Reviva IVF

From Embryo Transfer to Implantation: What Really Happens in IVF

When couples choose IVF (In-Vitro Fertilization), one of the most eagerly awaited milestones is embryo transfer. But the journey doesn’t end there—the real challenge begins with embryo implantation. This critical process determines whether a pregnancy will take hold.

At Reviva IVF, under the expert guidance of Dr. Sandeep Cheema Sohi, we focus on making sure every stage—right from embryo transfer to implantation—is optimized for success.

What is Embryo Implantation?

Embryo implantation is the process where a fertilized embryo attaches itself to the uterine lining (endometrium) and begins to embed. This marks the start of pregnancy, as the embryo connects with the mother’s blood supply and signals the body by producing hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin)—the hormone detected in pregnancy tests.

Without proper implantation, even the healthiest embryos cannot result in pregnancy.

Timeline: From Transfer to Implantation

Here’s what typically happens after an embryo transfer in an IVF cycle:

DayStageWhat Happens?
Day 0Embryo TransferA carefully selected embryo (day 3 cleavage stage or day 5 blastocyst) is placed in the uterus.
Day 1–2Pre-ImplantationThe embryo continues to grow and may start the process of “hatching” from its shell (zona pellucida).
Day 3–4Early AttachmentThe embryo makes its first contact with the endometrial lining.
Day 5–7Full ImplantationThe embryo embeds deeper into the uterine lining, establishing maternal blood supply and releasing hCG.

This process is delicate and influenced by both embryo quality and uterine receptivity.

Factors That Influence Successful Implantation

Why Implantation Sometimes Fails

Even in the best IVF labs, implantation doesn’t always occur. Common causes include:

  • Thin or scarred uterine lining
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Genetic abnormalities in embryos
  • Uterine abnormalities like fibroids or polyps
  • Unexplained immunological factors

In such cases, Repeated Implantation Failure (RIF) may be diagnosed, requiring specialized investigation and treatment.

Reviva IVF’s Approach to Implantation Success

Dr. Sandeep Cheema Sohi and her team at Reviva IVF employ advanced protocols to maximize implantation chances:

  • Personalized endometrial preparation with hormone monitoring
  • Advanced embryo selection and grading to choose the healthiest embryos
  • Assisted hatching in cases where embryos may struggle to implant
  • Minimally invasive embryo transfer techniques to avoid uterine trauma
  • Close monitoring post-transfer to provide supportive therapy

Her empathetic counseling ensures that patients are fully informed and emotionally supported through this sensitive stage.

Final Thoughts

The journey from embryo transfer to implantation is both a science and a miracle. While IVF technology provides precision, nature still plays its role in deciding the outcome.

At Reviva IVF, our commitment is to combine cutting-edge science with compassionate care, ensuring that patients receive the best possible support for their parenthood dreams.

Oocyte Grading in IVF: Understanding Quality for Better Outcomes

When it comes to IVF (In-Vitro Fertilization), every step of the process is crucial in determining the success rate. Among these, oocyte grading—or the process of assessing the quality of eggs—plays a pivotal role in predicting fertilization, embryo development, and ultimately, pregnancy success.

At Reviva IVF, led by Dr. Sandeep Cheema Sohi, one of the most renowned infertility specialists in the region, oocyte grading is performed with precision, care, and expertise. With years of experience in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and a compassionate approach toward patients, Dr. Sohi ensures that even the most challenging cases are given the best chance of success.

What is Oocyte Grading?

Oocyte grading is the evaluation of eggs (oocytes) retrieved during IVF to determine their maturity and quality. Not all eggs retrieved are equal—some may be immature, some abnormally shaped, while others may have the ideal characteristics for fertilization.

Grading helps embryologists decide:

  • Which oocytes are most likely to fertilize successfully.
  • Which can develop into healthy embryos.
  • Which eggs are suitable for freezing (cryopreservation) for future use.

Types of Oocyte Quality Grading

Oocyte grading in IVF is typically based on maturity and morphology (appearance under a microscope):

  1. Germinal Vesicle (GV) Stage
    • Immature eggs with a visible nucleus.
    • Not suitable for fertilization.
  2. Metaphase I (MI) Stage
    • Eggs that are partly mature.
    • May develop further in culture but generally have lower fertilization potential.
  3. Metaphase II (MII) Stage
    • Fully mature eggs with the highest potential for successful fertilization.
    • These are considered the gold standard in oocyte quality grading.
  4. Abnormal Oocytes
    • Eggs with irregular shape, cytoplasmic granularity, or fragmented structures.
    • Usually less likely to lead to successful embryo development.

Why Oocyte Quality Matters in IVF

High-quality oocytes are directly linked to:

  • Better fertilization rates
  • Improved embryo quality
  • Higher chances of implantation
  • Reduced chances of miscarriage

For couples undergoing IVF, understanding that egg quality matters as much as quantity can set realistic expectations and guide personalized treatment strategies.

Factors Affecting Oocyte Quality

Several factors can influence oocyte grading, including:

  • Age of the woman: Egg quality declines significantly after the age of 35.
  • Hormonal balance: Proper ovarian stimulation is crucial.
  • Lifestyle factors: Smoking, stress, alcohol, and poor diet negatively impact egg quality.
  • Underlying medical conditions: PCOS, endometriosis, and other reproductive disorders may affect oocyte health.

At Reviva IVF, patients are guided on holistic lifestyle and medical interventions to improve egg quality before treatment.

The Reviva IVF Approach

Dr. Sandeep Cheema Sohi combines advanced technology with personalized care. At Reviva IVF:

  • Every oocyte is meticulously graded by expert embryologists.
  • The selection process ensures only the best quality oocytes are used for fertilization.
  • Patients receive transparent updates on their egg quality grading to stay informed at every stage.

With her empathetic nature and ability to simplify complex medical processes, Dr. Sohi ensures that patients feel reassured and supported throughout their fertility journey.

Final Thoughts

Oocyte grading in IVF is one of the most important steps that determines the likelihood of success. By focusing not just on the number of eggs retrieved but also their quality, Reviva IVF maximizes the chances of achieving healthy pregnancies.

With the expertise of Dr. Sandeep Cheema Sohi and her team, patients are assured of world-class treatment, compassionate care, and a commitment to turning hope into reality.