Types of IVF Procedures: Understanding Options and Approaches
What are the Different Types of IVF Treatments in India?
IVF is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. Thanks to new medical advancements in reproductive medicine, there are various types of IVF treatment. Each of them is designed to cater to different patient needs. Here are the main approaches available in India:
- Conventional IVF
Conventional IVF is the most common fertility treatment. First, a woman takes ovarian stimulating hormone injections to help her ovaries produce several eggs. Then, after egg retrieval, sperm is added to the eggs in a lab dish. If an embryo forms, it is then placed into the woman’s uterus (womb). This approach is typically recommended for individuals who have a fallopian tube. It is also for unexplained infertility or male infertility.
- Natural Cycle IVF
Natural Cycle IVF is an IVF process that does not involve stimulation drugs. Instead, doctors retrieve the single egg that a woman naturally produces during her monthly cycle. This option is suitable for women with a low ovarian reserve (i.e., a limited number of remaining eggs). It is also perfect for those who want to avoid fertility drugs. However, because there is only one egg, the chance of success may be lower.
- Mini IVF (Minimal Stimulation IVF)
Mini IVF involves lower doses of fertility drugs over a shorter period. It aims to produce fewer but high-quality eggs. It is a balance between Conventional IVF and Natural Cycle IVF. This approach reduces cost and risk. It offers reasonable success rates.
- IVF with Donor Eggs
IVF with Donor Eggs is for women who are unable to produce healthy eggs. In this process, eggs from another woman (a donor) are retrieved and fertilized with sperm. The resulting embryo is then placed into the recipient woman’s uterus. This option is ideal for women who have a genetic disorder. This way, those conditions Will not be passed down. It is an excellent choice for those who have early menopause or age-related infertility.
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection ICSI is where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg. This method is often used for severe male infertility. For example, cases with very low sperm count or poor sperm quality. ICSI can be combined with both conventional IVF and IVF with donor eggs. This makes it a versatile option in IVF treatments.
- IVF with Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
Here, embryos from a previous IVF cycle are frozen and used at a later time. IVF with Frozen Embryo Transfers allows couples to postpone a pregnancy. It lets them try again after a failed cycle. FET is also easier on the woman’s body. It offers a similar success rate to using fresh embryos.
- Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) IVF
Preimplantation Genetic Testing is a procedure used during IVF to check embryos for genetic disorders. This is done before they are transferred to the uterus. This helps ensure that only healthy embryos are used. PGT is a good option for couples who have a known genetic condition. Additionally, it is also great for those who have had multiple failed IVF cycles. It can be used with many types of IVF treatment that involve freezing embryos.
Comparing Key Characteristics of IVF Treatment Types
The table below highlights how each IVF method differs in features:
| IVF Type | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Conventional IVF | It needs hormonal medication to produce multiple mature eggs, followed by fertilization in vitro. |
| Natural Cycle IVF | No fertility drugs are used. Only the body’s natural egg is collected. |
| Mini IVF (Minimal Stimulation IVF) | It uses fewer medicines to get a small number of good-quality eggs. |
| IVF with Donor Eggs | Here, the eggs come from another woman. |
| ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) | This is a laboratory technique where a single sperm is injected into a single egg using specialised tools. |
| IVF with Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) | Frozen embryos are used in this case. |
| PGT IVF (Preimplantation Genetic Testing) | In this, the embryos are analysed for chromosomal abnormalities before transfer. |
Who Should Consider the Different Types of IVF Treatment?
The best type of IVF for you depends on your personal health and fertility history. It may simply depend on your preference. For example:
- Women with primary infertility may be advised to start with conventional IVF or ICSI. This means those who have never been pregnant despite trying for over a year.
- Women with secondary infertility (difficulty getting pregnant after a previous successful pregnancy) might choose FET. This will enable them to utilise the embryos they already have.
- Couples who know they have a genetic disorder may opt for PGT. This helps screen embryos before implantation.
- If age or ovarian function is a concern, donor eggs could be the best solution.
- Men with fertility issues often benefit most from ICSI.
- For those who prefer fewer medications, natural cycle IVF or mini IVF may be suitable options.
Conclusion
There are many different types of in vitro fertilization treatment. Understanding the differences between various types of IVF helps individuals make informed choices. With all the IVF options now available in India, modern medicine gives hope and clarity. If you are exploring fertility solutions, book a consultation at Archish IVF Hospital. Because this is where expert care meets personalised treatment.