterone
• Possible side effects

Seventh step: lifestyle adjustment:

• Stop smoking
• Limit alcohol intake
• Maintain normal BMI
• Eat healthy food
• Vitamin supplements

Eighth step: emotional preparation:

• Set realistic expectations
• Join support groups
• Communicate with your partner
• Communicate with a trusted family member/friend

Ninth step: prepare yourself financially:

• Understand the costs of different procedures and medications
• Check possible insurance coverage for some parts of the treatment journey
• Keep a budget for unexpected additional costs

Tenth step: logistical planning:

• Arrange time off work for appointments
• Plan transportation and accommodation if coming from another country

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

Dr Najeeb Layyous  F.R.C.O.G

Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist