Understanding the IVF Process Step-by-Step – How IVF Works at IVF Angels Goa

Introduction: Starting IVF – The Path Becomes Clearer

Starting IVF can feel overwhelming—but understanding the IVF process step-by-step helps bring clarity and confidence. Whether you’re new to IVF or trying again after IUI or medications, this guide explains exactly how IVF works—from your first consultation through embryo transfer and pregnancy testing.

At IVF Angels Goa, we believe knowledge empowers. Let us walk you through each stage of your IVF journey with expert care, transparency, and compassion.

“When patients walk in unsure, we help them walk out empowered.”

— Dr. Milind Colvalcar, IVF Specialist, IVF Angels Goa

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Step 1: Fertility Consultation & Evaluation

Your journey begins with an in-depth consultation with our fertility experts.

What Happens:

• Complete medical history review of both partners
• Hormone blood tests: AMH, FSH, LH, Prolactin, TSH
• Ultrasound scan to assess ovaries and uterus
• Semen analysis for the male partner
• Personalized treatment recommendation

Bring With You:

• Any prior test reports or scans
• A list of questions or concerns
• Your partner, if possible—it’s a joint journey

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Step 2: Ovarian Stimulation

To increase your chances of success, we stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs.

Treatment Duration:

10–14 days of hormone injections (usually FSH + LH)

Monitoring Schedule:

• 3–4 ultrasound scans
• Estrogen (E2) blood tests
• Dosage adjustments as needed

Medications May Include:

• Gonal-F, Menopur, HMG
• Antagonists to prevent early ovulation
• Trigger shot (hCG or Lupron) before retrieval

FAQs Answered:

• Side effects are usually mild: bloating, mood swings
• You’ll be closely monitored to avoid OHSS

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Step 3: Egg Retrieval Procedure

Timing:

36 hours after the final trigger injection

How It’s Done:

• Performed under short sedation in our clinic
• A needle guided by ultrasound collects eggs from follicles
• Procedure takes 15–20 minutes
• Recovery in 2–4 hours; no hospital stay required

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Step 4: Sperm Collection & Fertilization

On the day of egg retrieval, sperm is collected from your partner or donor.

If Needed:

• TESA or PESA for men with azoospermia
• Donor sperm via regulated semen banks

Fertilization Process:

• Conventional IVF: eggs + sperm in lab dish
• ICSI: a single sperm is injected into the egg under a microscope

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Step 5: Embryo Culture (3–5 Days)

Our embryologists monitor fertilized eggs for 3 to 5 days.

What We Look For:

• Cell division (from 2-cell to 8-cell)
• Blastocyst development
• Quality and grading
• PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Testing) to check for genetic abnormalities Source: ASRM – American Society for Reproductive Medicine

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Step 6: Embryo Transfer

A major milestone in your journey.

When:

Day 3 or Day 5 post-fertilization

Procedure:

• No anesthesia needed
• Painless; similar to a pap smear
• Best-quality embryo(s) placed in uterus using thin catheter

Post-Transfer:

• Light activities advised
• Medications to support the uterus lining

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Step 7: Luteal Phase Support

To improve implantation chances, we prescribe hormonal support.

You May Be Given:

• Progesterone injections or vaginal suppositories
• Estradiol tablets (if needed)
• Lifestyle recommendations (sleep, stress management, etc.)

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Step 8: Pregnancy Test

Timing:

12–14 days after embryo transfer

Test Used:

Beta-hCG blood test (more accurate than urine test)

Result Options:

• Positive: Follow-up scan in 10 days to check for fetal heartbeat
• Negative: Meet your doctor to review next steps. You may try another cycle with frozen embryos.

Visual Summary Table

IVF Phase	Time Taken	Key Details
Consultation	1–2 days	Tests + planning
Ovarian Stimulation	10–14 days	Hormones + scans
Egg Retrieval	1 day	Sedated, short procedure
Fertilization	1–2 days	IVF or ICSI
Embryo Culture	3–5 days	Grading, PGT optional
Embryo Transfer	1 day	Painless, catheter
Pregnancy Test	12–14 days	Blood test (Beta hCG)

Success Rates & Factors

According to data from the CDC and the Indian Society of Assisted Reproduction:

• IVF success per cycle varies by age
• Women under 35: ~45–55%
• Age 35–40: ~30–40%
• Over 40: 15–20%

“Cumulative success after 3 cycles is ~75%”

— Indian Journal of Fertility & Sterility

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Summary & Key Takeaways

• IVF is a structured and highly personalized journey
• Each step builds toward one beautiful outcome—a child of your own
• You are never alone at IVF Angels Goa

Start your IVF journey with a compassionate team who cares.

Book Your Consultation or Chat on WhatsApp

Next Suggested Reads

• IVF Treatment in Goa – Full Overview
• Is IVF Right for You?

Disclaimer
Content published on this website is intended for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment guidance. Patients are advised to consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical recommendations.