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IVF Overview
We understand—no one wants to do IVF. It’s normal to hope for a simpler solution, and the idea of fertility treatment can feel overwhelming. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, the path to building your family requires taking this step.
Dr Coussons has spent decades offering many solutions to avoid IVF and participating in the IVF journey. By adding IVF services to our practice, Dr Coussons can give wisdom and perspective on what is the best path for your unique situation. Early in the journey, we will test ovarian reserve and either review your prior records and testing if completed in the last year, or add additional testing. answers and plans will not take long. Options for treatment with explanations and expectations of outcomes will be individualized and all available options including surgical, non-IVF and IVF will be presented.
Here’s what we want you to know:
- IVF isn’t a "last resort"—it’s the most effective tool we have, with success rates far higher than other treatments like IUI or medications alone.
- Waiting too long on less effective options can cost valuable time, especially if age or fertility factors are at play. The sooner we use the best approach, the better your chances.
- You’re not giving up—you’re making a brave, proactive choice to maximize your odds of success.
We’ll be with you every step of the way, making the process as smooth and hopeful as possible. Your family is worth it
List of Services
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1. Downregulation (1–2 weeks)List Item 1
You’ll take medication to temporarily "quiet" your natural hormones and prepare your ovaries for stimulation. This also evens out the follicles in the ovary to start each one off and help maximize the number of equal sized follicles.
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2. Ovarian Stimulation (~8–14 days)List Item 2
Fertility medications (injections) encourage your ovaries to grow multiple eggs (instead of the usual one per month).
Regular ultrasounds and blood tests monitor egg development.
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3. Trigger Shot (Final Prep for Egg Retrieval)List Item 3
Once your eggs are ready, you’ll take a one-time injection to mature them for collection. Timing is precise—usually 36 hours before retrieval.
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4. Egg Retrieval (20–30-minute procedure)Write a description for this list item and include information that will interest site visitors. For example, you may want to describe a team member's experience, what makes a product special, or a unique service that you offer.List Item 4
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5. Sperm Collection & Fertilization (Day of Retrieval)
Your partner provides a sperm sample.
In the lab, eggs and sperm are combined (standard IVF) or directly injected (ICSI if sperm quality is low).
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6. Embryo Development (5 days in the Lab)
Fertilized eggs grow into embryos while embryologists monitor their progress.
The embryos may be genetically tested if you choose.
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7. Embryo Transfer (Quick & Painless)
A thin catheter places the best embryo into your uterus with ultrasound guidance—no anesthesia needed.
Any extra healthy embryos can be frozen for future use.
Often the embryo transfer is completed 1-3 months after the retrieval to allow the ovaries to recover and the genetic tests to be completed.
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8. The Two-Week Wait (Testing for Pregnancy)
You’ll take progesterone (shots or suppositories) to support early pregnancy.
After ~10–14 days, a blood test confirms if implantation was successful.
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9. Next Steps
Positive test? Early ultrasounds track progress.
Not this time? Frozen embryos (if available) allow for another transfer without repeating stimulation.
Why IVF Works Better:
- Higher success per attempt (50–65% for women under 35 vs. <20% with IUI).
- Bypasses barriers (blocked tubes, poor sperm, endometriosis).
- Genetic testing reduces miscarriage risk.
It’s a structured process with careful support at every step—designed to give you the best chance at achieving pregnancy.
Success Rates
We will review a success prediction at the initial consult or before committing to IVF. The success rate of IVF depends on several factors, including age and fertility diagnosis. Here’s a general breakdown:
Live Birth Rates per IVF Cycle (Using Own Eggs)
- Under 35: 50–60%
- 35–37: 40–50%
- 38–40: 30–40%
- 41–42: 15–25%
- Over 42: 5–10%
Key Factors That Improve Success:
✔ Genetic testing (PGT-A) on embryos → reduces miscarriage risk.
✔ Single euploid (chromosomally normal) embryo transfer → maintains high success while avoiding multiples.
✔ Expert lab & embryology team → better embryo development.
Realistic Hope:
Many couples succeed in 1–2 cycles, but 3 cycles may be needed for cumulative success rates of over 80% (under 35).
We’ll personalize your plan to maximize your chances
Common IVF Patient FAQs – Quick Answers
1. How does IVF work?
Eggs are retrieved, fertilized in a lab, and the best embryo(s) are transferred into the uterus.
2. What’s the success rate?
It depends on the reasons for IVF, but general success is 50–60% per cycle (under 35), lower with aging of the mom.
Success rates may be higher with the transfer of a single genetically normal embryo.
3. How long does an IVF cycle take?
~6-8 weeks (includes stimulation, retrieval) Transfer may be immediately but most commonly is delayed for 1-2 months.
4. Does IVF hurt?
Injections cause mild discomfort but are subcutaneous and easier than years ago; retrieval is under sedation so there is no pain. Most patients say it’s less painful than expected.
5. What side effects can I expect?
Bloating, mood swings (from hormones); OHSS risk is rare but monitored closely.
6. How many embryos are transferred and what is the risk of twins or triplets?
The per embryo success rate is much higher now, so usually a single embryo is transferred to avoid multiples.
7. Can we choose the baby’s sex?
Only with PGT testing (and preferrably if medically justified).
9. Are IVF babies healthy?
Yes, same risks as natural conception. PGT testing reduces genetic disorder risks.
10. How many IVF cycles will I need?
1–3 cycles average; 3 cycles reach over 80% cumulative success (under 35).
11. Why might IVF fail?
Embryo quality, uterine factors, or undiagnosed issues. We review every failure with you and the team.
12. Can I freeze extra embryos?
Yes! Frozen transfers often work better than fresh (success rates similar).
13. What’s ICSI?
Sperm is injected directly into the egg (used for male infertility).
14. Do I need bed rest after transfer or take time off work?
No—just take it easy for 1–2 days. Normal activity won’t hurt the embryo or affect success.
You will need time off for multiple clinic visits for testing and monitoring
15. When can I take a pregnancy test?
9–14 days after transfer (blood test is most accurate).
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