In vitro fertilization (IVF) involves several steps and requires professional guidance to help patients through each phase. Infertility specialists, or reproductive endocrinologists, play an active role in managing the IVF process. Here is more information on how these specialists support you during each stage from the initial evaluation to the creation of a tailored treatment plan and providing hands-on management of the IVF cycle:
Performing a Diagnostic Workup
The IVF journey starts with a comprehensive evaluation by an infertility specialist. During this phase, the specialist reviews the medical history of both partners. Questions typically cover menstrual cycles, past pregnancies, and any medical issues that may affect fertility. A physical exam is also part of this process.
After the initial meeting, the specialist recommends specific diagnostic tests. These may include blood tests for hormone levels and ovarian reserve for the female partner, as well as imaging studies, such as a transvaginal ultrasound, to inspect the uterus and ovaries. The male partner usually completes a semen analysis to check sperm count, motility, and shape. This detailed assessment gives the specialist essential information to decide if IVF is a suitable path forward and how to customize the next steps.
Creating a Personalized Treatment Plan
After gathering all diagnostic information, the infertility specialist develops a treatment plan that fits the patient’s individual needs. This plan lays out each part of the IVF process, including the medications, dosages, and timeline. The specialist explains the plan to you, outlining what to expect at each step.
One component is ovarian stimulation. The specialist prescribes injectable hormones to encourage the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs in a single cycle, rather than the one egg that usually develops each month. Factors such as age, hormone test results, and prior treatment responses help the specialist select medications and set dosages. This tailored approach aims to maximize the number and quality of eggs available for retrieval.
Monitoring and Managing the IVF Cycle
When the IVF cycle starts, the specialist monitors your response to the medication closely. This process includes regular visits for bloodwork to track hormone levels and ultrasound scans to watch the development of follicles in the ovaries. These check-ins allow the specialist to adjust medication dosages to support optimal growth and development.
Once the follicles reach the desired size, the specialist schedules the egg retrieval procedure. This is a minor surgical process performed with sedation, in which the specialist uses ultrasound guidance to collect the eggs from the ovaries. The collected eggs are combined with sperm in the laboratory. The specialist then observes embryo development and discusses with you when embryo transfer should take place, all based on how the embryos are progressing.
Find an Infertility Specialist
Infertility specialists support patients through each stage of the IVF process. They begin with a full diagnostic evaluation to understand the unique situation of each patient. Using this information, they design a personalized treatment plan with a clear outline of medications and steps. Throughout the IVF cycle, they monitor progress, perform necessary procedures, and adjust the approach based on real-time results. If you’re hoping to expand your family, consult with an infertility specialist to learn more.