What is IVF?
If you’re under 35, have regular unprotected intercourse two to three times per week during your fertile window, and have not conceived after one year of trying, IVF may be the next appropriate step.
Each year, IVF helps thousands of couples overcome fertility challenges and fulfill their dream of becoming parents.
When is IVF recommended?
IVF is typically recommended in the following cases:
- Endometriosis
- Male factor infertility (low sperm count and/or motility)
- Blocked fallopian tubes
- Erectile dysfunction
- Unexplained infertility
- When less invasive methods like ovulation induction or intrauterine insemination (IUI) have failed
- History of pelvic inflammatory disease, fibroids, irregular menstrual cycles, STDs, or polycystic ovaries
IVF Process – Step by Step
- Ovarian Stimulation: The woman receives hormonal medication (gonadotropins) to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
- Monitoring: When enough follicles reach a size >17-18mm and the uterine lining is adequate, a trigger shot (β-hCG) is given.
- Egg Retrieval: 36 hours later, eggs are retrieved via ultrasound-guided aspiration. This takes about 15 minutes and is usually done without anesthesia. The male partner provides a sperm sample the same day.
- Fertilization: Retrieved eggs are placed in a culture medium and fertilized either naturally or via ICSI (see below).
- Embryo Transfer: Usually done 3–5 days later using a thin catheter. No anesthesia is needed. Two or three embryos may be transferred depending on the woman’s age. Extra embryos can be frozen for future use.
Other IVF Techniques
- Natural Cycle IVF: No medication is used. The doctor monitors the natural development of a single egg, which is collected and fertilized.
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): Recommended for severe male infertility. A single sperm is directly injected into the egg.
- In cases of azoospermia, sperm can be retrieved from the epididymis (PESA), testis (TESA), or testicular tissue (TESE).
IVF – Frequently Asked Questions
When should a couple consider IVF?
Common indications for IVF include:
- Blocked fallopian tubes
- Advanced endometriosis
- Irregular cycles or anovulation unresponsive to other treatments
- Severe male factor infertility
- Unexplained infertility
- Advanced maternal age (37+)
- Low ovarian reserve (detected via AMH testing)
- Known genetic/chromosomal disorders in either partner
What is the success rate of IVF?
Recent statistics show pregnancy rates over 40% per IVF cycle for women under 35. After four cycles, the cumulative success rate can reach 65–70%.
Success depends largely on the woman’s age—for example, a 30-year-old woman may have a 60% success rate per cycle, while success drops significantly after 40.
Is IVF hormone therapy linked to breast or ovarian cancer?
Numerous studies show no direct link between IVF medications and cancer. Women undergoing stimulation do not face increased long-term cancer risks.
Are there risks or complications from IVF?
The main serious risk is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which is rare with modern protocols. Other possible effects include:
- Multiple pregnancies (especially twins)
- Mild medication side effects: hot flashes, headaches, insomnia, irritability, abdominal discomfort, or light bleeding
Can I freeze my eggs for future use?
Egg freezing is one of the most significant advancements in reproductive medicine, enabling women to preserve their fertility for the future. Thanks to modern freezing techniques, over 90% of eggs survive the thawing process. When eggs are frozen before the age of 35, pregnancy success rates after thawing can exceed 50%.
Current evidence shows no increased risk of cancer associated with the hormones used in egg freezing. However, women with a family history of breast conditions may benefit from a pre-treatment breast examination, ultrasound, or mammogram as a precautionary measure.
How many IVF cycles can I do?
There’s no fixed limit. If no ovarian cysts are present, hormonal treatment can be restarted even in the next menstrual cycle. If frozen embryos are used, another transfer can happen as early as the following month, without additional hormone therapy.
What’s the likelihood of twins after IVF?
Due to the transfer of multiple embryos, the chance of having twins exceeds 10%. However, single embryo transfer is becoming more common—especially in younger women or those with a high chance of success.
Does IVF always require a C-section?
No. Women who conceive via IVF can have a vaginal birth, depending on the pregnancy’s progression, medical history, age, and whether it’s a singleton or twin pregnancy.
What is the cost of IVF?
IVF costs can vary based on the fertility clinic and the specific techniques employed. Additional expenses typically include medications used to stimulate the ovaries for increased egg production.
In Greece, all IVF centers are licensed by the National Authority for Medically Assisted Reproduction (EAIYA), ensuring compliance with rigorous scientific, legal, and ethical standards. This guarantees patient safety and the reliability of services provided.
Selecting a large, well-equipped IVF center offers couples access to the latest technologies and a highly experienced team of fertility specialists and embryologists, enhancing the chances of a successful outcome.
How important is the doctor’s experience?
A doctor’s expertise plays a vital role in IVF success. Choosing a gynecologist specialized in assisted reproduction with a solid track record increases the chances of success and ensures personalized, safe care.
Equally important is the IVF center itself—look for state-of-the-art labs, skilled personnel, and strict quality and safety protocols.