In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

In vitro literally means “in glass.” The act of conception — the entry of a sperm into an egg — takes place in a dish in the laboratory. Any assisted conception procedure where fertilization takes place outside the body is a form of IVF. IVF was originally intended to overcome infertility caused by blocked or absent fallopian tubes. In recent years, IVF has become increasingly popular for women who have other reproductive problems such as irregular ovulation and a host of other poorly understood causes associated with older age. Before considering IVF, you should have failed attempts to achieve pregnancy for at least a year or two, have ruled out infertility due to the male, and be thoroughly educated about the procedure. Once you have decided on IVF, you should have a complete gynecological checkup with breast examination and PAP smear. You should also make sure that you are immune to rubella (German measles), and it is wise to start taking a dietary supplement of folic acid.