Starting IVF can feel overwhelming—especially if you are exploring fertility treatment for the first time. Understanding the IVF treatment process step by step helps reduce anxiety, sets realistic expectations, and allows couples to prepare both medically and emotionally.
This guide explains the complete IVF journey, specifically for patients seeking IVF treatment in Chandigarh, from the first consultation to pregnancy testing.
What Is IVF?
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is an advanced fertility treatment where an egg and sperm are fertilised in a laboratory, and the resulting embryo is transferred into the uterus to achieve pregnancy. IVF is recommended when natural conception or simpler fertility treatments have not been successful.
Step 1: First IVF Consultation and Fertility Evaluation
The IVF journey begins with a detailed consultation at a fertility clinic. During this stage, the fertility specialist evaluates both partners to identify the cause of infertility.
Common tests include:
- Hormonal blood tests (AMH, FSH, LH, TSH)
- Ultrasound to assess ovaries and uterus
- Semen analysis
- Tubal patency tests (if required)
This evaluation helps personalise the IVF treatment plan and improves success rates.
Step 2: Ovarian Stimulation
Once the treatment plan is finalised, the woman begins ovarian stimulation using hormonal injections. These medications help the ovaries produce multiple mature eggs instead of the single egg released in a natural cycle.
Monitoring includes:
- Regular ultrasounds
- Blood hormone tests
This phase typically lasts 8–12 days.
Step 3: Egg Retrieval (Oocyte Pick-Up)
When the eggs reach optimal maturity, a minor surgical procedure called egg retrieval is performed.
- Conducted under mild anaesthesia
- Takes about 15–20 minutes
- Eggs are collected using ultrasound guidance
On the same day, the male partner provides a semen sample.
Step 4: Fertilisation in the IVF Lab
In the embryology lab, fertilisation occurs using:
- Conventional IVF, or
- ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), if male infertility factors are present
The fertilised eggs are closely monitored as they develop into embryos over the next 3–5 days.
Step 5: Embryo Development and Selection
Embryos are graded based on their growth and quality. The healthiest embryo is selected for transfer, improving the chances of implantation and pregnancy.
In some cases, embryos may be frozen for future use.
Step 6: Embryo Transfer
Embryo transfer is a simple, painless procedure performed without anaesthesia.
- The embryo is placed into the uterus using a thin catheter
- Takes only a few minutes
- No hospital stay required
Patients can resume normal activities shortly after, with a few precautions.
Step 7: The Two-Week Wait
After embryo transfer, patients enter the two-week wait, a crucial phase filled with anticipation.
During this time:
- Hormonal support medications continue
- Stress management and emotional care are important
- Pregnancy test is scheduled after 12–14 days
Step 8: Pregnancy Test and Follow-Up
A blood test (beta hCG) confirms pregnancy. If positive, follow-up scans are planned to monitor early pregnancy development.
If the result is negative, the fertility specialist discusses next steps and future options.
Who Should Consider IVF?
IVF may be recommended for:
- Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
- Male infertility
- Endometriosis
- Age-related fertility decline
- Unexplained infertility
- Repeated failure with other treatments
Why Choose IVF Treatment in Chandigarh?
Chandigarh has emerged as a leading destination for fertility care due to:
- Experienced fertility specialists
- Advanced IVF laboratories
- Personalised treatment protocols
- High ethical and safety standards
Clinics such as Reviva IVF focus on evidence-based care, patient counselling, and transparent treatment planning.
Final Thoughts
IVF is not just a medical procedure—it is a journey that requires clarity, trust, and expert guidance. Understanding each step of the IVF process empowers patients to make informed decisions and approach treatment with confidence.
If you are planning IVF treatment in Chandigarh, scheduling a detailed consultation is the first step toward building your family with confidence and care.
