1. Ovarian Stimulation

Daily injections of fertility medications encourage the growth of multiple follicles. Monitoring occurs through regular blood tests and ultrasounds. A final "trigger" shot is given to mature the eggs before retrieval.

2. Egg Retrieval and Sperm Collection

Approximately 36 hours following the trigger, eggs are collected via ultrasound-guided needle aspiration. Sperm is obtained through ejaculation or other methods if necessary.

3. Fertilization and Embryo Culture

Eggs and sperm are combined in a lab dish for fertilization, or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is used to inject a single sperm directly into an egg. The resulting embryos are cultured in the laboratory until ready for transfer.

4. Embryo Transfer

One or more embryos are gently placed into the uterus using a soft catheter. The procedure is similar in discomfort to a Pap smear. Any remaining viable embryos may be cryopreserved for later use.

5. Progesterone Supplementation and Pregnancy Test

Progesterone supplements are provided to aid early pregnancy development. A pregnancy test is performed about 17 days after retrieval, with an ultrasound to confirm if the result is positive.