Understanding the IVF Journey: A Step-by-Step Guide
From your first consultation to embryo transfer - a clear, compassionate walkthrough of what to expect at each stage of an IVF cycle.
IVF Process — Step by Step
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is a series of steps that help fertilise an egg with sperm in a laboratory, and then transfer the embryo to the uterus.
Ovarian Stimulation
Hormone injections are given for 8–14 days to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
Egg Retrieval
Mature eggs are collected from the ovaries using a thin needle through the vagina, under ultrasound guidance.
Sperm Collection
A semen sample is collected from the partner (or donor) on the same day.
Fertilisation
Eggs and sperm are combined in the lab using conventional IVF or ICSI, where a single sperm is injected into the egg.
Embryo Culture
Fertilised eggs (embryos) are kept in a special incubator and monitored for healthy development for 3–5 days.
Embryo Transfer
One or more healthy embryos are transferred into the uterus using a thin catheter. It is a painless procedure.
Pregnancy Test & Follow-up
After about 12–14 days, a blood test confirms the pregnancy. If positive, early ultrasounds monitor the baby's growth.