Assisted conception and IVF

July 1, 2008
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Conception

Some couples may need to investigate the options provided by some form of assisted conception. Assisted conception means using reproductive technology to increase your chances of getting pregnant during the month that you undergo assisted conception treatments.

Before being referred to an IVF clinic, you and your partner will most likely have had initial tests to determine the possible causes of your fertility problems. These might include:

Progesterone level test to determine whether ovulationis occurring
Sperm count to test the number and quality of sperm
Ultrasound of the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries to check the condition of the uterus and ovaries
Laparoscopy to identify and/or treat Endometriosis
The tests will most likely show whether or not you are completely infertile or whether you have relative infertility. More conclusive testing can be carried out at an IVF clinic.

The financial and emotional cost of assisted conception can be high. Couples need to be aware of all the issues involved and it is essential that these issues are discussed thoroughly. Couples considering assisted conception can receive counseling from hospitals and fertility clinics.

Types of assisted conception include:
In-vitro fertilisation
GIFT
Assisted insemination using your partners sperm or the sperm of a donor
Egg donation
Embryo donation

IVF (in-vitro fertilisation)
This is the most commonly known and used form of assisted conception. The term in-vitro fertilisation means fertilisation in glass (or in the laboratory). The term IVF refers to any form of assisted conception where fertilisation takes place outside the body.

The first IVF child was born in 1978, since then IVF treatment has come a long way. IVF can now be used to treat numerous reproductive problems, including low sperm count, irregular ovulation and unexplained infertility. Continued...