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The Ultimate Guide to In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

According to the National Survey of Family Growth conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 in 8 couples struggle with infertility ––an estimated 49 million couples worldwide. 

Building a family is a milestone for many people. Yet up until the 1960s, many individuals and couples across the world struggled to conceive and start a family. 

Now, modern-day fertility treatments have made families a reality for couples struggling with infertility, with thousands of global organizations helping parents conceive. Thanks to much scientific advancement in the 21st century, we now have modern-day In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to support individuals on their path toward parenthood. 

What is in vitro fertilization (IVF)? 

IVF is an advanced form of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) that helps infertile women and couples conceive. Through IVF, eggs are manually fertilized using a sperm sample from a woman’s partner or donor.

There are many ways to tailor the In Vitro Fertilization process to intended parents, from reciprocal IVF for lesbian couples, to mini IVF treatments for people searching for a lower-impact, less expensive approach to fertility. 

IVF has helped many couples with fertility issues successfully conceive, and may be right for you if you have or experience: 

• Damaged, blocked, or removed fallopian tubes
• Ovulation disorders, uterine fibroids, or premature ovarian failure
• Decreased sperm count or decreased sperm motility
• Unexplained infertility

Additionally, those who are in a same-sex relationships or are intended single parents can achieve their dream of building a family through IVF.

When to use IVF as fertility treatment 

Since the introduction of IVF into mainstream medicine in the 1980s, nearly 5 million babies have been born through assisted reproductive technology (ART).

However, it’s also important to understand that IVF does not ensure a successful pregnancy. Some patients require multiple IVF cycles to achieve a successful pregnancy, while others unfortunately never achieve pregnancy at all. 

Good candidates for IVF include: 

• Women with blocked fallopian tubes 
• Women with an infertility disorder ( Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or Endometriosis)
• Women with irregular cycles of ovulation 
• Male factor infertility

IVF might not be as effective for: 

• Women over 37 years of age (it’s urgent you act quickly for IVF or fertility preservation)
• Women with trouble producing healthy eggs 
• Women with no interest in getting an outside donor 

Because IVF is unique to each patient’s situation, there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to fertilization. However, medications, blood tests, vaginal ultrasounds, sperm and egg retrieval, fertilization and embryo transfer are all critical elements of the process. 

IVF process calendar 

The IVF treatment process can be complex and daunting as a patient. It is important that you be as informed as possible throughout the entire process.

The IVF process has many elements: 

1. Consultation and Testing 

When the IVF cycle begins, your clinic will order a number of pre-treatment tests. Some tests are mandated by state and federal law, while testing required by your clinician is customized to you. These tests often include a baseline ultrasound, bloodwork, and a semen analysis for the male partner to assess your fertility challenges and possibilities.  However, other tests may also be required.

2. Ovarian stimulation 

Ovarian stimulation is a critical part of egg production. By using fertility medications, women can prepare for egg retrieval and increase their chances of a successful pregnancy. Oral and injectable fertility medications are often recommended in addition to hormones for optimal results. This may be conducted with a transvaginal ultrasound to determine when the eggs have matured.

3. Egg retrieval 

During the egg retrieval process, patients will receive general anesthesia to sleep during the procedure. Next, the eggs are then retrieved by placing a needle through the vaginal wall and into the ovary––and suctioned from the growing follicles and collected into test tubes. Finally, the test tubes are passed to the waiting embryologist. Here's what the egg retrieval calendar might look like: 

4. Fertilization 

Once the eggs are in the laboratory, they will be visualized under a microscope and prepared for fertilization with either fresh or frozen sperm. A process called ICSI or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection is then performed to inject one healthy sperm into each of the viable eggs.

5. Embryo freezing and genetic testing 

The following morning, the embryologist will be able to determine how many embryos have formed. The embryos will typically spend 5-7 days in the laboratory before they are ready to be frozen, or transferred back to the uterus. Frozen embryos tend to have better success rates. Most patients will choose to test embryos for genetic or chromosome abnormalities prior to embryo transfer through preimplantation genetic screening or preimplantation genetic diagnosis. 

6. Embryo transfer

Preparing for your embryo transfer is one of the most important processes in your IVF journey. Patients at PFCLA may receive an IVF embryo transfer calendar that resembles the following: 

On the day of embryo transfer , the embryos will be graded based on their cell growth and development. This grading system, along with the patient’s age, will help the physician and patient to decide on the appropriate number of embryos to transfer.

An embryo transfer procedure feels similar to a pap smear and is performed while the patient is awake. To start, the cervix is visualized and cleaned. Then, a very thin catheter (tube) loaded with the embryo(s) is placed gently through the cervix and into the uterine cavity. The embryo(s) are placed near the top of the uterus using ultrasound guidance.

7. Pregnancy test (two weeks after the embryo transfer)

Approximately ten days after the transfer, a blood pregnancy test (hCG level) is performed to determine if the patient is pregnant.

IVF vs. IUI

There are multiple available fertility treatments available today, but some are less effective than others. It’s important to talk to your doctor about what will deliver the best chances of pregnancy, so you’re not wasting precious time and money on options that may not be right for you. IUI, or intrauterine insemination, is one of these treatment options that some use because it is minimally invasive, but the success rates are usually far lower than that of IVF.  

After experiencing failed IUIs , many patients turn to IVF as a more reliable fertility treatment. IVF, or in vitro fertilization, oversees most of the stages of conception to increase the chance of a successful pregnancy. Although IUI is a viable and successful fertility treatment option, it is not uncommon for a patient’s first IUI attempt to fail. 

But for most who are experiencing infertility, IUI is an inferior option to IVF because IUI acts only as an assistant to natural conception. For many patients seeking fertility treatment, it can be impossible to achieve pregnancy through IUI, and your doctor may recommend starting with IVF. 

How to prepare for your IVF journey

To prepare for IVF, intended parents will likely need various screenings--semen analysis, uterine exams, ovarian reserve testing, and even a mock embryo transfer. This is critical to your individual IVF success, and everyone’s process will look slightly different. Preparing for IVF requires consideration of your diet, blood testing, exercise, stress, and overall health. 

Before undergoing IVF, your blood work will be used to assess the level of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in your system. This will give the fertility specialist an understanding of the quality and number of eggs you may have. Also, the blood work performed can help note possible incompatibilities between a mother’s blood type and father’s blood type. This blood work is also crucial in determining the presence of potential genetic disorders, viruses, and diseases that could affect the mother or baby’s health if pregnancy is achieved.

Without critical data from ultrasounds and blood work during the IVF process , the chances of a successful pregnancy are much lower, and fertility specialists can’t use the most modern techniques to truly aid patients in their journey to having a child. Additional testing may be part of the IVF process, depending on the challenges you’ve faced in getting pregnant. 

After the embryo transfer, a blood test will be used to measure the pregnancy hormone levels of human chorionic gonadotropin in a woman’s system. The presence of this hormone confirms pregnancy and is typically tested for 11-12 days after an embryo transfer has been performed. 

Fertility medications and IVF

During IVF, it’s common for fertility doctors to prescribe various fertility medications to their female patients as part of the treatment process. 

These fertility drugs are meant to trigger the release of various hormones and to regulate ovulation. By doing this, women are in essence made more fertile during the procedure, which improves the chances of pregnancy. 

There are common fertility drugs that may be prescribed: 

• Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) - Additional FSH may be used in addition to clomiphene to help stimulate the production of eggs.
• Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (hMG) - A combination of FSH and LH, and can also be used to supplement the effects of clomiphene.
• Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) - Used to trigger a woman’s ovaries to release viable eggs.
• Clomid or Serophene (Clomiphene) - A type of estrogen-blocking medication. It triggers the release of GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone), FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), and LH (luteinizing hormone), which signal your ovaries to produce eggs.

The exact medications and types of drugs required for your treatment will be determined during the consultation process. Keep in mind that some of these medications can be taken orally while others will be administered through injections.

Whatever drugs a patient requires, the effectiveness of these medications will require precise timing. Patients should take their fertility drugs as directed by their fertility specialist. 

All fertility visits must also be attended on schedule to ensure optimal results. The improper dosage or administration of a fertility drug can result in a failed IVF cycle or reduced potential for a successful pregnancy.

Side effects of the IVF procedure 

When a woman is undergoing IVF treatment, the required fertility drugs can increase specific hormone levels, such as progesterone, to prepare the body for pregnancy. Just as when progesterone levels rise naturally during pregnancy, a patient’s increased progesterone levels during IVF are likely to cause fatigue.

While changes in hormone levels are the most prominent cause of fatigue during IVF, the condition can be further exacerbated by stress or anxiety. 

By the time a woman undergoes IVF treatment, she has often been dealing with infertility issues for at least a year. The worry and anticipation of repeated failed pregnancy attempts can take both a physical and mental toll, so it is understandable that many patients already feel worn down when their IVF journey begins. 

Make sure to talk through all your concerns with your fertility specialist to get peace of mind during treatments and receive resources for further emotional support if needed. This will ensure you feel prepared and comfortable during your IVF treatments. Some helpful resources could be therapy for trauma-related to previous pregnancies, talking to couples who have successfully undergone IVF or joining a support group for couples going through the same process.

Because IVF requires a variety of medications throughout the treatment process, patients undergoing IVF may experience a mixture of different side effects . However, the chances of starting a family through IVF far outweigh the possible side effects. 

If you do experience one of these side effects, know that they are common and can be minimized to prevent discomfort. These side effects include:

• Mild cramping and bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Constipation
• Leaking a small amount of clear or blood-tinged fluid after the procedure
• Mood swings
• Hot flashes

However, more severe risks and complications associated with IVF can include:

• Ectopic pregnancy
• Ovarian hyper-stimulation syndrome (OHSS)
• Ovarian torsion

These complications can bring side effects that should not be ignored. If you're experiencing the following, reach out to your doctor immediately: 

• Pelvic pain
• Blood in urine
• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• A fever over 100.5° F

Your fertility doctor should address the side effects of IVF, as well as offer tips to deal with these symptoms. When experiencing fatigue, cramping and other side effects, it’s recommended you: 

• Sleep for 8-10 hours every night
• Drink plenty of water
• Maintain a healthy, balanced diet
• Use approved over-the-counter pain relievers
• Rest warm compresses on areas of discomfort
• Meditate and use other deep breathing or relaxation techniques

Although mild cramping and pelvic discomfort are common, more severe pain should not be ignored. If your side effects are 

IVF success rates and outcomes

Success rates matter when it comes to the field of IVF, especially with surrogacy. Using the most experienced clinics with great success rates can provide you a better chance of having a successful pregnancy and birth, resulting in a healthy baby (or babies). You can ask any doctor or clinic for their success rates and protocols.

By having a conversation with your doctor about what you can expect, you’ll know what will and won’t be possible throughout your fertility journey. When it comes down to how many embryos will be implanted and what’s safe for you or your surrogate, trust your doctor’s counsel and let him guide you on the right path.

• Since 1985 the success rate of achieving a live birth from IVF has increased from 5% to 30% (SART). 
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recorded 231,936 fertility treatment cycles in America in 2015. Of that number, 99 percent of fertility treatments involved in vitro fertilization (IVF) . 
• The overall median age for women undergoing ART is 35.
• The CDC reports 186,157 ART cycles in which an embryo was transferred. Of these 186,175 procedures, 60,778 resulted in live births. 
• Through ART , 72,913 infants were delivered in 2015.
• When fresh non-donor eggs or embryos were used in ART procedures, the CDC noted an 81.6 percent success rate, meaning live birth of a child or multiple children; 16.3 percent of ART procedures resulted in pregnancy loss.

Out of nearly 118,000 cycle starts from intended egg retrievals including all embryo transfers record by SART performed in the United States in 2020, under 29%  (SART)  resulted in live births. By contrast, PFCLA has an over 44%   (SART)   live birth rate from cycle start per intended egg retrieval including all embryo transfers.

Bear in mind that comparing clinics to one another is rarely an ‘apples to apples’ comparison, as different clinics and the physicians therein take different profiles of patients based on age, risk factors and services offered (whether an egg donor was used etc…). The best thing you can do to understand your personal IVF profile is consult with a physician. 

Begin your IVF journey with top-rated fertility care

Building a family has never been more accessible and successful than ever. If you’re coping with infertility blues or looking to start your family but don’t know how, you don’t have to wait any longer to take steps toward this dream. 

The fertility specialists at Pacific Fertility Center would be happy to answer any further questions you may have regarding your surrogacy options. Contact us to get started today.

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Note: This is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Information provided is for general educational purposes only and is subject to change without notice. Speak to your doctor directly with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Any information contained herein does not replace any care plan as determined by a physician.

¹Birth rate percentage using aggregate data from ALL age groups on the Live Births Per Intended Egg Retrieval (ALL EMBRYO TRANSFERS) of Patient's Own Eggs chart for 2020. Reference: PFCLA SART | NATIONAL SART

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Navigating the IVF Process: Key Insights to managing the IVF Timeline and work-life balance

by Dr. John Preston Parry | Nov 9, 2023 | Doctor's Blog

Embarking on fertility treatments can be a demanding process that requires significant emotional, financial, and time commitments.

Understanding fertility treatments is the first step in what may be one of the most important journeys you’ll take as a couple. It’s about creating life and expanding your family. We’re here to guide you through the myriad of fertility treatments available today, providing you with a clear, supportive pathway to parenthood and helping you understand the potential demands and how they might intersect with your career.

How long does the IVF process take from start to finish?

Begin by educating yourself about the IVF process. Knowing the step-by-step process, from initial consultations to procedures and follow-ups, can help you anticipate and schedule necessary time off.

The typical IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) treatment timeline is a multi-step process that usually spans several weeks. Each cycle of IVF includes multiple stages, although the exact timeline can vary based on individual circumstances and protocols of the fertility clinic.

An IVF cycle typically includes  the following steps or procedures:

• Medications to grow multiple eggs
• Retrieval of eggs from the ovary or ovaries
• Insemination of eggs with sperm
• Culture of any resulting fertilized eggs (embryos)
• Placement (“transfer”) of one or more embryo(s) into the uterus
• Support of the uterine lining with hormones to permit and sustain pregnancy

The IVF Process and Timeline

Embarking on the journey of in vitro fertilization (IVF) can be filled with hope and anticipation, yet it’s important to acknowledge that every couple’s path to parenthood is unique. The timeline we provide here outlines a typical IVF process, but it’s tailored with flexibility to meet your specific circumstances.

As you step forward, remember that each phase is approached with your individual needs in mind, ensuring that your journey is as smooth and successful as possible. While timelines may shift, our commitment to your family’s dream remains steadfast.

*Please note that all timelines are approximate and can vary based on individual health profiles and responses to treatment.

Navigating Work-Life Balance During Your IVF Journey

Embarking on in vitro fertilization (IVF) can feel like taking on a second full-time job. Balancing your career while undergoing IVF requires careful planning, open communication, and self-compassion. Here are some strategies to help you maintain equilibrium between your professional life and IVF treatment.

Communicate with Your Employer

If you feel comfortable, have a candid conversation with your employer or HR department about your IVF journey. Many are willing to offer flexibility once they understand the significance and requirements of the process. You’re not obligated to disclose all the details, but providing some insight can lead to accommodations like flexible hours or remote work opportunities.

Flexibility in Your Work Schedule

Look into flexible working arrangements. Flextime, compressed workweeks, or the possibility of working from home on certain days can reduce the stress of juggling work and IVF appointments. It’s crucial to arrange this in advance to minimize the impact on your professional responsibilities.

Prioritize and Delegate

Evaluate your work tasks and prioritize them. Consider what can be delegated or what projects can be put on hold. By focusing on critical tasks, you ensure your work quality remains high, which can relieve some of the pressure during your IVF treatment.

Protect Your Personal Time

Resist the urge to overcompensate at work for the time taken off for IVF procedures. Protect your personal time by setting boundaries and avoiding the pitfall of working late hours or during weekends. This time is vital for rest and recuperation.

Plan for the Unexpected

IVF can be unpredictable, with last-minute changes or unexpected outcomes. Have a contingency plan for work projects and deadlines in case you need to adjust your schedule suddenly.

Understanding Your Legal Rights in the IVF Process

Deciding to embark on an IVF journey is a monumental, intimate decision, often reached after considerable reflection and, in many cases, profound emotional challenges. While navigating the intense emotions and the deluge of medical details, you must not overlook another significant element: the complexities of the legal framework surrounding Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and IVF. To learn more, check out our blog on the  7 Fertility Legal Insights To Avoid Common Pitfalls .

Navigating the Emotional Landscape of IVF

The stress of fertility treatments can affect your emotional well-being and your performance at work. Tools for stress management, such as those recommended by ACOG, can be valuable resources to help you maintain your composure and focus.

According to  OBGYN Nazanin E. Silver , “Before starting infertility treatment, I encourage couples to discuss what they will do if initial treatments don’t work. Would you ever consider adoption? Would your partner? You can talk through scenarios together, and it may help to consider couples therapy.”

In a  recent blog , we discuss how the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) highlights that the emotional impact of infertility often mirrors that of other significant medical conditions such as cancer or heart disease. You might oscillate between feelings of denial, anger, guilt, depression, and acceptance, all of which can be overwhelming and stressful.

In a recent interview with a Positive Steps patient, the couple noted, “The most crucial advice we can offer is to remember that you are not alone. The struggle with infertility can often feel isolating, but it’s important to know that you are part of a community that understands your journey and stands with you.”

Embracing Self-Care During Your IVF Journey

Self-Care is Non-Negotiable. Amid the demands of IVF and work, self-care should be a priority. At the heart of your fertility journey is a commitment to nurturing your own well-being to enhance your fertility and increase the prospects of a successful pregnancy. Self-care in this context means taking thoughtful steps toward improving your overall health and creating the best possible environment for conception.

One of the primary self-care measures involves reviewing and potentially altering medication use, with professional guidance, to avoid substances that may hinder fertility or cause developmental issues. A healthcare provider can help determine which medications are safe to continue and which to suspend during preconception and beyond.

Maintaining a healthy body weight is also crucial, as weight can influence hormonal balance and fertility. A balanced diet and regular exercise not only support reproductive health but also improve mental well-being, a key factor in the fertility journey.

Moderation is the operative word when it comes to alcohol consumption. Reducing intake can have a positive impact on fertility, and it’s a change that partners can undertake together as part of their shared journey toward parenthood.

Furthermore, understanding the significance of timing in your sexual routine can be empowering. Aligning sexual activity with the most fertile periods can naturally increase the chances of pregnancy.

Lastly, addressing additional personal health factors, such as stress levels, sleep patterns, and other lifestyle choices, is essential. Each element of your lifestyle has the potential to affect fertility, and making positive changes can contribute to a healthier conception.

By integrating these self-care practices into your routine, you are taking control of what you can on your path to parenthood. It’s a journey that extends beyond the physical aspects of fertility to encompass the nurturing of your body, mind, and relationship.

Building a Support System: The Key to IVF Success

Navigating the complexities of fertility treatments can be emotionally taxing. During this period, a robust support system becomes invaluable. While the workplace may offer one avenue of support, expanding your search for understanding and solidarity beyond professional circles can provide comfort and connection.

At Positive Steps Fertility we are dedicated to helping individuals and couples get the support they need. These groups provide a safe space to share experiences, offer and receive advice, and foster a sense of companionship on the journey to parenthood.

It’s also important to consider the support that can come from close friends, family members, and even online forums. These personal connections can offer different perspectives and kinds of support. While friends and family provide a personal touch, online communities can offer anonymity and a broader range of experiences.

Counseling services, whether individual or as a couple, can also play a critical role in your support network. Professional therapists, particularly those specializing in fertility issues, can guide you through the emotional complexities that arise during this time, helping you to develop coping strategies and maintain mental and emotional wellness.

Remember, seeking and accepting support is not a sign of weakness; it’s a proactive step toward ensuring your emotional resilience as you navigate your fertility journey.

Preparing Financially for Your IVF Treatment

Costs associated with fertility treatments can add another layer of stress when balancing work life. At Positive Steps Fertility, our goal is to provide the highest quality fertility treatment at the most transparent and affordable cost. We understand that each fertility journey is unique, and we’re committed to getting to know you personally and designing a treatment plan that aligns with your family goals and budget. We aim to provide all the information and transparency you need to make informed decisions. So, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us at 855-759-4124 or email us at [email protected] to learn more.

Embracing the IVF Journey with Confidence and Clarity

At Positive Steps Fertility, we understand that your fertility journey is just one part of your larger life tapestry, which includes your professional aspirations. As you move forward with treatments, we’re here to support you in harmonizing your career goals with the path to parenthood.

With Positive Steps Fertility, you can be assured that while you strive for success in your professional life, we are working alongside you, dedicating our expertise to help you achieve your most cherished personal goal—building a family.

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Exploring the IVF Journey: What to Expect and How to Prepare

• First Steps Fertility Clinic
• August 17, 2023

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The journey toward parenthood can be filled with a mix of anticipation, excitement, and anxiety, especially for couples who find themselves considering assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like in vitro fertilization (IVF). At First Steps Fertility Clinic, our team of highly skilled professionals led by Dr. Fay Weisberg is dedicated to providing the guidance, support, and expertise necessary to help couples navigate the intricate world of fertility treatments with confidence and clarity. Our commitment to patient education and personalized care ensures that you have the resources and understanding to make well-informed decisions about your reproductive journey.

In this blog post, we will walk you through the IVF process, discussing each stage and its purpose, while providing valuable insights to help you prepare mentally, physically, and emotionally for the journey ahead. By exploring topics such as initial consultations, ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, embryo transfer, and post-treatment care, we aim to demystify the IVF experience and empower you with the knowledge to feel confident and secure in your choice to pursue this powerful fertility treatment.

As a leading fertility clinic in the greater Toronto area, we understand the impact that infertility can have on a couple’s emotional well-being and relationships, and we are committed to offering compassionate care tailored to your unique needs at every stage of your IVF journey. Let us join you in exploring the intricacies of IVF, providing the guidance, support, and expertise necessary to make your dreams of parenthood a reality.

1. Initial Consultation: Laying the Groundwork for Your IVF Journey

The first step in your IVF journey begins with an in-depth consultation with a fertility expert, like Dr. Fay Weisberg at First Steps Fertility Clinic. This consultation provides an opportunity for you and your partner to discuss your medical history, fertility concerns, and expectations for IVF. You’ll also undergo a thorough evaluation, including diagnostic tests to assess your reproductive health and identify potential factors contributing to your fertility challenges.

To make the most of your consultation, come prepared with any questions, concerns, or documentation related to your fertility journey. This information will help your fertility specialist develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and circumstances.

2. Ovarian Stimulation: Maximizing Your Chances for Success

Following your initial consultation, your fertility specialist may prescribe medications to stimulate the development and growth of multiple eggs in your ovaries. These medications, known as gonadotropins, are typically administered through injections over a period of 8-14 days.

During ovarian stimulation, you’ll be monitored closely through blood tests and ultrasound exams to track the progression of your follicles (the fluid-filled sacs containing the eggs) and ensure the appropriate response to the medications. Based on your monitoring results, the fertility specialist may adjust your medication dosage to optimize egg development.

To prepare for this stage, familiarize yourself with the injection process and techniques, and create a comfortable, stress-free environment for administering the medications. Remember, it’s normal to feel a range of emotions during this period. Consider joining a support group or seeking counselling to help navigate these feelings.

3. Egg Retrieval & Fertilization: Harvesting the Building Blocks of Life

Once your follicles have reached optimal size and maturity, the next step is egg retrieval. This minimally invasive procedure involves the use of a transvaginal ultrasound probe and a thin needle to aspirate the eggs from the ovaries. Egg retrieval is typically performed under sedation, ensuring your comfort throughout the process.

Following retrieval, your eggs are combined with your partner’s sperm or donor sperm in a laboratory setting. The fertilized eggs, now called embryos, are monitored for growth and development over the next few days. A select number of healthy embryos will be chosen for transfer to your uterus.

During this stage, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care, as the procedure can cause mild cramping and discomfort. Make sure to follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding physical activity and pain management.

4. Embryo Transfer & Post-Treatment Care: Nurturing Your Future

Approximately 3-5 days after fertilization, one or more healthy embryos will be transferred to your uterus. The transfer procedure is generally straightforward and requires no anesthesia. A thin catheter is used to place the embryos in your uterine cavity, after which they will hopefully implant and result in a successful pregnancy.

Following the embryo transfer, you may be instructed to take various medications, such as progesterone supplements, to support implantation and early pregnancy. Additionally, you’ll be advised to avoid strenuous activities and monitor for any potential complications. Your fertility specialist will provide detailed guidelines for self-care during this period.

To prepare for the emotional aspect of the post-transfer wait, consider engaging in relaxing activities, such as meditation or gentle exercise, and seek the support of friends, family, or professional counsellors to help manage anxiety and stress.

The IVF process can be a complex and emotionally charged experience. Understanding each stage, knowing what to expect, and preparing appropriately can help alleviate stress and foster a sense of control over your fertility journey.

At First Steps Fertility Clinic, we are dedicated to supporting and empowering couples throughout their IVF clinic experience. We understand the emotional intricacies and personal challenges associated with infertility, and we strive to provide comprehensive and compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. Our unwavering commitment to patient education empowers you to confidently navigate the IVF journey and embrace the possibility of a brighter future as parents.

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What I Wish I'd Known Before Getting IVF

By Zahra Thompson

When you're avoiding getting pregnant, it's easy to feel like one little slip-up will end with a bun in the oven. The possibility can create a lot of vigilance around taking your birth control pills , making sure you always use condoms properly, or even opting for an IUD for that extra level of protection. That's why when some women are finally ready to get pregnant and can't, it seems like an especially cruel twist of fate. Even though in vitro fertilization exists, it's usually not the one-shot, silver-bullet infertility solution it's made out to be.

" IVF is not a guaranteed pregnancy," Brian Levine, M.D., New York practice director for the Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine , tells SELF. During each cycle of IVF, the majority of women have a success rate of 20-35 percent, according to Resolve , the National Infertility Association. (Keep in mind that a couple with no fertility issues has about a 15-20 percent chance of conceiving each month.) That doesn't mean your chances of getting pregnant with IVF are doomed, just that there's no one-size-fits-all way to go about it. "It's very rare that I have a couple I can't treat, but people have to understand what treatment involves," says Levine.

Namely, IVF may require shots to stimulate your ovaries , other medications to help the eggs mature and prevent premature ovulation, timing your medications properly, getting blood drawn or undergoing vaginal ultrasounds, and dealing with financial strain to top it all off, says Levine. While IVF has made many women's dreams come true, "people quite often don't ever think this is how they're going to start their family," he says. Here, eight women share what they wish they'd known before embarking upon the IVF journey.

1. I wish I'd known how it would change my relationship with my husband.

"My husband and I went through IVF after we tried to conceive naturally for more than three years, and we had success with our second round. I'm currently pregnant with our first child, due January 15.My husband and I have always been very, very close, but going through a major health journey like this for two years brought us even closer than I could have imagined. It turned into a wonderful experience (minus the needles and being tired all the time).

My husband actually passed away very suddenly five weeks ago, a week and a half after our egg transfer and only a few days before I found out I was pregnant. I have really wonderful memories of how incredibly supportive he was and all the hours spent talking about how we wanted to raise our little one. Infertility and IVF are such a roller coaster, but my husband and I went into the experience with a very positive attitude." —Jessica F., 29

2. I wish I'd known that for me, adoption was the answer.

"I did five intrauterine inseminations and six rounds of IVF between 2004 and 2007, including one with donor sperm. I also did a frozen embryo transfer with donor embryos. Receiving the package of IVF meds in the mail was so exciting, then we'd get to the embryo transfer and the excruciating two-week wait to see if it worked. Twice, it did and was so thrilling, but both times, something was wrong with the embryo and I lost the pregnancy.

By Julia Sullivan

By Tatiana Walk-Morris

I wish I'd known from the start how happy I would be as an adoptive mom. I adopted my son after my treatments failed, and I now have the most amazing 8-year-old boy. If the price I had to pay to be his mom was four years of treatments and two miscarriages, then so be it. He was worth the trouble." —Teena M., 48

3. I wish I'd known how often I'd fail.

"I can sum up IVF in three (overused) words: blood, sweat, and tears . You truly don't know how resilient, how strong, and how determined you are until you experience IVF and come out on the other side. But it is something you absolutely must take step by step. It's so easy to get ahead of yourself and set timelines and goals that you will almost undoubtedly fail to reach. With every procedure, every cycle, every phone call with pregnancy results, you must take a deep breath and just concentrate on the next step." — Katie A ., 34

4. I wish I'd known to get other opinions.

"My husband and I went through three cycles of IVF. The process the first time around was definitely new, but by the third time, it actually became strangely routine. I recommend people do whatever they can to stay sane during the process and be extra good to themselves! Also know that it’s OK to get a second or even third opinion. Many patients feel beholden to their doctors and don’t trust their guts. It’s vital that you feel a connection with your doctor and are enthusiastic about the protocol they are recommending. It’s an emotional and important journey, and you should feel good about who is treating you." —Jennifer P., 42

5. I wish I'd known that it doesn't always take the first time around. Or the second. Or the fourth.

"I went through five rounds of IVF and finally just had a baby. Initially, I started off hopefully. Then I would feel sad, then I would feel angry. I also felt like a total failure and would get really down on myself. I wish I'd known so much: Don't count on the first round working. Go to a counselor to help you sort through your feelings. Stick with self-preservation, avoid baby showers, and stay away from social media if you need to. Don’t tell people, or they will constantly ask you the status (if it takes, you want to be in the clear, and if it doesn’t, you won’t want to talk about it). And know your limit mentally and financially. After my fifth round, I planned on it not working and I was ready to move on with my life knowing I tried everything. Once I was getting ready to throw in the towel, IVF worked." —M. Lynn, 38

6. I wish I'd known that it helps to talk about it.

"It was a long road of trying—and losing—before we explored IVF. Most of my pregnancies (there have been many) self-terminated before the eight-week mark. After tests, we realized I carry a chromosomal abnormality, which was likely why babies we produced naturally weren't developing as they should. IVF with preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) was our only option if I wanted to become pregnant with my own healthy child and carry it to term.

I’m not sure there’s anything anyone could have told me to help prepare me—there are the injections and medications, then several appointments for blood tests and ultrasounds, and it's physically exhausting and painful. But just being able to talk to someone about it is helpful. Everyone I know who's gone through IVF has had their own unique experience. I wish I’d been more open to talking about it during the first round, but I didn’t want anyone to know." —Monica H., 38

7. I'm glad I knew that different clinics do things differently.

"I had several pre-existing health conditions that made it unsafe to carry my own child. We went through IVF so we could have a gestational surrogate carry our child. My husband and I were very hopeful. We knew this was our family's story and that made it special.

I did a ton of research on clinics before moving forward with IVF because my doctors only approved me for one round due to my other health conditions. We had to nail it. My research uncovered that IVF philosophies differ from clinic to clinic. Some of the more well known clinics in my area put every patient on the same cycle, and every patient would have their procedures done on the same day, and never on weekends or holidays. But every woman is different. When one woman may be ready for the extraction, another woman could go another day or two on hormone shots in order to get more eggs. The clinic I ended up choosing did cycles and procedures according to when MY body was ready. Our IVF doctor and nurses came in on the July 4th holiday for our transfer! Now we have 15-month old twins, one boy and one girl." —Rachel K., 38

Quotes have been edited and condensed for clarity.

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• Patient Care & Health Information
• Tests & Procedures
• In vitro fertilization (IVF)

• In vitro fertilization

During in vitro fertilization, eggs are removed from sacs called follicles within an ovary (A). An egg is fertilized by injecting a single sperm into the egg or mixing the egg with sperm in a petri dish (B). The fertilized egg, called an embryo, is transferred into the uterus (C).

In vitro fertilization, also called IVF, is a complex series of procedures that can lead to a pregnancy. It's a treatment for infertility, a condition in which you can't get pregnant after at least a year of trying for most couples. IVF also can be used to prevent passing on genetic problems to a child.

During in vitro fertilization, mature eggs are collected from ovaries and fertilized by sperm in a lab. Then a procedure is done to place one or more of the fertilized eggs, called embryos, in a uterus, which is where babies develop. One full cycle of IVF takes about 2 to 3 weeks. Sometimes these steps are split into different parts and the process can take longer.

In vitro fertilization is the most effective type of fertility treatment that involves the handling of eggs or embryos and sperm. Together, this group of treatments is called assisted reproductive technology.

IVF can be done using a couple's own eggs and sperm. Or it may involve eggs, sperm or embryos from a known or unknown donor. In some cases, a gestational carrier — someone who has an embryo implanted in the uterus — might be used.

Your chances of having a healthy baby using IVF depend on many factors, such as your age and the cause of infertility. What's more, IVF involves getting procedures that can be time-consuming, expensive and invasive. If more than one embryo is placed in the uterus, it can result in a pregnancy with more than one baby. This is called a multiple pregnancy.

Your health care team can help you understand how IVF works, what the risks are and whether it's right for you.

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Why it's done

In vitro fertilization is a treatment for infertility or genetic problems. Before you have IVF to treat infertility, you and your partner might be able to try other treatment options that involve fewer or no procedures that enter the body. For example, fertility drugs can help the ovaries make more eggs. And a procedure called intrauterine insemination places sperm directly in the uterus near the time when an ovary releases an egg, called ovulation.

Sometimes, IVF is offered as a main treatment for infertility in people over the age of 40. It also can be done if you have certain health conditions. For example, IVF may be an option if you or your partner has:

• Fallopian tube damage or blockage. Eggs move from the ovaries to the uterus through the fallopian tubes. If both tubes get damaged or blocked, that makes it hard for an egg to be fertilized or for an embryo to travel to the uterus.
• Ovulation disorders. If ovulation doesn't happen or doesn't occur often, fewer eggs are available to be fertilized by sperm.
• Endometriosis. This condition happens when tissue that's like the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. Endometriosis often affects the ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes.
• Uterine fibroids. Fibroids are tumors in the uterus. Most often, they're not cancer. They're common in people in their 30s and 40s. Fibroids can cause a fertilized egg to have trouble attaching to the lining of the uterus.
• Previous surgery to prevent pregnancy. An operation called tubal ligation involves having the fallopian tubes cut or blocked to prevent pregnancy for good. If you wish to conceive after tubal ligation, IVF may help. It might be an option if you don't want or can't get surgery to reverse tubal ligation.
• Issues with sperm. A low number of sperm or unusual changes in their movement, size or shape can make it hard for sperm to fertilize an egg. If medical tests find issues with sperm, a visit to an infertility specialist might be needed to see if there are treatable problems or other health concerns.
• Unexplained infertility. This is when tests can't find the reason for someone's infertility.
• A genetic disorder. If you or your partner is at risk of passing on a genetic disorder to your child, your health care team might recommend getting a procedure that involves IVF . It's called preimplantation genetic testing. After the eggs are harvested and fertilized, they're checked for certain genetic problems. Still, not all of these disorders can be found. Embryos that don't appear to contain a genetic problem can be placed in the uterus.

A desire to preserve fertility due to cancer or other health conditions. Cancer treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy can harm fertility. If you're about to start treatment for cancer, IVF could be a way to still have a baby in the future. Eggs can be harvested from their ovaries and frozen for later use. Or the eggs can be fertilized and frozen as embryos for future use.

People who don't have a working uterus or for whom pregnancy poses a serious health risk might choose IVF using another person to carry the pregnancy. The person is called a gestational carrier. In this case, your eggs are fertilized with sperm, but the embryos that result are placed in the gestational carrier's uterus.

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IVF raises the chances of certain health problems. From short term to longer term, these risks include:

• Stress. IVF can be draining for the body, mind and finances. Support from counselors, family and friends can help you and your partner through the ups and downs of infertility treatment.
• Complications from the procedure to retrieve eggs. After you take medicines to spur the growth of sacs in the ovaries that each contain an egg, a procedure is done to collect the eggs. This is called egg retrieval. Ultrasound images are used to guide a long, thin needle through the vagina and into the sacs, also called follicles, to harvest the eggs. The needle could cause bleeding, infection or damage to the bowel, bladder or a blood vessel. Risks are also linked with medicines that can help you sleep and prevent pain during the procedure, called anesthesia.

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. This is a condition in which the ovaries become swollen and painful. It can be caused by receiving shots of fertility medicines, such as human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), to trigger ovulation.

Symptoms often last up to a week. They include mild belly pain, bloating, upset stomach, vomiting and diarrhea. If you become pregnant, your symptoms might last a few weeks. Rarely, some people get a worse form of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome that also can cause rapid weight gain and shortness of breath.

• Miscarriage. The rate of miscarriage for people who conceive using IVF with fresh embryos is similar to that of people who conceive naturally — about 15% for pregnant people in their 20s to over 50% for those in their 40s. The rate rises with the pregnant person's age.
• Ectopic pregnancy. This is a condition in which a fertilized egg attaches to tissue outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube. The embryo can't survive outside the uterus, and there's no way to continue the pregnancy. A small percentage of people who use IVF will have an ectopic pregnancy.
• Multiple pregnancy. IVF raises the risk of having more than one baby. Becoming pregnant with multiple babies carries higher risks of pregnancy-related high blood pressure and diabetes, early labor and delivery, low birth weight, and birth defects than does pregnancy with a single baby.
• Birth defects. The age of the mother is the main risk factor for birth defects, no matter how the child is conceived. But assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF are linked with a slightly higher risk of a baby being born with heart issues, digestive problems or other conditions. More research is needed to find out if it's IVF that causes this raised risk or something else.
• Premature delivery and low birth weight. Research suggests that IVF slightly raises the risk that the baby will be born early or with a low birth weight.
• Cancer. Some early studies suggested that certain medicines used to stimulate egg growth might be linked with getting a specific type of ovarian tumor. But more-recent studies do not support these findings. There doesn't seem to be a significantly higher risk of breast, endometrial, cervical or ovarian cancer after IVF .

How you prepare

To get started, you'll want to find a reputable fertility clinic. If you live in the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology provide information online about clinics' individual pregnancy and live birth rates.

A fertility clinic's success rate depends on many things. These include the ages and medical issues of people they treat, as well as the clinic's treatment approaches. When you talk with a representative at a clinic, also ask for detailed information about the costs of each step of the procedure.

Before you start a cycle of IVF using your own eggs and sperm, you and your partner will likely need various screening tests. These include:

• Ovarian reserve testing. This involves getting blood tests to find out how many eggs are available in the body. This is also called egg supply. The results of the blood tests, often used together with an ultrasound of the ovaries, can help predict how your ovaries will respond to fertility medicines.
• Semen analysis. Semen is the fluid that contains sperm. An analysis of it can check the amount of sperm, their shape and how they move. This testing may be part of an initial fertility evaluation. Or it might be done shortly before the start of an IVF treatment cycle.
• Infectious disease screening. You and your partner will both be screened for diseases such as HIV .
• Practice embryo transfer. This test doesn't place a real embryo in the uterus. It may be done to figure out the depth of your uterus. It also helps determine the technique that's most likely to work well when one or more actual embryos are inserted.
• Uterine exam. The inside lining of the uterus is checked before you start IVF . This might involve getting a test called sonohysterography. Fluid is sent through the cervix into the uterus using a thin plastic tube. The fluid helps make more-detailed ultrasound images of the uterine lining. Or the uterine exam might include a test called hysteroscopy. A thin, flexible, lighted telescope is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus to see inside it.

Before you begin a cycle of IVF , think about some key questions, including:

How many embryos will be transferred? The number of embryos placed in the uterus often is based on age and the number of eggs collected. Since the rate of fertilized eggs attaching to the lining of uterus is lower for older people, usually more embryos are transferred — except for people who use donor eggs from a young person, genetically tested embryos or in certain other cases.

Most health care professionals follow specific guidelines to prevent a multiple pregnancy with triplets or more. In some countries, legislation limits the number of embryos that can be transferred. Make sure you and your care team agree on the number of embryos that will be placed in the uterus before the transfer procedure.

What will you do with any extra embryos? Extra embryos can be frozen and stored for future use for many years. Not all embryos will survive the freezing and thawing process, but most will.

Having frozen embryos can make future cycles of IVF less expensive and less invasive. Or you might be able to donate unused frozen embryos to another couple or a research facility. You also might choose to discard unused embryos. Make sure you feel comfortable making decisions about extra embryos before they are created.

• How will you handle a multiple pregnancy? If more than one embryo is placed in your uterus, IVF can cause you to have a multiple pregnancy. This poses health risks for you and your babies. In some cases, a surgery called fetal reduction can be used to help a person deliver fewer babies with lower health risks. Getting fetal reduction is a major decision with ethical, emotional and mental risks.
• Have you thought through the risks linked with using donor eggs, sperm or embryos, or a gestational carrier? A trained counselor with expertise in donor issues can help you understand the concerns, such as the legal rights of the donor. You also may need an attorney to file court papers to help you become legal parents of an embryo that's developing in the uterus.

What you can expect

After the preparations are completed, one cycle of IVF can take about 2 to 3 weeks. More than one cycle may be needed. The steps in a cycle go as follows:

Treatment to make mature eggs

The start of an IVF cycle begins by using lab-made hormones to help the ovaries to make eggs — rather than the single egg that usually develops each month. Multiple eggs are needed because some eggs won't fertilize or develop correctly after they're combined with sperm.

Certain medicines may be used to:

• Stimulate the ovaries. You might receive shots of hormones that help more than one egg develop at a time. The shot may contain a follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a luteinizing hormone (LH) or both.
• Help eggs mature. A hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), or other medicines, can help the eggs ripen and get ready to be released from their sacs, called follicles, in the ovaries.
• Delay ovulation. These medicines prevent the body from releasing the developing eggs too soon.
• Prepare the lining of the uterus. You might start to take supplements of the hormone progesterone on the day of the procedure to collect your eggs. Or you might take these supplements around the time an embryo is placed in the uterus. They improve the odds that a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of your uterus.

Your doctor decides which medicines to use and when to use them.

Most often, you'll need 1 to 2 weeks of ovarian stimulation before your eggs are ready to be collected with the egg retrieval procedure. To figure out when the eggs are ready, you may need:

• Vaginal ultrasound, an imaging exam of the ovaries to track the developing follicles. Those are the fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries where eggs mature.
• Blood tests, to check on how you respond to ovarian stimulation medicines. Estrogen levels often rise as follicles develop. Progesterone levels remain low until after ovulation.

Sometimes, IVF cycles need to be canceled before the eggs are collected. Reasons for this include:

• Not enough follicles develop.
• Ovulation happens too soon.
• Too many follicles develop, raising the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
• Other medical issues happen.

If your cycle is canceled, your care team might recommend changing medicines or the amounts you take, called doses. This might lead to a better response during future IVF cycles. Or you may be advised that you need an egg donor.

Egg retrieval

This is the procedure to collect the eggs from one or both ovaries. It takes place in your doctor's office or a clinic. The procedure is done 34 to 36 hours after the final shot of fertility medicine and before ovulation.

• Before egg retrieval, you'll be given medicine to help you relax and keep you from feeling pain.
• An ultrasound device is placed into the vagina to find follicles. Those are the sacs in the ovaries that each contain an egg. Then a thin needle is inserted into an ultrasound guide to go through the vagina and into the follicles to collect the eggs. This process is called transvaginal ultrasound aspiration.
• If your ovaries can't be reached through the vagina this way, an ultrasound of the stomach area may be used to guide the needle through the stomach and into the ovaries.
• The eggs are removed from the follicles through a needle connected to a suction device. Multiple eggs can be removed in about 20 minutes.
• After the procedure, you may have cramping and feelings of fullness or pressure.
• Mature eggs are placed in a liquid that helps them develop. Eggs that appear healthy and mature will be mixed with sperm to attempt to create embryos. But not all eggs are able to be fertilized with success.

Sperm retrieval

If you're using your partner's sperm, a semen sample needs to be collected at your doctor's office or clinic the morning of egg retrieval. Or sperm can be collected ahead of time and frozen.

Most often, the semen sample is collected through masturbation. Other methods can be used if a person can't ejaculate or has no sperm in the semen. For example, a procedure called testicular aspiration uses a needle or surgery to collect sperm directly from the testicle. Sperm from a donor also can be used. Sperm are separated from the semen fluid in the lab.

Fertilization

Two common methods can be used to try to fertilize eggs with sperm:

• Conventional insemination. Healthy sperm and mature eggs are mixed and kept in a controlled environment called an incubator.
• Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). A single healthy sperm is injected right into each mature egg. Often, ICSI is used when semen quality or number is an issue. Or it might be used if fertilization attempts during prior IVF cycles didn't work.

In certain situations, other procedures may be recommended before embryos are placed in the uterus. These include:

Assisted hatching. About 5 to 6 days after fertilization, an embryo "hatches" from the thin layer that surrounds it, called a membrane. This lets the embryo attach to the lining of the uterus.

If you're older and you want to get pregnant, or if you have had past IVF attempts that didn't work, a technique called assisted hatching might be recommended. With this procedure, a hole is made in the embryo's membrane just before the embryo is placed in the uterus. This helps the embryo hatch and attach to the lining of the uterus. Assisted hatching is also useful for eggs or embryos that were frozen, as that process can harden the membrane.

Preimplantation genetic testing. Embryos are allowed to develop in the incubator until they reach a stage where a small sample can be removed. The sample is tested for certain genetic diseases or the correct number of threadlike structures of DNA, called chromosomes. There are usually 46 chromosomes in each cell. Embryos that don't contain affected genes or chromosomes can be transferred to the uterus.

Preimplantation genetic testing can lower the chances that a parent will pass on a genetic problem. It can't get rid of the risk completely. Prenatal testing may still be recommended during pregnancy.

Embryo transfer

Egg-retrieval technique

Typically, transvaginal ultrasound aspiration is used to retrieve eggs. During this procedure, an ultrasound probe is inserted into the vagina to identify follicles. A needle is guided through the vagina and into the follicles. The eggs are removed from the follicles through the needle, which is connected to a suction device.

In intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), a single healthy sperm is injected directly into each mature egg. ICSI often is used when semen quality or number is a problem or if fertilization attempts during prior in vitro fertilization cycles failed.

Three days after fertilization, a healthy embryo will contain about 6 to 10 cells. By the fifth or sixth day, the fertilized egg is known as a blastocyst — a rapidly dividing ball of cells. The inner group of cells will become the embryo. The outer group will become the cells that nourish and protect it.

The procedure to place one or more embryos in the uterus is done at your doctor's office or a clinic. It often takes place 2 to 6 days after eggs are collected.

• You might be given a mild sedative to help you relax. The procedure is often painless, but you might have mild cramping.
• A long, thin, flexible tube called a catheter is placed into the vagina, through the cervix and into the uterus.
• A syringe that contains one or more embryos in a small amount of fluid is attached to the end of the catheter.
• Using the syringe, the embryo or embryos are placed into the uterus.

If the procedure works, an embryo will attach to the lining of your uterus about 6 to 10 days after egg retrieval.

After the procedure

After the embryo transfer, you can get back to your usual daily routine. Your ovaries may still be enlarged, so vigorous activities or sex might cause discomfort. Ask your care team how long you should stay away from these.

Typical side effects include:

• Passing a small amount of clear or bloody fluid shortly after the procedure. This is due to the swabbing of the cervix before the embryo transfer.
• Breast tenderness due to high estrogen levels.
• Mild bloating.
• Mild cramping.
• Constipation.

Call your care team if you have moderate or severe pain, or heavy bleeding from the vagina after the embryo transfer. You'll likely to need to get checked for complications such as infection, twisting of an ovary and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.

At least 12 days after egg retrieval, you get a blood test to find out whether you're pregnant.

• If you're pregnant, you'll likely be referred to an obstetrician or other pregnancy specialist for prenatal care.
• If you're not pregnant, you'll stop taking progesterone and likely get your period within a week. Call your care team if you don't get your period or if you have unusual bleeding. If you'd like to try another cycle of IVF , your care team might suggest steps you can take to improve your chances of getting pregnant next time.

The chances of giving birth to a healthy baby after using IVF depend on various factors, including:

• Maternal age. The younger you are, the more likely you are to get pregnant and give birth to a healthy baby using your own eggs during IVF . Often, people 40 and older are counseled to think about using donor eggs during IVF to boost the chances of success.
• Embryo status. Transfer of embryos that are more developed is linked with higher pregnancy rates compared with less-developed embryos. But not all embryos survive the development process. Talk with your care team about your specific situation.
• Reproductive history. People who've given birth before are more likely to be able to get pregnant using IVF than are people who've never given birth. Success rates are lower for people who've already tried IVF multiple times but didn't get pregnant.
• Cause of infertility. Having an average supply of eggs raises your chances of being able to get pregnant using IVF . People who have severe endometriosis are less likely to be able to get pregnant using IVF than are those who have infertility without a clear cause.
• Lifestyle factors. Smoking can lower the chance of success with IVF . Often, people who smoke have fewer eggs retrieved during IVF and may miscarry more often. Obesity also can lower the chances of getting pregnant and having a baby. Use of alcohol, drugs, too much caffeine and certain medicines also can be harmful.

Talk with your care team about any factors that apply to you and how they may affect your chances of a successful pregnancy.

Clinical trials

Explore Mayo Clinic studies of tests and procedures to help prevent, detect, treat or manage conditions.

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• Commonly asked questions about the US national ART surveillance system. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/art/reports/2019/commonly-asked-questions.html. Accessed Feb. 27, 2023.
• Evaluation before IVF. Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology. https://www.sart.org/patients/sart-patient-evaluation/. Accessed Feb. 27, 2023.
• Multifetal pregnancy reduction. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2017/09/multifetal-pregnancy-reduction. Accessed Feb. 27, 2023.
• Third party reproduction. Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology. https://www.sart.org/patients/third-party-reproduction/. Accessed Feb. 27, 2023.
• Ho J. In vitro fertilization: Overview of clinical issues and questions. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Feb. 27, 2023.
• American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Fertility drugs and cancer: A guideline. Fertility and Sterility. 2016; doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.08.035.
• Bart CJM. Overview of ovulation induction. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed March 2, 2023.
• Gershenson DM, et al. In vitro fertilization. In: Comprehensive Gynecology. 8th ed. Elsevier; 2022. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed March 2, 2023.
• Barcroft JF, et al. Fertility treatment and cancers-the eternal conundrum: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Human Reproduction. 2021; doi:10.1093/humrep/deaa293.
• Hornstein MD, et al. Endometriosis: Treatment of infertility in females. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed March 2, 2023.
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A typical IVF journey

A typical IVF journey, whether it is for the first time or trying again, can also be called a ‘stimulated cycle’. This is because your treatment will involve taking drugs that stimulate your body so we can collect a number of eggs for fertilisation.

If you’re not sure which options are best for you, you can attend one of our FREE information events or contact your local clinic to understand your options.

1. Referrals

Your referral may come from your GP or hospital doctor, or you can self-refer. Learn more about the referrals process .

2. Pre-treatment

Preliminary fertility assessment tests and screening

To make the best decision about your treatment in the consultation, your doctor needs the results of some tests. There may be a combination of blood tests and a vaginal ultrasound scan to assess your ovaries, and a semen assessment where appropriate. Learn more about TFP fertility assessment packages .

Initial consultation

At your first consultation with a TFP fertility specialist, they will cover your medical history and explain your test results. You and your doctor will then discuss their recommended programme of treatment based on your personal results and circumstances.

3. Counselling

Counselling is available at any stage of your treatment pathway. Fertility treatment is a significant emotional journey for all patients, and counselling provides extra emotional support.

It is completely confidential. If you are going to be using donated eggs or sperm for your treatment, then you’ll be recommended to see the counsellor before starting treatment to discuss the implications for both you and any children that may be born. Learn more about fertility counselling .

4.Treatment planning appointment

At your treatment planning appointment one of our specialist fertility nurses will explain your treatment in full. You will be taken through your regime of drugs and shown how to use them.

You will have the opportunity to ask questions regarding your forthcoming treatment. It’s also the time when you officially consent to undergo fertility treatment , and we go over the legal side of things.

This is an important part of the process which ensures that your parenthood will be recognised legally after treatment. We require that everyone involved in the treatment comes to the treatment planning appointment. It generally takes 60 minutes. We use an online consent platform where you will be able to watch videos prior to electronically signing your consent. If you are funding your own treatment, you will need to pay for your treatment programme at this point. Once all the tests, consent forms and payment are completed, you are ready to start your IVF cycle. Learn more about the treatment planning appointment . 

5. Starting treatment

Your treatment will start on the first day of your period. You will need to call the clinic to let us know and to receive the instruction to start the treatment plan, as explained by your fertility specialist in your consultation and nurse in your planning appointment. As you’re not undergoing ovarian stimulation, you may or may not have drugs to take in this cycle; this will be agreed upon with your doctor at your consultation. If you have a regular menstrual cycle, we will monitor you so that we can transfer the embryo(s) at the best point in your ‘natural cycle’.

6. Ovarian stimulation and monitoring

In general, treatment starts with drugs that stimulate your ovaries. This enables us to collect a number of eggs for insemination, rather than the usual single egg. The drugs are injections that can be taken at home – you’ll be shown how to do this.

Over a period of around two weeks of stimulation, you’re likely to have one to three scans and possibly blood tests, to monitor the development of the egg-producing follicles.

These are short appointments that last around 20 minutes, and the results are available later the same day. The timings are different for everyone, because treatment is tailored to suit each patient individually.

7. Trigger injection

Once your follicles are ready, the stimulation period ends with an injection that matures the eggs in the follicles to get them ready for egg collection.

8. Egg collection

The appointment to collect the eggs will take place 36-40 hours after the trigger injection. The procedure takes about half an hour, and you will be given drugs to make you sleepy during the procedure.

With the help of a scanning probe, a very fine needle is passed through the vaginal wall and into the ovary to collect the eggs. Usually, around 80% of follicles contain an egg. As you will have had sedation you cannot drive or operate machinery for 24 hours and you will need someone to stay with you.

9. Providing sperm

If your treatment uses a fresh sperm sample, it will be provided on the same day as the eggs. You provide the sample at the clinic, in one of our andrology (men’s) rooms. If you’re providing the sample via a surgical procedure, this will take place before the egg collection day, and the sample will be be frozen.

If you already have sperm in storage, or have been matched to a sperm donor, the sample will be thawed on the same day that the eggs are collected.

10. Insemination of the eggs

The sperm sample provided is prepared to ensure that the very best sperm are being used for insemination.

IVF – Prepared sperm will be added to the eggs in a culture dish.

ICSI – A single sperm will be selected and injected into each egg then put into a culture dish.

The culture dishes are placed in the incubator to allow fertilisation to take place.

11. Embryo development

The embryos are carefully monitored in the period after insemination, first to check for fertilisation, then for signs for development which indicate the embryo is growing. Time-lapse monitoring allows us to carefully monitor embryo development. Click here to learn more about time-lapse monitoring . The clinic will be able to update you on embryo development.

Shortly after egg collection, you may also start taking drugs to help prepare your uterus lining to receive an embryo (this is known as Luteal Phase Support).

If your treatment plan includes genetic testing, then this will happen during this phase.

12. Embryo transfer

The frozen embryo transfer takes place 5 days after egg collection. The embryos are monitored carefully in the Embryoscope by our Embryologists. The procedure can feel like a smear test, but it takes longer: around 15 minutes. A tiny drop of culture medium containing one or two embryos is carefully deposited in the uterus using a thin catheter.

If you decided before treatment to store any further good quality embryos for further cycles, you’ll be consulted again, and it will happen at this stage.

13. The wait

At TFP fertility clinic we appreciate how difficult this two-week wait can be. Please call us at any time if you are concerned; no worry is too small. It’s a good idea to make plans for after embryo transfer to help you feel more in control. Try to live life as normally as possible.

14. The outcome

Positive test.

If you’re pregnant, we schedule a scan in the clinic at around six to eight weeks. If everything looks good, then you’re discharged to your GP.

Negative test

If your period arrives before the test is due or if the test is negative, rest assured you are not alone.

We can meet to talk, review your treatment, and consider what the next step will be on your IVF journey. IVF conception often takes place over a number of cycles. You could be ready for a new cycle within a short time, even a couple of months if you have frozen embryos, but this is completely up to you.

Watch these 2 videos about:

What happens when a patient first starts their fertility journey with TFP?

What are the most challenging parts of the IVF journey for patients?

This service is offered in the following clinics:

TFP Belfast Fertility

BT3 9JQ Belfast

028 9009 7315

TFP 92 Harley Street

W1G 7HU London

0207 160 6379

TFP Boston Place Fertility

NW1 6ER London

0203 131 2152

TFP Wessex Fertility

SO15 5QS Southampton

0203 1318630

TFP Thames Valley Fertility

SL6 4BY Maidenhead

01628 702632

TFP Simply Fertility

CM2 8HN Chelmsford

01245 371849

TFP Oxford Fertility

OX4 2HW Oxford

01865 224819

TFP Nurture Fertility

NG10 5QG Nottingham

+44 0115 828 0246

TFP GCRM Fertility

G51 4FD Glasgow

0141 413 0715

Ready to start your fertility journey? We're here for you

Schedule an appointment to start your fertility journey with us.

• IVF journey

The patient IVF journey

Are you a patient learn more about ivf and its different steps below., maximise your chances of ivf success.

If you’re having trouble becoming pregnant, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) may be right for you. IVF is used to treat a range of fertility problems, including unexplained infertility.

An IVF cycle (round of treatment) involves several different steps that will help you increase the chances of becoming pregnant.

What is IVF?

About one in six couples have difficulty conceiving naturally. 1-2 But there’s always hope. In vitro fertilisation, or just ‘IVF’, may be right for you.

Watch the video to learn more about the different steps in the IVF journey. 

Collecting the eggs easily and successfully with Sense

A retrieval needle, called Sense, gives you a fast and precise egg collection that retrieves the maximal amount of undamaged eggs without complications. 

Growing and selecting the best embryo with EmbryoScope+

Embryologists are able to monitor your embryos' development without removing them from the safe environment of the incubator.

Helping your embryos to implant with EmbryoGlue

EmbryoGlue is a medium that closely resembles the environment in the womb at the time of implantation, which can support implantation even more.

Improving your chances

In the mid-1980s, the pregnancy rate after IVF treatment was on average approximately 15% and had the side effect of a high rate of twins and triplets. By the end of the 1990s, the corresponding figure increased to approximately 25-35% overall, although these chances vary with age and other patient factors.

The reasons behind this improvement are mainly due to refinement of the IVF method and the further development of the components used in IVF. The pregnancy rate largely depends on the group being treated. Age, diagnosis and the quality of embryos transferred are all important predictors of the chance of pregnancy.

We share your dream

Vitrolife was established in Sweden in 1994 when the field of assisted reproduction was still young. The possibility to help people become parents through assisted reproduction became a reality in the 1960s, following the development of IVF. The birth of Louise Brown in 1978 – the first baby born as a result of IVF – gave new hope to men and women suffering from infertility.

As IVF techniques developed the importance of individual components on IVF success began to be understood. Since then Vitrolife has manufactured and supplied these components to IVF clinics all over the world.

The Vitrolife’s Group’s vision is to fulfil the dream of having a healthy baby. Our products and services are available in more than 110 countries, through our own presence in 30 countries and a vast network of distributors for the rest of the world. We are on a mission to be the leading valued solution provider in reproductive health and to support customers with successful treatment outcomes. We have one purpose: to fulfil the dream of having a healthy baby.

All content © Vitrolife 2024. Products shown on this website might not be available on all markets.

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The Fertility Answers Podcast can help you navigate your fertility journey!

Join expert reproductive endocrinologists and fertility specialists Neil Chappell, M.D. and  John Storment, M.D., (and sometimes some of their patients) for in-depth looks into fertility topics. Each episode tackles a new subject in the realm of fertility diagnosis and treatment. The Fertility Answers Podcast is your answer to all the common questions you have as you navigate your own fertility journey. Be sure to check back here for future episodes.

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Have a Fertility Question You'd Like Answered? Tell Us!

Episode 30: unintended consequences of embryo personhood.

In this special and timely podcast, your host Dr. Neil Chappell is joined by fellow Fertility Answers reproductive endocrinologist Dr. John Storment to discuss the February 2024 Alabama Supreme Court ruling that deemed frozen embryos as children with legal status. This ruling came about after several Alabama couples sued for wrongful death of a minor when their embryos were accidentally destroyed by a person who wandered into an IVF lab. Dr. Chappell and Dr. Storment discuss IVF lab security as well as what an embryo represents for the potential for life and the possible downstream consequences of granting an embryo the same status as a living child.

Episode 29: Unraveling the Link Between Insulin Resistance and Fertility

Women with insulin resistance not only struggle with their overall health but their fertility as well. Join your host Dr. Neil Chappell as he delves into the intricate relationship between insulin resistance and fertility. Learn the science behind insulin resistance, the best way to test for it and how this condition not only affects your metabolism and other important bodily functions, but also reproduction. Discover actionable strategies you can use against insulin resistance through diet, exercise and pharmacology to improve your overall health, optimize fertility and achieve your goal of parenthood.

Episode 28: A Conversation on Egg Freezing with Olympic Athlete Lolo Jones

Join Dr. Neil Chappell in this entertaining and candid conversation with Olympian and former LSU track star Lolo Jones on her recent egg freezing journey with Fertility Answers. Approaching her 40th birthday and still single, Lolo feared she was running out of time to have children. Listen as they walk through her process of searching for information about egg freezing, costs and testing involved, and what her expectations were going in compared to how it actually all went down. After going through two egg freezing cycles, she has a lot to share!

Episode 27: Marijuana and Making Babies

Marijuana and THC use has gained followers in recent years as many states have legalized it for medicinal or recreational purposes. But, there are still many questions surrounding how marijuana and THC can affect the fertility potential of both men and women. Join Fertility Answers reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Neil Chappell as he delves into some of the recent research that attempts to determine the possible fertility risks of THC on human reproduction. 

Read transcript: The Fertility Answers Podcast Episode 27 Marijuana and Making Babies

Episode 26: Progesterone – A Misunderstood Hormone’s Complicated Relationship to Pregnancy Loss

Progesterone is a hormone secreted after ovulation that prepares the lining of the uterus for a potential pregnancy. Because of its important role at the beginning of conception and well into pregnancy, there is often a false assumption that low levels of progesterone are responsible for all miscarriages. In this episode, reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Neil Chappell breaks down the role of progesterone, why spot checking for this hormone can be misleading, and when and how to add progesterone therapy if recurrent miscarriage is a concern.

Episode 25: Shifting Gears – When and How to Move on From Treatment

While most women seeking fertility treatments eventually become pregnant, a small subset are never able to medically overcome infertility and seek other avenues to a family or resolve to live childless. When is it time to say enough is enough? How do you give yourself permission to admit that you’ve given it your best shot, but now is the time to stop treatment? In this episode, Dr. Neil Chappell tackles the tough subject of when and how to move on from fertility treatments and how faith, family and finances can influence your decision.

Episode 24: How We Limit Twin+ Pregnancies in ART Procedures

There is no doubt that assisted reproductive technologies used in fertility treatment, such as intrauterine insemination and in vitro fertilization, have contributed to the rise in the number of twins and triplets over the last several decades. It’s not uncommon for our patients to even ask for a twin pregnancy. However, multiple gestation pregnancies bring risks to both the mother and the babies due to added health issues and pre-term delivery, as well as added financial costs, often throughout the lifetime of the child. In this podcast episode, reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Neil Chappell explains what can cause multiple gestation pregnancies when using different forms of ART, and ways physicians are now bringing the incidence of twin pregnancies down to levels that correlate with natural twin rates.

Episode 23: Overcoming the Stress of Infertility

The level of stress experienced by individuals and couples diagnosed with infertility is nothing to dismiss. Experts equate the distress and trauma one gets with being diagnosed as infertile the same as getting a cancer diagnosis. Join us in this special conversation with Samantha Rauber, LPC, a licensed counselor certified in perinatal mental health in the Baton Rouge area, who discusses how a diagnosis of infertility can become a real emotional crisis for many. Learn about the ways she counsels patients to deal with the stress infertility creates, tried and true coping mechanisms, how partners and others can support you, and how to deal with those who just don’t get it.

Episode 22: Mosaic Embryos – What They Are and How They Affect Your IVF Journey

If you’re an IVF patient you’ve maybe heard your fertility specialist or embryologist use the term “mosaic” to describe your embryo after genetic testing. As embryo genetic testing has advanced over the last few years, geneticists are learning that not all embryos fall neatly into the classification of either normal or abnormal, but some can fall into a spectrum in between called mosaicism. Listen as our host Dr. Neil Chappell welcomes Caroline Stites, a genetics counselor at Woman’s Hospital, Baton Rouge, LA, who helps us explain what a mosaic embryo is and what it means to you and your fertility journey.

Episode 21: A Septum Story of Uterine Anomalies

Uterine anomalies and structural problems with the female reproductive organs, such as uterine septums, are often associated with increased miscarriage. In this episode, Dr. Neil Chappell discusses uterine anomalies with Fertility Answers patient Emma who came to our center with a history of miscarriages and a uterine septum. Find out more about what that means, what to do about it, and what the journey can look like in this all encompassing conversation about uterine anomalies.

Episode 20: Acupuncture and Fertility – What are the Benefits?

East meets West in this special episode featuring Dr. Jan Morello, a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician in Baton Rouge. Her strong interest in holistic approaches and combining Eastern and Western medicine led her to become a licensed acupuncturist through Harvard Medical School. Based on thousands of years of practice in Eastern medicine, acupuncture uses tiny needles to restore the energy flow throughout the body. While the scientific jury is still out on whether acupuncture actually does help with fertility, research has noted that it can increase production of endorphins, the body’s natural “feel good” brain chemical that also plays a role in regulating hormones. Take a listen to Dr. Neil Chappell’s chat with practicing acupuncturist Dr. Morello as she explains how it works and what benefits you can possibly get during fertility treatment.

Episode 19: An Update on COVID-19 and the Vaccines – Searching for the Truth

It’s been over eight months since the vaccines have come out and we’ve learned quite a bit in that time. With close to 170 million fully-vaccinated people in the U.S., the preliminary research shows that the vaccines are doing their job of saving lives. But there is a lot of varied information and opinions about the vaccines, and we know you want truthful answers from people you trust. In this episode, Dr. Neil Chappell updates you on the status of the more contagious delta variant, what research has revealed in relation to the vaccines on pregnancy and fertility, and debunks some of the myths about the vaccines. Our mission is to bring you the most up-to-date facts and help you make the best decisions while building your family!

Episode 18: LGBTQ+ Family Building: What Are the Options for Lesbian Women?

It’s Pride Month and we’ve got a special podcast for our LGBT listeners who have been curious as to their options for family building. In this episode, Dr. Neil Chappell talks with patient Katelyn to take an in-depth look into the options she and her wife Alana considered, tried, and were successful at during their family building journey. Our discussion explores the pros and cons of home inseminations versus clinic-monitored inseminations, how to buy and handle donor sperm, and reciprocal IVF for lesbian women which allows both partners to be a part of the journey.

Episode 17: AMH and HSG – Tests to Assess Your Egg Bank and Your Fertility Highway

What are the first line tests essential in the female fertility work-up? Join Dr. Neil Chappell and Fertility Answers physician assistant Grace Pitt, PA, as they discuss anti-Mullerian hormone testing (AMH) and the hysterosalpingogram dye test (HSG) as the first two essential tests for diagnosing female infertility. AMH testing gives us clues to your remaining supply of eggs and fertility potential while an HSG tells us whether your fallopian tubes are open, an essential criteria for fertilization. Learn more about how these tests are conducted, what the numbers mean, and how the results can refine treatment options and timelines.

Episode 16: Exercise and Eggs

Let’s get physical! In this first episode of 2021, Dr. Chappell joins up with Joanna, a physical trainer with a passion for pregnancy, to discuss exercise. Everyone knows that exercise is good for you, but how to put that into action is another thing! Here, Joanna gives actionable tips and advice on how to get moving right away, key exercises to incorporate day to day, and how to keep in the groove. Plus, how to know when enough is enough. So what are you waiting for? Give it a listen and get one step further on the road to Fertility Fit!

Episode 15: COVID And the Vaccine(s)

COVID has dominated the year of 2020 so it’s fitting that the beginning of the end of COVID comes into our lives at the end of this tumultuous year. The vaccines are here! And with the vaccines, a host of questions follows. What kind of vaccine is it? Is it safe? Who can take it? We will tackle the most up to date guidelines and provide a framework to figure out what’s right for you!

Episode 14: Sperm Testing – What it is and what it ain’t

The semen analysis – one of the three most important screening tests in the fertility workup, though arguably one of the least understood. Join Dr. Neil Chappell as he sits down once again with Fertility Answers IVF Lab Director Dr. Chelsey Leisinger to cover each component. Motility, morphology, concentration, total motile count…what’s important, and how to piece all of it together to form a plan for the next steps.

Episode 13: Understanding Fertility Preservation Options in the Face of a Cancer Diagnosis

Cancer can be a devastating diagnosis, especially in younger women with a full life ahead of them. But in many cases, the conversation of fertility preservation can get missed or overlooked in a patient’s consultations with oncologists in the rush to begin cancer treatment. In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, join Dr. Neil Chappell as he discusses fertility preservation before cancer treatment with Baton Rouge breast surgeon Dr. Mindy Bowie. In this timely discussion, learn about what conversations you should be having with your oncology team in terms of fertility preservation options, when preservation treatment should be done and the amount of time needed to freeze eggs, embryos or tissue prior to treatment.

Episode 12: A Primer on PCOS

September is PCOS awareness month, so we decided to take a very ambitious leap and present an overview of this extremely complex disorder. Join host Dr. Neil Chappell as he provides some thoughts on what goes awry in PCOS and what we can do about it. We take you through the basic mechanics of the menstrual cycle and how PCOS changes the game. With a focus on what symptoms to look for and what questions to ask to make sure you have control over PCOS, we hope this latest episode helps you out on your journey!

Episode 11: A Carrier Conversation

In this episode, Dr. Neil Chappell sits down with Hillary Janani, RN, MS, CGC, a licensed genetics counselor, to discuss carrier screening. Carrier screens are increasingly being discussed at routine doctor visits, and are a really important consideration for anyone in their reproductive years. So, we thought it worth a short discussion with an expert to arm patients with a few good facts to be prepared with! What is carrier screening, and what is it not? Who should consider carrier screening and when? Why does this matter for fertility treatments? How should I interpret positive or negative results? Enjoy this great conversation as Hillary guides us through what you need to know!

Episode 10: Let’s Talk About IUI

Intrauterine insemination, or IUI for short, is one of the most commonly used infertility treatments. As an infertility patient, this is sometimes one of the first type of treatment protocols your doctor may prescribe for you, depending on your specific diagnosis. In this episode, join Dr. Neil Chappell and Fertility Answers IVF nurse Caroline Porter as they discuss the details of an IUI treatment cycle and what to expect throughout the process.

Episode 9: Eggs, Sperm and Embryos: An Insider’s Look Into the Embryology Lab

In this episode, Dr. Neil Chappell is joined by Fertility Answers own Dr. Chelsey Leisinger, PhD. As our chief embryologist and lab director, Dr. Leisinger answers some of the more commonly asked questions about what goes on after the egg retrieval, taking our listeners through the humble beginnings of the egg, its fertilization, and on to the early stages of an embryo’s life. Is it best to freeze eggs or embryos? What does maturity mean? What is ICSI, really? Day 3 versus Day 5 transfers? From embryo grading to embryo glue, this episode was so fun to make, we will be sure to bring her back for part 2 and maybe even part 3!

Episode 8: Diet and Fertility

Ever wonder about food and fertility? Calories and conception? Protein and pregnancy? Join host Dr. Neil Chappell as we tackle the questions of what to eat when trying to conceive. We will discuss macros, diet fads, and supplements to tailor your meal planning for a healthy and happy “bun in the oven.” Enjoy!

Episode 7: The Environment and You

What can I be doing to help egg and sperm quality and improve the health of my future pregnancy? Given the times we are in with COVID-19, Dr. Neil Chappell takes a few minutes to do a different podcast episode exploring how foods, heavy metals, pesticides and endocrine disruptors can affect your body and that of a growing baby. He suggests some easy changes that you can implement at home today to boost egg and sperm quality as well as the uterine environment. Enjoy this quarantined conversation about environmental exposures and what you can do about them.

Episode 6: The Adoption Option

Shannon and Scott knew they were meant to be parents. They describe a calling to build a big family, and this led them to a path we don’t always get to talk about in the fertility world. Listen to their story as they dive down into the world of adoption, describing the decisions they came across, and how their approach ended with a happy surprise.

Episode 5: Misconceptions, Fears and Barriers to IVF

In this episode, join Dr. Neil Chappell and Dr. John Storment as they hash out some of the top misconceptions, fears and barriers to IVF that they hear on a regular basis from patients. During this candid discussion the doctors tackle tough patient concerns like the fear of creating too many embryos, having twins or more, being off-the-charts hormonal from the stimulation drugs, and worries that IVF is a really long process. They also deliberate misconceptions on insurance coverage, the fear of being swindled by unnecessary procedures, and wrap it up with a discussion of alternative IVF therapies that patients regularly bring up. If you are considering IVF as your next step in your infertility journey, this is one episode not to miss!

Episode 4: It’s About Time(ing)!

What do you do when your partner’s job only allows him limited time for family planning, especially when you have fertility issues. In this episode we introduce you to Heather who is young and newly married and wanting to start a family, but has two very real issues to deal with: numerous recurring uterine fibroids needing surgery and a husband whose career leaves him little flexibility. Listen as she details her decision processes for fibroid removal surgery and her expectations for subsequent fertility treatment timing.

Episode 3: Decisions, Decisions!

In this episode, we invite you to walk in another infertile couple’s shoes as they discuss their decision-making process to go straight to IVF and what they did to keep sane during treatment. After Bre’s diagnosis of lean PCOS, she and husband Cameron came to the decision to bypass other treatment options for one they felt offered more assurances. Learn how they found support when their infertility was a total secret to friends and family and how they made their journey fun to get them through to their final “reveal” on social media. Now the parents to a beautiful little girl conceived through IVF, the couple reveals the unique ways they were able to make their journey to parenthood just as memorable as someone doing it the “natural” way.

Episode 2: Let’s Get Busy!

It takes two to tango, and in this frank discussion we pull back the covers on the myths surrounding how to have sex to get pregnant. In this episode reproductive endocrinologists and fertility specialists Neil Chappell, M.D., and John Storment, M.D., both of Fertility Answers, get into the nitty-gritty of how often, when and how a couple trying to conceive should have sex. You might just be surprised at the answers! Listen as the doctors discuss the right way to time intercourse to optimize your chances of catching your window of ovulation, how often you should be having sex, if position matters, and how to interpret the results of ovulation predictor kits in the right way.

Episode 1: Demystifying the First Visit

In our first episode, meet expert reproductive endocrinologists and fertility specialists John Storment, M.D. and Neil Chappell, M.D. of Fertility Answers, a fertility practice focused on helping build families. “Demystifying the First Visit” outlines what this first visit with a fertility doctor might look like, highlighting the discussions you should expect to have with the physician and the possible tests that will provide answers and direction for future treatment. We want to demystify the journey and de-stigmatize fertility conversations once and for all.

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Our Response to the Alabama IVF Ruling

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IVF Success Stories: 44 Parents Share Their Family-Building Journeys

October 11th, 2023 | 14 min. read

By Sierra Dehmler

When you find out you need the help of fertility treatment to conceive, it can lead to feelings of isolation and hopelessness. Thankfully, there is a welcoming community of parents who have chosen to share their IVF success stories to help others feel a little less alone. 

In this article: Finding Hope in IVF Success Stories An Honest Look at the World of IVF IVF Success After Cancer Stories Egg Donor IVF Success Stories LGBTQ+ IVF Success Stories PCOS & Endometriosis IVF Success Stories Male Factor Infertility IVF Success Stories Single Mom by Choice IVF Stories IVF for Genetic Conditions Tubal Factor Infertility IVF Stories You Deserve the Family of Your Dreams

Finding Hope in IVF Success Stories

Although public discourse is steadily increasing around the topic of infertility and fertility treatment, there are still layers of stigma and shame associated with not being able to conceive. One of the best ways to combat this is through sharing our experiences . 

When fertility patients open up and tell their stories, they bring more than hope to those struggling to grow their families - they also offer a glimpse into a world that is not often visible. Now on the other side of the storm of infertility, these grateful parents have chosen to break the silence and share what their journey to parenthood really looked like. 

An Honest Look at the World of IVF

In the following stories, you'll meet a diverse array of former Illume Fertility patients who have navigated challenges like PCOS , male factor infertility, endometriosis, cancer treatment , secondary infertility , pregnancy and infant loss , life-threatening genetic conditions, and unexplained infertility. 

Our hope (and theirs) is that through hearing their stories, you will find the hope, courage, inspiration, and comfort to achieve your own family-building dreams, knowing that you are never alone on this challenging path to parenthood.

IVF Success After Cancer Stories 

While treatments such as chemotherapy can be life-saving for those facing cancer, they can unfortunately also damage a patient's future fertility potential. The following couples share their experiences with family building after beating breast cancer and Hodgkin's lymphoma. 

Meet Ross & Jackie

The story of how one couple become parents after cancer treatment, with the help of fertility preservation and IVF. 

Meet Erin & Matt

After receiving a breast cancer diagnosis and undergoing IVF before chemo, a survivor shares her journey to motherhood.

Egg Donor IVF Success Stories

Hopeful parents who pursue IVF with donor eggs are most often facing fertility challenges like diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), genetic concerns, poor egg quality, and unexplained infertility. Get a glimpse at what this process is like through the following honest accounts.

Meet Rebecca & Steve

After a diagnosis of unexplained infertility, two thankful parents share how they made the difficult decision to use an egg donor.

Meet Eva & Bryan*

*Patients have requested to remain anonymous

Despite many years of trying to conceive and a diagnosis of diminished ovarian reserve, the decision to pursue IVF with the help of an egg donor was an incredibly difficult one for Eva. She shares what led up to her diagnosis and the emotional process of releasing a genetic connection with her children in order to build the family she dreamt of for so long.

Unexplained Infertility IVF Success Stories

One of the most frustrating diagnoses for both patients and doctors is "unexplained infertility," a term assigned to those who are unable to achieve pregnancy without a discernible cause. Around 15-30% of hopeful parents trying to conceive receive this diagnosis, which often leads to IVF treatment.

Meet Stephanie 

After years of TTC and turning 36, Stephanie sought guidance from a fertility doctor and was diagnosed with unexplained infertility. This led to IVF treatment and a successful embryo transfer that resulted in twins!

Meet Christa & Aland 

On June 7, 2021, Christa and Aland had their first frozen embryo transfer. A couple weeks later, they were shocked when they discovered they were having identical twin girls.   

LGBTQ+ IVF Success Stories

There are so many different paths to parenthood, including IUI , IVF , surrogacy , adoption, and using an egg, sperm, or embryo donor .

At Illume Fertility, we are proud to offer family-building options for all. With the support of resources like our Gay Parents To Be program and an expert third party reproduction team, we are able to provide next-level care for LGBTQ+ patients pursuing parenthood.

Meet Tim & Steve

A gay couple shares how they met, when they decided to have kids, and what their two IVF and surrogacy journeys were like.

Meet Diana & Di

A PCOS warrior shares her and her partner's long journey through fertility testing, finding a donor, and IVF treatment.

Meet Taylor & Holly

Learn about reciprocal IVF from two moms who navigated the ups and downs of fertility treatment together.

LGBTQ+ Stories Collection

Explore our full library of family-building journeys through surrogacy, adoption, fertility treatment, and more.

PCOS & Endometriosis IVF Success Stories

Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis often lead to fertility issues, but that doesn't mean you won't be able to find success with proper treatment.

Around 30-50% of people with endometriosis struggle to conceive and up to 70-80% of anovulatory infertility cases are caused by PCOS. The following Illume patients share how they were able to overcome these challenges using IVF to grow their families.

Meet Nicole & Steven

High school sweethearts share how they discovered Nicole's endometriosis diagnosis and what it took to meet their baby boy.

Meet Katie & Anthony

In this 3-part series, a PCOS patient opens up about her long and difficult journey to becoming a mother.

Meet Megan & Jeff

After 2.5 years of fertility struggles and disappointments, Megan and Jeff turned to IVF - and ended up with twins! 

Meet Andrea & Ralph

A couple shares their emotional journey through a PCOS diagnosis, three failed IUI cycles, and fighting to become parents.

Meet Virginia & Joe

In this story, PCOS patient Virginia shares her and her husband Joe's experience at Illume Fertility on their first embryo transfer day.

Male Factor Infertility IVF Success Stories

When most people think about infertility, they assume the issue lies with the female partner. However, in around 40% of cases, male factor infertility is to blame.  

Meet Sarah & Chris

After multiple pregnancy losses, egg retrievals, and embryo transfers, a couple shares what got them through it all.

Meet Kristen & Jeff

PCOS and male factor infertility led this couple to IVF treatment after more than two years of trying to conceive a baby.

Meet Danielle & Rob

After struggling to conceive and discovering male factor fertility issues, they turned to ICSI and IVF, which brought a huge surprise.

Single Mom by Choice IVF Success Stories

Thanks to processes like IVF and donor conception, more women are able to realize their dreams of becoming a mother - even without a partner. 

Meet Kaitlyn

A single mom shares why she chose to have a baby without a partner -with the help of IVF and donor sperm. 

Meet Alison

After an unexpected divorce, Alison knew she wanted to give her son a sibling, so she decided to do it on her own.

Is IVF right for you?

Learn how much IVF costs, how long the process takes, and how this treatment method can help make your dreams come true.

IVF for Genetic Conditions Success Stories

In some cases, IVF isn't used to combat infertility, but instead to help parents avoid passing on life-threatening heritable conditions to their future children. In the following stories, three courageous mothers share their experiences with genetic disorders and infant loss.

Meet Alyson & Scott

After a shocking genetic discovery, Alyson and her husband were advised to move straight to IVF treatment.

Meet Nicole

A mom with cystic fibrosis shares her journey through IVF, twin pregnancy, heartbreaking loss and finding light on the other side.

After losing her infant son to Alper's Disease, Anna sought genetic counseling and IVF to help protect her future children.

Tubal Factor Infertility IVF Success Stories

Tubal factor infertility accounts for about 25-30% of all cases of infertility, and occurs when a blockage in the fallopian tubes will not allow the egg and sperm to meet. The following families share how IVF helped them overcome this frustrating obstacle to become parents.

Meet Azana & Delvin

After a previous ectopic pregnancy and removal of one fallopian tube, this couple turned to IVF for help conceiving their son, Levi. 

Meet Shiraine & Barry

When fertility testing revealed 34-year old Shiraine's fallopian tubes were damaged, the couple moved quickly into an IVF cycle.

You Deserve the Family of Your Dreams

Whether you're seeking inspiration as you prepare for an upcoming IVF cycle, in need of hope after an unsuccessful embryo transfer, or simply looking for different perspectives as you explore your fertility options, the families featured above offer a transparent account of the challenges - and the joys - that can come from pursuing IVF.

Want to learn more about IVF treatment or speak with a fertility expert? Reach out to our team today or download our Step-by-Step Guide to IVF Treatment . We wish you the best of luck on your family-building journey!

Sierra Dehmler

Sierra Dehmler is Illume Fertility’s Content Marketing Manager - and also a fertility patient herself. Combining empathy gained on her personal journey with her professional experience in marketing and content creation, she aims to empower and support other fertility patients by demystifying the fertility treatment process.

Talk to An IVF Expert Today

Get honest answers to your IVF questions from a team of board-certified reproductive endocrinologists.

More Fertility Resources

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Chapter 13 – The IVF Patient Journey of the Future

Abstract Since IVF led to the first successful birth over 40 years ago, it has transformed from a medical innovation focused on women with tubal occlusion to a far broader infertility and, in many instances, noninfertility therapy. The field of reproductive medicine today is nothing like what it was when it first started. As with many new technologies, the early decades were spent honing the craft, adapting laboratory and clinical innovations from animal experimentation to one that has provided a revolution in the development of complex hormonal treatments and laboratory practices (Chapters 2 and 3), including extended culture, ICSI, vitrification, and oocyte cryopreservation (Chapters 5 and 10). Chapter 13 The IVF Patient Journey of the Future Thomas L Toth and Angela Q Leung Since IVF led to the first successful birth over 40 years ago, it has transformed from a medical innovation focused on women with tubal occlusion to a far broader infertility and, in many instances, noninfertility therapy. The field of reproductive medicine today is nothing like what it was when it first started. As with many new technologies, the early decades were spent honing the craft, adapting laboratory and clinical innovations from animal experimentation to one that has provided a revolution in the development of complex hormonal treatments and laboratory practices ( Chapters 2 and 3 ), including extended culture, ICSI, vitrification, and oocyte cryopreservation ( Chapters 5 and 10 ). During that time, effort was concentrated on understanding and perfecting the technology being offered to patients. That time of great innovation led to increasing efficacy and safety of treatments, wider dissemination of information, proliferation of care, and the use of technology and integrated multidisciplinary teams to offer PCC. While exciting clinical and technological advancements in ART are still being made today, the field is entering a new phase. Personalized treatment and the patients’ experience of their journey to parenthood will be the major emphasis in coming decades. The overarching goal will be the delivery of one healthy child at a time whose adulthood will not be impacted by their parents’ fertility issues or genetic risks. As this medical field burgeons into an international community comprising medical and mental-health care providers, scientists, innovators, marketers, activists, and many more, the next 40 years will be a time of exciting growth, innovation, and transformation. The patient’s experience of fertility care will be more personalized, convenient, and holistic. Seeing a fertility specialist will become a natural and routine part of the family planning process, with the ultimate goal of safely building healthy families. An ART Cycle of the Future We want to summarize what we envision the patient experience will look like in the not-so-distant future: Emma is a young aspiring astronaut who dreams of being on the next shuttle into space. She is 25 years old, single, and plans to have children at a later age. During her pretraining physical and mental health assessment, the doctor reminds her of the option of FP, since Emma might be in space for an extended period with uncertain effects on her fertility. She thinks this is a great idea and asks friends on social media for clinic recommendations. She scrolls through reviews online and realizes that convenience, accessibility, and the “patient experience” are the hallmark characteristics that she is looking for. She finds “The Fertility Center” and reviews their website. She is excited to see that all relevant information about FP and the process she would have to go through is transparent and clearly stated on the website. Although this clinic is mainly based in the metropolitan city 100 miles away, they have easy telecommunication options that make it the most convenient choice for Emma. She goes to the “New Patient” section and fills out her information on a secure online form. She immediately sees the schedule of availability for new patient appointments and picks a date and time that works for her. After registering, she receives a confirmation email and directions to download a secure app on her phone on which her profile, appointments, medical results, and treatment instructions can all be communicated. Emma is excited that this clinic is so convenient, user-friendly, and discreet, and that she does not have to rely only on telephone calls for information. Prior to her appointment, she receives a kit to perform at-home fertility testing as deemed appropriate by her personalized fertility evaluation algorithm. The kit contains a device that plugs into her smartphone, which instantly provides laboratory results and uploads them to the clinic’s app. A painless finger stick or salivary sample is all that is required for accurate testing, and the device can even perform a semen analysis. She will continue to use this device for cycle monitoring if she proceeds with egg freezing. On the day of her appointment, Emma logs into her smartphone app to attend the teleconference appointment with her fertility team. She meets her doctor as well as the administrative assistant, nurse, financial counselor, and wellness coach. The fertility panel test results, which were completed prior to her appointment, are available for review and, as a team, they discuss her fertility goals and options. Using an AI-generated algorithm, her history and initial tests help formulate a personalized treatment plan to optimize her chance of success. Her treatment plan includes not only the medical aspects necessary to achieve her egg freezing goal but also nutrition, exercise, and mental-health counseling to promote overall wellness. By the end of the appointment, Emma has a clear understanding of her next steps with written instructions on how to proceed outlined in her app. Emma follows her personalized treatment algorithm, which continually provides the best personalized pathway, protocol, and medication dosing for her cycle. Prior to starting, her financial counselor discusses the best strategy to optimize her financial resources. She also receives teleconference teaching on how and when to take the cycle medications and how to perform home monitoring. These videos are recorded and stored in her app, which she can refer to anytime she has questions. Emma is so thankful that the stimulation medications are oral; she had heard that, in the past, patients had to give themselves injections. Emma is sent a home ultrasound monitoring device and instructed on how to use it properly. On the days when she is instructed via the app to do monitoring, she performs a home ultrasound and her follicle growth data is uploaded directly to her chart in the electronic medical record. She also performs a finger stick blood test at home with the smartphone device that analyzes a droplet of blood. All hormone testing is remote, and her ultrasound and bloodwork results are uploaded via the app directly to the clinic. Based on her results, she receives a text via the app from her care team who give her instructions regarding her medications. Emma finds this system extremely easy and convenient to navigate, especially given that the clinic’s physical location is so far away. In the past, patients had to travel almost every day during their cycle to a clinic site for traditional phlebotomy and ultrasound. Emma cannot imagine the inconvenience and cost this would incur to many people – no wonder so few people accessed fertility services in the past. Nowadays, almost everyone Emma knows has had at least a consultation regarding fertility planning. An increasingly broader range of couples and single people are routinely utilizing fertility services with improved accessibility of reproductive clinics in the United States and the world. The day of her egg retrieval arrives and is performed at a convenient clinic location of her choosing. The process is painless and no longer requires traditional anesthesia, as it had in the past. Advances in other fields of medicine also aid fertility treatment and newly developed oral medication allows the retrieval procedure to be performed painlessly. As part of her holistic wellness care, she also receives acupuncture and massage services that day to help alleviate stress. Her gametes are processed using specific tagging systems linked to Emma’s personal identification data. The eggs that are retrieved are processed by an embryologist using a microfluidic device, which prepares the eggs for fertilization or freezing. In Emma’s case, her eggs are cryopreserved by the automated system and transferred to a secure storage facility where they will remain until Emma has need of them. All her eggs have a specific tag, which links them to her patient profile and tracks their location, temperature, and gas parameters in the lab, thus ensuring identification. Via this electronic tagging, Emma is also able to track her eggs herself on her smartphone app, which provides her reassurance that they are safe. All data are maintained using block chain technology, which allows her to access information from any location. Ten years later, Emma has met the love of her life, Liam, and they are ready to start building a family. Incidentally, Liam also froze his sperm at a younger age when his personalized genetic risk assessment determined a high risk of testicular cancer. Together, they return to the clinic where Emma had her eggs frozen to discuss their options for conception. Even though they now live in the city where the clinic is located, they continue to use the teleconferencing option as it is more convenient for their busy schedules. However, Emma has heard from her friends who have visited the clinic that it does not look like a traditional doctor’s office at all, but more like a nice salon or spa. Many clinics are recognizing that patients often do not want to be in an overly medicalized setting, which has led to the delinking of fertility centers from hospital settings, and a change in the aesthetic of the physical spaces. This makes the entire process more comfortable and feel more “natural,” especially since family planning is such an integral part of many people’s lives. Emma and Liam undergo home fertility testing using a similar device Emma had used when freezing her eggs. However, this time, no blood or saliva sample is even needed – the device simply scans their skin to produce instantaneous results. They are amazed at how far technology has advanced in 10 short years. After meeting with their fertility team – the same team that helped Emma many years ago – they are ready to tackle the next steps as outlined by their personalized treatment algorithm. They opt to use their frozen gametes to create embryos for transfer. While waiting for her treatment to begin, Emma and Liam feel increasingly anxious about their ability to conceive and upcoming treatment. Their team checks in at regular intervals and discusses their desires, goals, and fears, and how they may impact the treatment. Their wellness coach also shows them both physical and mental exercises to perform to help with anxiety. They appreciate that now there is an increased understanding among medical professionals that the mind and body are intricately linked and, especially in stressful situations such as family building, the care of the whole person is paramount. Many more clinics now employ or partner with psychologists, social workers, nutritionists, acupuncturists, and massage therapists. Mental health and wellness are an integral part of fertility care. Emma and Liam feel grateful for the empathy shown by the clinic staff, as well as the personalized and integrated care they have received. With the support of their team, they feel ready to tackle the next steps. Emma’s frozen eggs and Liam’s frozen sperm are retrieved from the robotic storage facility and are processed using an automated device that selects the most viable sperm for insemination. The process of fertilization, embryo culture, and embryo assessment are performed within an automated microfluidic platform, which eliminates environmental exposure and human error. All the embryos have a specific tag, which allows Emma and Liam to track the progress of the embryos. This provides them reassurance and also helps them feel connected to the growth of their early embryos. Noninvasive preimplantation genetic and viability marker testing is performed and, while results are pending, the embryos are cryopreserved in an automated machine that stores the embryos. The genetic testing that is performed can comprehensively examine the genome for each embryo and determine the highest implantation potential and healthiest offspring. In combination with the metabolic and morphologic data collected through time-lapse imaging, an AI program amasses and analyzes all the data to rank the embryos for transfer. Based on Emma’s testing, her personalized treatment algorithm has determined the optimal receptive day for an ET. A single embryo is retrieved according to its ranked viability potential from the automated system and thawed. The transfer goes well and, while Emma is enduring the difficult wait for her pregnancy test, her team has planned a regimen to assist with healthy dietary choices, and physical and mental exercises. Happily, Emma finds out that she is pregnant! After her confirmatory first trimester ultrasound, she is introduced to an obstetrician who works closely with her fertility team. Throughout her pregnancy, she continues to receive wellness support, including nutrition and exercise counseling, mental health exercises, and parenting classes. Emma also joins an online support community and shares her journey with fertility treatment with others. She eventually delivers a healthy newborn. Emma and Liam truly feel that their success was a team effort, spearheaded by people who cared about both their physical and emotional journey through family building. They feel confident that they can reach their goal of three children with the help of their team. In fact, Emma plans to refer her single younger sister to them to discuss her desires about future fertility. After all, fertility care is not just about treating people who have difficulty conceiving – it is about providing the framework for family building so that it is a natural and routine part of a lifelong journey.

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Related posts:

• Chapter 1 – Access to Infertility Care
• Chapter 7 – Psychological Counseling: Ethical Challenges of the Future
• Chapter 4 – ART Monitoring: An End to Frequent Clinic Visits and Needle Sticks?
• Chapter 8 – Using Technology to Enhance Communication in Medically Assisted Reproductive Care

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Becoming a Life IVF Center Patient Consultation & Evaluation

Getting Started with Life IVF Center

Deciding on a clinic to partner with for your fertility journey can be complex and confusing for many, so we’ve designed a straightforward process for you to learn more about your own fertility needs and how our program can help with a few simple steps.

The Complimentary Consultation

Though optional, a popular first step for many patients is to schedule a Complimentary Consultation (CC). After scheduling with our easy online tool, a provider will call you by phone during your arranged time window.

The Complimentary Consultation is a quick, no-cost 10-15 minute call with a provider to ask questions regarding your case, suitability for treatment, or Life IVF Center. It can be helpful to get to know our program and ease yourself into starting treatment.

Complimentary Consultation

While providers will do whatever they can to answer questions during the call, they will not be able to provide advice around treatment without more detailed medical history and data, which is where the next step begins:

About The Fertility Evaluation

The Fertility Evaluation (FE) is the gateway to beginning treatment, and many patients start directly at this step. To prepare, you will need to provide our team with a complete medical history as well as recent lab work and ultrasounds that help explain your fertility situation. Without these, our team won’t have enough information to create the best plan for you!

To complete your medical history, you’ll access our Patient Portal where you can enter information, sign forms, and communicate with our team if you continue treatment. Patients who have done fertility testing elsewhere may have the necessary bloodwork (E2, FSH) and ultrasound info, otherwise they can be performed on-site at Life IVF. If you don’t plan to visit us for your FE, you can perform the tests elsewhere and submit the results.

During the actual Fertility Evaluation, a provider will go through your medical history with you, confirm key items, and ask for additional information where necessary. Then, they will explain the treatment process suited to your goals and offer you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have. Finally, you’ll speak to a physician from our team to recommend an approach for your case and round out your evaluation.

The New Patient Orientation

The New Patient Orientation at Life IVF Center is a session with one of our experienced Patient Coordinators that introduces patients to the overall fertility treatment process. The orientation covers the timeline for treatment, including the diagnostic tests and screening required before treatment can begin.

Patients are informed about the pricing and service options available to them. Overall, the orientation provides patients with a clear understanding of the fertility treatment process, allowing them to make informed decisions and feel supported throughout their journey to parenthood.

The Pre-IVF Process

These are additional items to complete prior to IVF Treatment depending on patient concerns, previous medical history, and individual / family risk factors. Check out our section on Pre-IVF to learn more.

Don’t just take our word for it.

What patients are saying

Dr. After being diagnosed with PCOS at a young age, I was worried about my fertility. Once my husband and I began to try, my fears were confirmed. After 3 failed IUIs at a different facility in which I just felt like a number, I learned about LIFE IVF Center. After 1 retrieval and my first FET, I got my positive pregnancy test. Fast forward, and the little embryo that could is now my almost 3 month old little love.

S.J. IVF Patient California, USA

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Life IVF Center Accessibility Statement

Accessibility Statement

• lifeivfcenter.com
• April 29, 2024

Compliance status

We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience, regardless of circumstance and ability.

To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level. These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.

This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.

Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML, adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.

If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email

Screen-reader and keyboard navigation

Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements, alongside console screenshots of code examples:

Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website. In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels; descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups), and others. Additionally, the background process scans all of the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology. To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on as soon as they enter the website.

These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.

Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside of it.

Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.

Disability profiles supported in our website

• Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
• Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
• Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
• ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
• Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
• Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.

Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments

• Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
• Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over 7 different coloring options.
• Animations – epileptic users can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
• Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
• Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
• Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
• Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.

Browser and assistive technology compatibility

We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers), both for Windows and for MAC users.

Notes, comments, and feedback

Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs, there may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to

IVF Patient Education

Get smarter about the world of fertility

What do our courses involve

Unbiased interactive content written by fertility physicians

Expert unbiased content

Interactive learning, certificates of completion, 1. getting started – what is infertility familiarize yourself with the key terms and definitions.

1.1 What is infertility

1.2 The female reproductive system 1.3 The fertilization process (with video) 1.4 IVF and why it’s needed

2. Preparing for infertility treatment Get ready for the treatment journey

2.1 Preparation for IVF treatment 2.2 How IVF works (with video) 2.3 Recommended pre-IVF screenings 2.4 Cancer risk theory 2.5 Emotional support

3. The genetic consultation Understand the genetic tests

3.1 Human genetics 3.2 Why have a genetic consultation 3.3 The genetic tests (with video) 3.4 Test procedures & results

4. Your first visit to the IVF clinic Prepare for your first clinic appointment

4.1 What to bring 4.2 Questions to ask 4.3 What to expect

5. Understanding hormonal treatments Familiarize yourself with the main drugs

5.1 The reason for hormonal treatment 5.2 The drugs given during hormonal treatment 5.3 Medication complications and side effects

6. The treatment protocols Understand the follow-up stages and possible side effects

6.1 IVF treatment protocol options 6.2 Treatment & follow-up stages 6.3 Complications due to ovarian response to treatment 6.4 Ovarian torsion

7. The sperm collection procedures The different procedures for sperm collection

7.1 From a male partner 7.2 Sperm at the IVF lab 7.3 Cryopreserved or from a sperm bank

8. Going through the egg aspiration procedure Understand the procedure in-depth

8.1 Before egg aspiration 8.2 During egg aspiration  8.3 After egg aspiration   8.4 Potential side effects of egg aspiration  

9. The different immediate steps after egg aspiration Prepare for the next steps after the eggs are aspirated

9.1 Immediate procedure after egg collection

9.2 Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection – ICSI (with video) 9.3 Incubation of fertilized eggs & embryo growth (with video) 9.4 Hatching of the embryo leaving the Zona Pellucida 9.5 Reasons for cryopreservation 9.6 The freezing and thawing process (with video)

10. The embryo transfer procedure Get ready with key information ahead of time

10.1 How to prepare for the procedure 10.2 How many embryos to transfer 10.3 The embryo transfer procedure (with video)

10.4 Possible complications after embryo transfer

10.5 Multiple pregnancy

11. Post embryo-transfer What happens after the embryo transfer procedure

11.1 After the procedure 11.2 Additional considerations

12. The Luteal phase Understand the support provided during the luteal phase

12.1 Luteal support

13. Checking for pregnancy The final stage of the treatment cycle

13.1 Checking for pregnancy 13.2 Dealing with treatment failure 13.3 Ectopic pregnancy 13.4 Miscarriage 13.5 Birth defects

14. Emotional Support Throughout the IVF Process

14.1 Typical responses

14.2 The 2-week wait

14.3 What is stress?

14.4 How does stress impact fertility?

14.5 Practical tips for women

14.6 Practical tips for partners

14.7 Phases & feelings

14.7 Emotional rollercoaster

Our courses

1. Introduction to Infertility

2. Preparing For Infertility Treatment

3. The Genetic Consultation

4. Your First Visit To The IVF Clinic

5. Understanding Hormonal Treatments

• About Nashville Fertility Center
• Become an Egg Donor
• New Patients
• Female Infertility

Kimberly’s IVF Story: A Joyful Ending to a Long Fertility Journey

Beginning a long fertility journey.

After two and a half years of trying, they realized that they needed additional support and tried two IUI cycles, or intrauterine insemination, under the care of Kimberly’s gynecologist. Unfortunately, both tries were unsuccessful. The next step was visiting our Nashville fertility clinic. As Kimberly says, “It was scary thinking about doing IVF because all I knew about it was what I’d seen in movies and on television.”

Starting IVF at Nashville Fertility Center

The cycle culminated in the retrieval of 16 eggs, which Kimberly remembers as being a low number. She’d been following the fertility blogs of various women, some of which had over 30 eggs retrieved.

“The experience of waiting to hear how many of our fertilized eggs were healthy was very nerve-wracking,” Kimberly said. However, they soon received the good news that 12 embryos were viable. They were overjoyed and relieved to the point of tears.

Additional testing to uncover the root fertility challenges

A few months later they did a frozen cycle. This time, Kimberly abstained from at-home pregnancy tests, but had a feeling she wasn’t pregnant. Our Nashville fertility clinic soon confirmed this. “I started thinking about going the adoption route, but after meeting with Dr. Hill and our nurse, we determined that I needed more tests. Everything appeared to be fine, but something was obviously preventing pregnancy,” Kimberly said.

That’s when they decided to try an ERA, or endometrial receptivity analysis, which tests the receptivity of the uterine lining. For this test, Kimberly had to do a mock IVF cycle . However, instead of retrieving eggs, they biopsied a portion of her uterine lining at the end of the cycle. The first test determined that she was pre-receptive, meaning that they needed to repeat the test. They finally learned that Kimberly likely needed an extra day on progesterone before the embryo transfer.

Kimberly had an easy twin pregnancy, free of complications. In May 2018, she gave birth to her little girl Monroe and little boy Cade. Both babies are healthy and thriving.

Guidance for other hopeful parents

“You have to have a support system. My husband was my biggest support system. More than anyone, he knew how I was feeling because he was also going through it. I told my family, but I don’t think they fully understood because they weren’t experiencing it first hand,” Kimberly said.

She also recommends joining IVF support groups on Facebook, saying that they were incredibly beneficial during her fertility journey, as the women could relate to what she was going through.

When asked about her experience with our team, Kimberly said, “I could always tell that the team at Nashville Fertility Center cared and weren’t going to give up on me. They were determined to figure out what was going on and were incredibly encouraging.”

Contact us for more information about the leading-edge IVF services at our Nashville fertility clinic.

• George Hill, MD
• Glenn Weitzman, MD
• Abby Eblen, MD
• Kristin Van Heertum, MD
• Meghan Smith, MD
• Meredith Humphreys, MD
• Martha Goodyear, APN
• Kelley Whitaker, APN
• Andrea Yates, APN
• Board Certified Fertility Specialists
• “Fertility Docs Uncensored” Podcast
• Meet Our Clinical Team
• Find a Tennessee Fertility Center
• Nashville IVF and Fertility Center
• Murfreesboro Fertility Center
• Franklin Fertility Center
• Clarksville Fertility Center
• Fertility Treatment Success Rates
• Leave a Doctor Review
• Patient Comments
• Infertility Awareness
• Submit Your Fertility Story
• Report the Delivery of Your Baby
• Ovation Fertility Certified Laboratory
• Fertility Research Studies
• Referring Physicians
• Contact NFC
• Roe v. Wade
• COVID-19 Update

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Nashville Fertility Center

(615) 321-4740

Nashville Fertility proudly serving : Bartlett, Brentwood , Bristol, Chattanooga, Clarksville, Cleveland, Collierville, Columbia, Cookeville, East Ridge, Farragut, Franklin , Gallatin, Germantown, Hendersonville, Jackson, Johnson City, Kingsport, Knoxville, La Vergne, Lebanon, Maryville, Memphis, Morristown, Mount Juliet, Murfreesboro, Nashville, Oak Ridge, Shelbyville, Smyrna, Spring Hill , Tullahoma.

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Patient Testimonials

A selection of genuine reviews from our patients.

Having tried for over a year to get pregnant naturally, I was diagnosed with low ovarian reserve. I was 43, so I thought my best chance was to go for the egg donor option. After doing lots of research, I found the Reprofit clinic to be a leader in their field, and with good success rates for egg donor treatment. I wanted to use Becky and Ben’s service to remove as much stress as possible from the process, and they did exactly that. They sorted out all the admin, communicating every step of the way. Thanks to them, things happened really quickly. We had such a lovely time in Brno, spurred on by encouraging messages and support from Becky. The treatment worked first time and I am now a proud mum to a 2 week old boy. Thanks Ben and Becky!

Louise and Paul

After 3 years of trying for our second baby, we felt it would never happen until I was recommended both the Reprofit clinic and Becky and Ben to assist us with our trip. They were really supportive. We were able to ask any questions and were guided through the process with useful emails and telephone calls during each stage. Brno was also a pleasant place to stay and we did manage to have a break whilst out there for the 10 days, It didn’t work the first time, but we returned in October 2021 and couldn’t believe it when we had a positive test result! We welcomed the most beautiful baby daughter in July and cannot thank Becky, Ben and Reprofit enough. Our family is complete.

Ellie and Russ

After eight years of trying to conceive both naturally and having two cycles of IVF in the UK with no positive pregnancy, we found Your IVF Journey and read all about Becky & Ben’s own experience with IVF. We made the call and knew this was the right choice for us and decided to go for another cycle but this time in the Czech Republic. Everything was organised for us, from completing forms and liaising with the clinic in Brno, arranging our fertility drugs and keeping in touch with us every step of the way. Following the first ICSI treatment, I had my very first ever positive pregnancy test. We are now sat here with our amazing, precious little girl who will turn 2 years of age in just a few days time. Thanks so much to Becky & Ben for helping us with our IVF journey, as our wish finally came true.

Dee and Matthew

My husband had a failed vasectomy reversal and I had very poor egg quality so we knew IVF was the only option. Using Your IVF Journey was the best decision we ever made. Becky was there for us from the very beginning and made what may seem like a daunting experience (going abroad for IVF) very easy and stress free. IVF in the UK would have cost us £11,000, caused more stress (because we would have been working at the same time) and lower success rates. The clinic in Brno was outstanding, professional and obviously good at what they do! We are so blessed that our IVF story gave us a beautiful, healthy baby boy, we have Becky and the team at Your IVF Journey to thank for him.

Lorraine and Matt

Burton on Trent

I was 43 when I found Becky and Ben’s website. We had gone through 6 rounds of IVF over 10 years. We felt a renewed sense of hope when we read their story. The communication with Becky and Ben was efficient and very useful from the outset. I travelled to Brno to have some of the preparatory testing done, as it was cheaper and could be carried out easily by the clinic. Before our trip for the embryo transfer, a scan in the UK showed a fibroid. The Reprofit doctor we saw was excellent, suggesting an exploratory HSK to examine the fibroid. He concluded that we could go ahead with ET. We were very impressed by the individual care and understanding of our case. This was definitely not the ‘one size fits all’ approach we had experienced during previous IVF treatments. Two weeks later, we tested and were overjoyed to get a positive pregnancy test! I am now 14 weeks pregnant and we feel blessed to have found Ben and Becky. We are also thankful to the young donor who has helped us to achieve our pregnancy.

Sally and James

Becky was fantastic. The clinic itself was second to none, the staff, the care, the expertise and the efficiency. We had a great holiday in Brno and actually did day trips to Prague and Vienna. Sadly, the fresh IVF cycle did not work the first time, but Becky was on hand and incredibly supportive. She gave us the confidence to try again with a frozen embryo transfer (which has higher success rates). The second time around we relaxed so much more and it felt like a real holiday. The FET worked, and we have now a gorgeous little boy who couldn’t be more perfect. We recommend Your IVF Journey and Reprofit, as they are much cheaper than the UK. Their scientific methods and knowledge seem to be more advanced than UK clinics, and you get a lot of one to one with Becky and Ben. This really helped make the experience a good one for us. ’

Kam and Zahid

Becky and Ben were amazing! They listened carefully to our situation, organised our trip perfectly and were always available and willing to answer our many questions.  This reduced our stress levels massively. The result of our egg donation cycle is our beautiful Ryan. The clinic was really good and everyone was so helpful and positive. We also think the agency fee was very reasonable for the work they did for us. Thank you Ben and Becky, truly we could not have done this without you!

Jessica and Phil

Our stars aligned when we discovered Your IVF Journey. After my third miscarriage, we began to research our options. In the US, egg donation is extremely expensive. I began looking into other options and came across a blog about traveling abroad for infertility treatments. That’s when I found Your IVF Journey and we contacted Becky. That decision changed our lives. We travelled to the Czech Republic in June 2018 for our first round. Unfortunately it was unsuccessful, but we enjoyed a wonderful European vacation together. I went back in November for our last frozen embryo. It worked! We have a beautiful baby boy. He has brought so much love and joy to our family. We couldn’t be happier, and plan to try for baby number 2 this summer. I would highly recommend using Your IVF Journey and Reprofit. We had such a positive experience and we are looking forward to trying again.

Tori and Jeff

Denver, USA

After four years of trying to have a baby naturally, then via IVF with the NHS, my husband and I were about to give up. Emotionally and financially we were at the end of the line. Then we found Becky and Ben online. At 42, I was starting to accept that my dream of becoming a mum was out of reach, but they encouraged me to consider each and every option carefully. By 43, I was pregnant using a donor egg. Our beautiful son is now nearly one. He’s our world. We have no regrets, and we are in the process of trying for a sibling using the same donor via Your IVF Journey. Becky and Ben are knowledgeable and honest. But more than that they are sympathetic and immensely kind during what can be a very emotional and stressful time for any couple. We cannot thank them enough for their help in making our dreams come true.

Harriet and Simon

Using Your IVF Journey made going abroad for our fertility treatment much less daunting than if we had done it on our own. Becky was really helpful and led us step-by-step through the process, making everything very clear. She provided practical details, such as how to access the drugs in the UK with a foreign prescription. The information guide was so useful when we were in Brno, including everything from where to stay and eat to how to purchase tram tickets. As a result our trip felt like a kind of mini-break in a beautiful city, and not the stressful experience I was expecting! They even recommended someone to go to for a massage, which I would highly recommend (I went twice!). The clinic was organised, professional and caring. Again we felt like every step and choice was clearly explained. The cost is so much less than the UK and we couldn’t have asked for better care. We were delighted to welcome our baby girl into the world in November. She is totally adored by us and her big brother. It is mind-blowing to think that without Your IVF Journey she would not be here. I would definitely recommend this clinic and Your IVF Journey to anyone considering IVF treatment.

Marcia and Patrick

We had a little girl on Sunday: Katie, 6 lbs 1, perfect and completely beautiful. We didn’t want to jinx the process by thanking you too early. To express the gratitude we both feel for first finding you and the fact you publicise this process and help so many couples is hard to put down. We have looked at each other and her and have said over and over: imagine if we had not tried that last time when most if not all hope had gone. So it’s a perfect end with a perfect beautiful girl, who already has my four sisters and Andrea’s six brothers eating out of the palm of her hand. So thank you endlessly.

Andrea and Mark

Your IVF Journey were amazing! They made the process of going abroad for treatment so easy and not at all intimidating. Before we contacted them we weren’t sure whether to go abroad or not, and were a little nervous about how to go about sorting everything. Becky and Ben took all the hassle out for us. They made the process so smooth and stress-free, and it was so much cheaper! They were always on hand to answer any questions and provide reassurance. It’s such a personal service, which is what you want when you are going through something like fertility treatment. I can’t recommend them enough and would definitely use them again. It was such a great clinic – we felt so well cared for. Brno is a wonderful city and we will definitely be going back with our little one in the future. Thank you for everything Becky and Ben – we are so grateful and couldn’t have done it all without your wonderful support.

Lisa and Rob

The reassurance and seamless service you gave really was so supportive. I could not have organised everything myself and been confident about it. Going abroad for medical treatment is a daunting prospect and when I look back I can’t quite believe I was brave enough! I think this is largely due to having a friendly voice at the end of the phone/email guiding us through each step of the way. We could not be more thankful for your support. You offer a very valued, much needed service and I would not hesitate to recommend you to others who may need you.

Sam and Paul

Bournemouth

Following the initial contact made with Ben and Becky we knew we finally felt ready and supported to take the journey of trying IVF abroad. Initially very apprehensive we were almost immediately reassured that this would be a professional yet friendly and personal experience. The ongoing communication was excellent, as was the care received. We are forever grateful to Your IVF journey and extremely proud of our beautiful baby boy.

Leanne and John

After trying IVF without no success in the UK, and being very disappointed with the service received from the local hospital as a private patient, we decided to carry out some research into IVF abroad. We read up on the different countries and visited the Fertility Show in London and from there made up our minds that the Czech Republic was where we wanted treatment. After further research we came across Your IVF Journey and the lovely Becky. Becky was amazing throughout our whole journey. She was a fantastic support and I felt like she was holding my hand and was always with me and my husband. We now have a beautiful 7 month old little boy who we both adore and is our world. We really could not have done this without Your IVF Journey and Becky’s support.

Carol and Andrew

I was very nervous as I picked up the phone to speak to Becky and Ben, but I really needn’t have been. Ben immediately put me at ease and assured me I definitely wasn’t too old at 43! We found their help and step by step instructions invaluable. Becky was always prompt with her replies. It made our journey to Reprofit go smoothly. We never thought we would be parents, but now we are the proud mum and dad of eight-week-old twin girls. We can’t thank Becky, Ben and the clinic enough.

Anna and Guy

A huge thank you to Becky and Ben at Your IVF Journey.  They made the whole process of going abroad to undergo IVF treatment calm and relaxed. I think if we had had to organise everything ourselves it could have been quite daunting, particularly as we have already been through such a tough time trying to conceive. My initial phone conversation was with Ben, who was very reassuring and kind. Becky was quick to respond to all my questions and provided very clear information throughout the whole process. Brno is a really beautiful city and we unexpectedly ended up having a very relaxing holiday there. The staff at the clinic were extremely professional and reassuring and we felt like we were in safe hands. Two weeks on our return I was pregnant and we are now proud parents to our beautiful baby boy. Thanks so much again!

Saskia and Chris

We were recommended to Becky and Ben via a friend. From the very first phone call they put our minds at ease and made the whole journey totally smooth and painless, explaining every part of the process clearly and easily. Whenever we had questions or needed a chat about the process they were always at the end of the phone offering support, and they always did this in a very professional manner. We also had lots of contact via email when we were in Brno during the process and felt very supported. We never would have be able to manage the process on our own, the service they offer is really amazing and now we are lucky to have had a baby girl through the clinic. Thank you Becky and Ben for helping us make our dream to become parents happen.

Polly and Stephen

We are looking at our gorgeous 5 month old daughter and still can’t quite believe she is here. Cannot recommend Becky, Ben and the clinic enough. After numerous miscarriages, a final shot at IVF seemed our only option and we picked this clinic because of the testimonials on the website and the very short waiting time. And it’s all true – being a nervous person, to say I had IVF abroad just goes to show how effortless the process was with Becky’s help. The clinic was amazing, Brno is a lovely place to visit, and we came home pregnant. What more can you ask for? We will be forever grateful to all involved for our beautiful baby girl.

Emma and Guy

I just wanted to thank you again for helping us on the road to parenthood. Without your help and support there is no way we would have considered IVF abroad, meaning we would never have become parents. You made the whole process easy and any questions/issues we had were answered promptly. The clinic is fantastic and very professional – much better than the Harley Street clinic we used previously. My only regret is not finding you earlier. It would have saved us a lot of heartache, false promises and, of course, money! We are now proud parents to a happy, healthy little boy. He is an absolute pleasure and the apple of our eye. I am in no doubt that this is down to Your IVF Journey’s help, support and commitment to helping us on our journey, so thank you. You never know, we may be back for number 2!

Pattie and Ed

We were in a very upsetting and difficult place when we came across the Your IVF Journey website. After reading about Becky and Ben’s own experiences and others we both knew that this felt like the right path for us. We contacted Becky and Ben the next day and talked to them on the phone. Hearing more about their story was very reassuring and we came away feeling a lot more positive about what we were to embark on. From that point on, it was really helpful to have their guidance through the process. It made it much easier than it otherwise would have been and I am happy to say that we are now loving getting to know our beautiful little daughter!

Christa and David

My husband and I have now had the help of Your IVF Journey twice. The first time was using egg donation. This was a daunting process to start with but I am delighted to say it was successful and we had our beautiful baby girl almost three years ago. We were also fortunate enough to be able to freeze two embryos and had an FET last year. Amazingly this was also successful and our second baby daughter was born earlier this year. We are thankful for our family every day and none of this would have been possible without the help and support of Becky and Ben. I was wary about going abroad for any medical treatment at first but I was completely put at ease. I felt supported and so well looked after during the entire process. I never expected such an attentive service. Also, the clinic in Brno is just as it was described: professional, caring and not at all scary. IVF is not an easy thing to go through and I am so glad that we found the help and support we needed through Your IVF Journey. Thank you so very much from the four of us.

Sian and Pete

All communication were easy and clear throughout the process, and for the fee charged it was well worth the money. The clinic is as good, if not better, than the one we used in the UK. After seven years of trying in the UK with no success, our first attempt through Your IVF Journey was a complete success and we are now proud parents of our beautiful baby boy! Another extremely positive thing was that the full cost for our treatment, hotel stay, flights, agency fee and scans came in at just over half the cost of the treatment we received in the UK. I would, and have, highly recommended Your IVF Journey to everybody in a similar situation to myself. It has changed our lives and I can’t thank them enough.

Tamara and Al

We are hugely grateful for the kindness and support shown to us by Becky and Ben throughout the IVF process; having experienced the emotions and stresses themselves they are in a good position to understand your feelings. The service they offer is professional and prompt and their travel guide will cover every possible question you could have about your trip to Brno! The clinic is efficient and the staff very helpful and friendly. We are currently 32 weeks pregnant and will be forever grateful for this wonderful opportunity although there are no words sufficient to express our gratitude to all who have made this possible for us.

Stacey and Chris

Northampton

When I found this website, I had been looking up information about adoption. I had given up all hope of IVF working. I had tried IVF three times already in this country, once with my own eggs and twice with donor eggs.  I had cried in front of the computer thinking that even adoption seemed to be impossibly hard and that we would not have another child. I’m so glad that Your IVF Journey is out there to let people know about the clinic in the Czech Republic. This clinic has very high success rates and is much cheaper than clinics in the UK. After one treatment I got pregnant and have had a beautiful baby girl. Your IVF Journey helped with liaising with the clinic, finding where to buy the medications needed in this country, information about where to stay during the treatment and transport there. I wouldn’t have had the courage or know-how to go abroad for treatment without them. If I hadn’t chanced upon their website I also wouldn’t have my beautiful baby daughter now. What more can I say? I am over the moon!

Emma and Patrick

We were delighted with Your IVF Journey. They made us feel very relaxed about using a foreign service, helped us with all the administration and travel and the clinic in the lovely town of Brno was clean, professional and friendly. After six rounds of IVF in the UK we were successful on our second attempt at Reprofit and we now have beautiful three-month-old boy/girl twins. Our dreams finally came true!

Robina and Chris

We contacted Becky and Ben at Your IVF Journey after doing lots of research on fertility treatment abroad. We wanted the reassurance and support from people who had gone through the process and knew the clinic. The fact they were UK-based also made us feel at ease. They provided fantastic support and were amazing during the whole process, and afterwards. On the day we flew out to the Czech Republic Becky personally called us to wish us luck. This was a very special touch. We were successful and have our amazing little boy, who is now six months old. We would 100% recommend Your IVF Journey’s service.

Sarah and Jon

Every time I look at my little girl my heart melts a little bit more. If it wasn’t for the help I had from Becky and Ben and the great treatment I received at Reprofit, she wouldn’t be here today. That’s something now at 10 months I really can’t imagine. The process was so easy and straightforward and I’m looking forward to taking her back to Brno one day to show her where she came from. Thanks Ben and Becky for all your help, and the clinic, for making my dream a reality.

Jane and Steven

Just to let you know our beautiful baby boy arrived into the world two weeks ago. We’re in love! Thank you both SO SO much for your support on this journey. Your assistance through this emotional time was invaluable and very much appreciated. You helped our long-awaited dream come true and we are forever grateful and we are already enthusiastically recommending you guys to others in our circumstances. A great big heartfelt thank you.

Martha and Paul

We can’t thank Becky and Ben enough for their amazing and unique help during our journey starting our family through IVF using donor eggs in the Czech Republic. They were such a fantastic support to us and made the whole process so much easier than if we had gone it alone. They were kind, empathetic, encouraging, efficient and extremely professional. We would highly recommend Your IVF Journey to anyone considering IVF abroad. Our gorgeous Alice is now nearly nine months and we are still counting our lucky stars that we made that leap to have her!

Jill and David

Don’t hesitate to use the service offered by Becky and Ben at Your IVF Journey. After a tragic late loss with a clinic in the UK we wanted a change. Becky helped though the tough process that IVF can entail, and made it easy and straightforward. Not only was her care outstanding the clinic was professional, friendly and far outshone the treatment we received in the UK. We fitted our IVF trip around a two-week holiday and came back to do a positive test. Now sat here with our three-month old son, and we couldn’t be more grateful to Becky, Ben and the clinic.

Sarah and Jonathan

After attending the clinic in Brno we had our son last month.  He arrived 5 weeks early, and was very small, but has bounced back wonderfully – a happy, active, and exceedingly loving little boy.  Our lives have been transformed with the greatest gift imaginable and my husband and I are so grateful to you both for your kind and conscientious support throughout our IVF journey. 

Christina and David

Cork, Ireland

It took us five years to finally meet our baby boy. He is everything we dreamed he would be and more, and he justifies all the heartache we had to go through to get there. I stumbled upon Your IVF Journey’s website whilst I was undergoing fertility treatment in the UK, as it was full of clear and sensible advice. When all hope seemed gone, I remembered Becky’s story and turned to Your IVF Journey for a donor egg cycle. The process has been swift and straightforward, the support invaluable and the whole experience with the clinic in Brno more like a holiday than a treatment. Ben and Becky were more than just liaising with the clinic on our behalf, they were literally holding our hand through every step. Having gone through the process themselves made the contact more personal and their advice more relevant. Their service is first class yet good value for money, which is very important when you have already spent thousands on fertility treatments in the UK. Most importantly, what feels like a complicated process becomes manageable. Brno is a lovely city and the clinic felt like a spa in comparison with our own previous NHS experience. We were used to failing, so being successful on our first attempt was a wonderful outcome! Thank you again Becky and Ben, and speak soon as we’ll definitely be back to make number 2! I wish I could say thank you to the anonymous donor too, although thank you doesn’t begin to cover what she has done for us.

Megan and Matt

Rob and I had twin girls last month and we could not be happier. We are so in love with them. Our family that we have wanted for over eight years is now complete. We would like to say a BIG thank you, for all the silly questions that were answered and all the phone calls that I made. Nothing was ever a hassle, you always made us feel relaxed and made sure that this was going to be a great adventure. For that we will always be thankful. We have already recommended three hopeful couples to you. You have both been our guardian angels.

Merivan and Rob

Bristol, UK

I just wanted to let you know that I’m now 31 weeks and things are going well (fingers crossed). I’m pregnant with twins and we are both very excited. I want to say a huge thankyou to you and your husband for helping us. We thank you frequently and really appreciate all your support

Susie and Rich

Chesterfield, UK

Following my heart and my deep desire to have a second child, I knew it was going to be a challenge. But I also knew it was the one challenge I had to rise to. When I contacted Becky and Ben at Your IVF Journey I found that I had a full team standing beside me right through that challenge. They provided knowledge, information and a solid contact point with the clinic, but most of all they provided me with the support and reassurance that I was making the right decision in going down the egg donation path. We were slightly daunted by the thought of going abroad for treatment but we found the clinic to be equally as good as our UK clinic. The whole treatment and time abroad was like a mini city break. We are now delighted to be expecting twins and I have never felt happier to advocate such a wonderful set up as Your IVF Journey. They provided me with the lifeline I needed to move on and create my family and I shall remain eternally grateful.

Niamh and Patrick

Sutton Coldfield, UK

I know that without the accidental discovery of Becky and Ben’s services on the Internet I would almost certainly not be writing this while seven months pregnant. In fact, I am hardly able to believe that I have just written those words! Our first contact with Your IVF Journey was in the summer of 2015 when they replied to my initial email enquiry. I received a phone call within 10 minutes of pressing send. That was just 10 months ago and I am just a few weeks away from delivering our baby boy. We had treatment in the UK initially, which was an expensive, highly impersonal, confusing, lonely and at times quite a hostile experience. The idea of embarking upon treatment abroad was extremely daunting but we needn’t have worried. Everything was made very simple with Becky’s clear, concise instructions. Our treatment protocol could easily have felt complicated but her simplification and breakdown of it, in addition to her regular reminders throughout, made it all so easy. We even received a phone call from her on our first day in Brno, wishing us luck and offering positivity and encouragement. I cannot emphasise enough how I believe all of this support contributed to our success. Staff at the clinic were warm, welcoming and professional. We had a fantastic stay in Brno, making good use of all Your IVF Journey’s recommendations, from the beautiful hotel we stayed in to the brilliant restaurants. We almost forgot why we were there. I am 44 and never believed a baby was a possibility for us. Needless to say, I cannot recommend their services highly enough.

Chantal and Mike

After three unsuccessful IVF attempts using own eggs my husband and I decided to try treatment with donor eggs. The process seemed daunting at first but after discovering Your IVF Journey online everything seemed to get a bit easier. Becky was always there with a prompt reply regardless of how trivial the question. Our treatment protocol was explained to us in great detail and a reminder email was sent at each stage of the process. We felt in safe hands with Becky available at all times. The staff at the clinic were also very helpful and friendly. We enjoyed a lovely week in Brno and even fitted in an overnight stay to Prague. The best part is that I am now 22 weeks pregnant with non-identical twins and we can’t wait to meet them! We would highly recommend the services of Your IVF Journey to other couples in a similar situation.

Siobhan and Peter

We would like to thank Becky, and all the staff at Reprofit, for their support and professionalism. It took seven years, one miscarriage, multiple procedures and two failed rounds of IVF before we found Your IVF Journey’s website. We will always be grateful that we did. We travelled to Brno in December 2015 for a donor embryo, thinking that it might take several attempts. We could not believe our luck when, two weeks later, we got a positive pregnancy test. It truly was a miracle! I am now 19 weeks pregnant and feeling the baby moving inside me, which is the most wondrous thing. We absolutely loved Brno, its people, the city and its fabulous Christmas markets. The clinic was impressive and we could not have been happier with our choice. Best of all was Becky, her support, knowledge and endless patience for my silly questions was above and beyond the call of duty. We will forever be in her debt. I cannot recommend Your IVF Journey enough.

Annie and Harry

Tunbridge Wells, UK

I am delighted to tell you that I gave birth to a beautiful baby boy on Monday.  He is just amazing and we couldn’t be happier! I can’t possibly explain how grateful we are that in our darkest of times as a couple you brought us hope. We could not have taken this journey if it was not for you. Your own experiences made us think things could be possible in a timescale that worked for us. Brno will always be a very special place for us and I think it is amazing that we have been successful on our first attempt. I couldn’t have felt more supported and I felt you really held our hands throughout the process. What you have done for others is wonderful. There are so many couples that are in the same situation and we have certainly told people we know in similar situations to look you up. We ended 2014 thinking we were to have a life without children and we have begun 2016 with our precious bundle. What a turnaround!

Julia and Giles

Dublin, Ireland

I just wanted to let you know about the safe arrival of baby Jack. He arrived on 2nd December at a very healthy 8 lb 4. We are absolutely smitten and over the moon with him and want to thank you and all the team at the clinic for your continued help and support on our journey. Everyone was extremely professional and understanding and we were so impressed. It wasn’t always easy but he is so worth it. He is such a blessing!

Kam and Alex

Solihull, UK

I would like to thank Becky and Ben for all their help and support. I am now in my third trimester and going to be a mum very soon. I am so pleased I got all the help I needed before and during my treatment. We couldn’t have fulfilled our dream to become parents without them. The fee is nothing compared to the happiness we have felt since the day we knew I was pregnant. A great service.

Jen and Peter

I am pleased to let you know that Rachel was born on 8 July weighing 7.1 pounds and she is beautiful. I can’t thank you enough for your support and help on this journey. You were invaluable in making the process of IVF in the Czech Republic seem very smooth and easy. Emails were answered promptly, treatment dates and protocol sent through quickly, with clear instructions, taking away the uncertainty of dealing with a clinic abroad. The clinic itself was very professional and the staff excellent. This was my second round of fertility treatment overseas and without a doubt dealing with your directly made this round far more relaxed. I cannot recommend you enough. The fee was well worth it, given the extra support, help with transport, the travel guides and most importantly getting us fast-tracked. Thank you!

Anna and Calum

Liverpool, UK

Working with Becky and Ben at Your IVF Journey took all the worry of IVF abroad away from us. Emails were answered promptly, any worries were dealt with quickly, instructions and arrangements were clear and the whole process was relaxed and encouraging from beginning to end. The clinic is absolutely excellent and you do really feel as if the staff are genuinely interested in the outcome of the treatment you receive. This was our first IVF treatment, we went straight for the egg donation option which seemed the obvious choice for us. We are delighted we did, as we are now 16 weeks pregnant. We couldn’t recommend Becky, Ben and the clinic highly enough.

Maya and Tom

Aberdeen, UK

We couldn’t have been more pleased with our decision to go with Your IVF Journey for our donor-egg IVF. From the very beginning Becky and Ben made what could have been a difficult process remarkably simple. Knowing Your IVF Journey had done all the homework and research for us meant we could just trust them to tell us what to do and where to go at each step of the process. The agency fee is well worth the money for what you get in return: priority booking, discounts on hotels, honest travel guides and someone to hand-hold you through the process. If this is your first time going abroad, don’t be anxious. Our experience of the Czech clinic was so much better than our experiences in the UK and the cost was significantly less. And the best bit… we were successful in falling pregnant.

Sasha and Andrew

We are 30 weeks pregnant with non-identical twins! Everything is going wonderfully well, although I do look like a small planet! We are thrilled to bits and have been recommending your service to anyone who will listen. Thank you for all the help you gave us. Especially the encouragement after my follicle-tracking scan just before we were due to fly, which showed I only had two follicles. I remember feeling at that point that it was all over. But you were so lovely and we went for it following a phone call from Ben, who was incredibly calm and positive. Those two little follicles have gone on to grow into our two babies and they will be with us very soon. We are so happy and excited. Words can never express how grateful we are and how lucky we feel.

Hanna and Michael

We would have found trying to arrange matters in another country very difficult without Your IVF Journey. Their fees were a small portion of our total expenses and represent excellent value for money, as the advice and direction we received proved so useful. Unfortunately nothing came from our first attempt, but Your IVF Journey continued to support us at no extra cost when we tried a second time, after which we are fortunate enough to have two lovely sons. Becky and Ben were a great help every step of the way and we highly recommend their services.

Emma and Mark

Portsmouth, UK

We contacted Your IVF Journey after many years of unsuccessful IVF treatment. After spending some time talking to Becky, we knew we had found the support we needed. Having someone who can communicate for us directly with the clinic has been such a help. They’ve been through the process themselves and know the clinic, its procedures and staff really well. You often feel very alone when going through fertility treatment. But Becky and Ben were there for us. I’m now 15 weeks pregnant after an FET following our fresh donor-egg cycle. After 7 years and 6 IVFs, we are looking forward to our miracle baby’s arrival in July.

Sue and Matthew

Lisbon, Portugal

We embarked on the IVF process feeling uncertain and anxious, especially with me being a first-time older mother. We contacted Your IVF Journey, immediately felt reassured, and didn’t hesitate to go ahead. I definitely couldn’t have done this alone. Becky helped with everything, including where to source the drugs, which were considerably cheaper than expected. We were incredibly lucky to have succeeded on our first attempt and we have three more embryos in storage. We shall definitely return in the future. I can’t recommend Your IVF Journey and the clinic in Brno highly enough. Somehow, a process which seemed daunting and fraught became so much easier when someone is just a call or email away. Words don’t really do this justice, but thank you a million times over for helping to make this dream come true.

Karen and Sam

Swindon, UK

We had success the first time around and are now 25 weeks pregnant! The level of care and service Becky gave was excellent and the clinic was extremely professional. It has been a smooth process thanks to Becky and team. We are over the moon and can’t wait to meet our little girl! Thanks Becky!

Katherine and Julian

Paris, France

We are now 30 weeks pregnant and getting very excited to meet our boy/girl twins! The whole process from beginning to end went very smoothly, with Becky on hand every step of the way to answer any questions we had. We fell in love with Brno and strongly feel that being away in a beautiful city played a part in our success with IVF. All the staff at the clinic were fantastic and really put us at ease. We were well cared for and kept well informed throughout the process. The lab staff are also amazing and we were very lucky to be able to freeze a good number of quality blastocysts too! We cannot thank Becky and the clinic enough. We still can’t believe we have been blessed with two little miracles!

Rachel and Peter

After two failed IVF cycles at an eye-wateringly expensive Harley Street clinic we were completely wiped out, both emotionally and financially. I half-heartedly began researching options abroad, came across Your IVF Journey and decided to give them a ring. That first conversation with Ben was amazing – it was the first time in years of treatment I felt I was talking to an actual human being who understood what we were going through. (Talking to our Harley Street clinic we felt like walking chequebooks!) The whole process has been seamless and almost totally stress-free. The clinic was fantastic, the doctors warm and helpful, and Becky and Ben have supported and guided us through it all. So the whole experience ended up feeling more like a (admittedly slightly strange) holiday than an IVF cycle. We’re now 14 weeks pregnant, and finally starting to get our heads around the fact it actually worked! Giving them a ring was the best thing I ever did – we couldn’t recommend Your IVF Journey highly enough.

Ruth and Richard

After our first IVF cycle success we naively thought it would be easy to achieve success again – not true! After two further failed cycles, and quickly losing momentum and faith, we discovered Ben and Becky of Your IVF Journey and what a find that was. Together with their support and navigation into the scary unknown of treatment abroad, we are now expecting in April. Their instructions are clear, their availability at the end of the phone and prompt replies to any enquiry are second to none. We have never met them personally but the trust they built up with us is now similar to that of a close friend.

Sarah and Alistair

I read Becky and Ben’s story and thought, that’s me! They were so reassuring and answered all my questions about how to regulate my cycles, the process, costs and finding a donor. Having someone supporting me throughout, and skipping the long donor waiting list, was a massive benefit. They were incredibly kind and patient with me. Because they have been through painful infertility themselves, they really understood my worries. The trip was actually really enjoyable. Becky’s tips for relaxation were great and the masseur she recommended was incredible. The clinic was efficient and friendly. I even got to choose the songs I could listen to after the embryo was put in! I was lucky enough to get a positive test result. Nearly six months after my trip, I still feel like Ben and Becky are there for me. I honestly can’t recommend them enough. For a nervous person like me who has been through so much hurt and pain, I just couldn’t have done without them. Using them was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Heather and Evan

We couldn’t be happier with the help we received from Your IVF Journey. The whole process was so straightforward. Becky was always there to swiftly answer any questions or smooth out any problems (e.g. when I forgot to pack enough medication). The clinic was fantastic, and the staff were friendly and relaxed. Brno is a great city to spend time in – there was a music festival on when we were there. We were matched with a donor who gave us 16 eggs, and we were successful first time. We had our 12-week scan this week and still can’t believe we are having our child in July, after such a long wait. I would recommend using Your IVF Journey to anyone facing fertility treatment.

Jo and Garry

Norwich, UK

I could list all the great points of our experience, but there are so many that it would probably crash Becky and Ben’s website! After six years of trying, two failed attempts at IVF and a whole year of considering how I would feel using another woman’s eggs, I am now 21 weeks pregnant with twins. If I had known then what I know now, I would have called Becky and Ben immediately. The process was seamless, the clinic is beyond excellent, and Becky and Ben were there for us the whole way. I will never forget the morning we had our embryo transfer. I knew in my heart, and felt it so deeply, that these babies were mine. That’s how I’ve felt ever since. We will forever be eternally thankful to Becky and Ben for getting us to this point. We can’t wait to meet our babies!

Lesley and Gerrick

Two years ago we were told to look at the option of egg donation. After a while getting our heads around it we decided to go abroad for treatment, as the cost in Ireland is astronomical. We decided on the Czech Republic and I came across Becky and Ben’s website. Even when I made initial contact with Becky, she was so quick in getting back to me with answers to my (probably very trivial and silly) questions and always put my mind at ease. She took care of everything for me and made it so easy for us. We travelled to Brno, stayed there for a week, and two weeks later I found out that I was pregnant. We now have a beautiful 9-week old baby girl lying here beside us. She is a little miracle to us, and we are forever thankful to Becky and Ben for all their help and support.

Mel and Edward

Belfast, Northern Ireland

No day goes by without us counting our blessings for the day we found Your IVF Journey’s website and phoned Becky and Ben. After being told by a doctor in a very expensive and cold hospital, we could never use our own eggs, we didn’t really know what to do. After much grieving, we researched our options and came across the warm and friendly Your IVF Journey. From the initial chat to all the procedures later, we cannot fault the professionalism we came across. Both Becky and Ben made us feel at ease with the adventures we were about to embark on. Knowing they had been through the same, really made it real for us. We are delighted to say our first attempt worked and are are now 22 weeks pregnant! A situation we never thought we would get to. We feel so incredibly blessed and feel there are so many people in this journey to thank. From Becky and Ben, to the doctors and staff at the clinic and to some wonderful friends we made in Brno. We are now spreading the news to friends in similar situations and hope many other couples will consider this route. We give thanks each day for picking up the phone and being given hope.

Julie and Ben

Egg donation was the only realistic option for us. But we were dismayed at the waiting time for donors in the UK. When going abroad was suggested to us, we were apprehensive and unsure for a while. But after talking to Your IVF Journey, I felt much more at ease with the idea. I t was like someone had my back covered and was watching over everything. I could contact Becky and Ben about anything, whenever I needed to. When we were in Brno, all of their reassurances about the clinic were true. We felt comfortable with the whole process. Amazingly, we are now nine weeks pregnant and it’s still not sunk in! We are grateful to Your IVF Journey for the support and help they have given us, which was invaluable.

Sue and Alan

Worcester, UK

After an unsuccessful IVF attempt in the UK, the process of which I found quite stressful, I decided to employ the services of Your IVF Journey on my second attempt. I can honestly say it was well worth the investment. I was given constant reassurance of the necessary procedures, with very quick responses to any queries I had. Nothing was too much trouble. My treatment was a success and I am currently seven months pregnant with a very healthy baby. I have subsequently recommended this service to a friend – she is also very impressed with all the help she has been given and is pregnant too! We really can’t thank Ben and Becky enough.

Kirsty and Blake

Alex and I would like to say a big thank you to Your IVF Journey for making our dreams of having a baby come true. IVF treatment, especially abroad, can be daunting and stressful. But Becky and Ben were so encouraging and helpful throughout the whole process, our minds were put at ease from the beginning. No concern of ours, whether big or small, was ignored and our questions were always responded to promptly and thoroughly. Also, when our first cycle did not work, Becky and Ben were so understanding, offering their services again at no extra cost. I would most certainly recommend Your IVF Journey to anyone looking to have IVF treatment in the Czech Republic.

Tamsin and Alex

Becky and Ben made the daunting prospect of going abroad for donor egg treatment into an easy and enjoyable experience. When we first started researching donor eggs abroad it seemed like a minefield. We were overwhelmed. But finding Your IVF Journey’s website instantly made us feel that this next part of our journey to become parents would be achievable. The fee is very reasonable given the amount of contact and information we received and all the organisation that was done on our behalf. From receiving the prescriptions for the drugs, recommendations of hotels, modes of travel (even to the extent of which tram stop and tram number to catch) and things to do while we were there, things couldn’t have been less stressful. We had many questions, and not once were we made to feel a nuisance, each one answered in a timely and professional manner. And knowing that Becky and Ben had been through the same process at the same clinic made the whole experience more reassuring. We are currently pregnant with twins after our first try. Thank you Your IVF Journey for your help with our journey.

Shelley and Andrew

After several years of trying to conceive unsuccessfully, we took our first steps into the IVF world. After lots of research we decided to go with Your IVF Journey. We couldn’t be happier with the choice we made. From start to finish Becky and Ben were great. Having them handle all the communication with the clinic and answer all our questions was invaluable. It made the whole experience much easier than if we had tried to organise everything ourselves. Becky and Ben took all the pressure off, enabling us to enjoy the whole process. The clinic was fantastic, Brno was lovely and we had a surprisingly relaxing time. I’m currently 16 weeks pregnant and couldn’t be more thrilled. None of this would have been possible without Becky and Ben’s help and advice. We will be forever thankful to them.

Louisa and Nick

Birmingham, UK

Thank you for getting us through what could have been a daunting journey. You both made the whole experience simple, from booking the clinic (which is excellent) to a date that suited us, help with travel arrangements and a handy guide for when we were in Brno. Plus being on hand to help with any queries or concerns we had before and after the trip to the Czech Republic. After three failed IVF attempts in the UK, I am delighted that I am now 16 weeks pregnant with twins thanks to Your IVF Journey. I don’t know what we would have done without you.

Pam and Eamon

We are having a boy! All is fine so far and I’m 22 weeks now with a proud bump!  We just wanted to say a huge thank you for your support and advice before, during and after our treatment in Brno. Your professional service, and the unbelievable treatment we received, have truly ‘completed’ our family unit.  There are not enough words to say thank you, and even those two words seem too small for such a gift we feel we have been lucky enough to receive.  I’m so thankful I came across your website and that our paths crossed when they did.

Hannah and Simon

It was most useful to have a UK contact throughout the process. Both Becky and Ben are very approachable and helpful, making the experience easier to cope with.

Annabel and Marcus

Millions of thanks to Becky and Ben for making our dream come true. I’m presently 13 weeks pregnant and expecting twins! After trying multiple IVF treatments with no success, we decided to go with egg donation abroad using Your IVF Journey. My husband and I were greatly supported through the entire process, and helped overcome our fears and anxieties. We could never have done this without you both! Please continue with your fantastic work in helping others, and guiding them through their incredible journey.

Karina and Michael

Montreal, Canada

I’m pregnant! Thanks for all your help with both cycles, you have made the whole process so easy and we have had two lovely trips to Brno. The advice and support have been above and beyond what I could have hoped for.

Kerry and Matthew

Darlington, UK

I am now 14 weeks pregnant and couldn’t be happier. I owe so much to Becky and Ben at Your IVF Journey. We will be forever grateful for all your efforts and those of the clinic. I just don’t know how we could have done it without you. As you’ve been through the same experience, you were able to allay my concerns and worries. I feel so happy and blessed each day!

Susan and Stuart

Reading, UK

I dare not count my chickens, and I should be rejoicing from the rooftops, but I say this with trepidation… we’re flipping pregnant! It’s completely surreal. My HCG came back at 2265 so I’d better start to believe it! Thank you so much for your help in ‘getting’ us to Brno. I wish every couple would do an ‘IVF holiday’. It’s a far, far more positive experience than in the UK. With huge thanks.

Lorna and Sam

Huddersfield, UK

Thank you both ever so much for all the work you did for us on our IVF journey. We wouldn’t have been able to get through everything without the massive help we received from you both. Everything was so quick and efficient and I wouldn’t fault a single thing from your service. Not only do we appreciate your help but more importantly we appreciate the support we received from you both. It kept us positive the whole way through our treatment.

We also had a fantastic experience at the clinic, who were also very positive the whole way through. We are delighted that the treatment worked first time and now we are pregnant. So again, thank you so much for everything you have done for us.

Melanie and Simon

We found Your IVF Journey online after doing lots of research on IVF using donor eggs. We are glad we chose them and were very happy with their service. They were very professional, at the same time friendly, and in our case very patient and understanding. Now, thank God, we are 12 weeks pregnant and are expecting twins!

Bryan and Joanne

Watford, UK

I started trying to get pregnant when I was 38, but nothing was happening. I had consoled myself that maybe it was not meant to be, and that I had left it too late. We also had looked into adopting. But then we came across Your IVF Journey and were pleasantly surprised by the cost of IVF at their clinic. I called them and felt very positive after our chat. We decided to get the ball rolling.

Ben and Becky were there every step of the way, answering all our questions. We decided to go with embryo adoption, given my age. We had two embryos implanted. The clinic was fantastic and Ben and Becky’s support and guidance made our journey abroad easy. Brno is a beautiful place, very relaxing, and the hotel was lovely. I am pleased to tell you that I am 18 weeks pregnant with twins! All our dreams have come true and it is thanks to Your IVF Journey.

Louise and Chris

Glasgow, Scotland

"Why Staying Hopeful Is So Important For Your Fertility and IVF Journey" with Larissa Laskin The Babymakers Podcast

• Alternative Health

Fertility acupuncturist Danica Thornberry interviews a former infertility patient to discuss ways to acknowledge the tough subjects that come up on the fertility journey; such as emotional healing, personal transformation, reframing obstacles and limited beliefs. Listen to this episode on the hard days when you feel like giving up. Executive Producer: Danica Thornberry Associate Producer: Miranda Ogletree Audio Engineer: Patrick Edwards This episode is sponsored by: wellpeople Integrative Healing (wellpeoplehealing.com)

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Patient Journey

The cayman ivf experience.

What can you expect from IVF in Cayman? Below you will find a short series of video clips provided by our partners at Barbados Fertility Centre that will hopefully answer any questions you have about traveling to the Caribbean for successful IVF and a relaxing vacation to remember!

This is your 14 step by step IVF guide to what happens during your 14 day trip to Cayman for IVF.

If we missed anything or you would like to speak to us in person then please email [email protected] .

We are here to help you achieve your dream of becoming parents.

Dr. Juliet Skinner, Medical Director talks about Barbados Fertility Center, who we are, how we do our jobs and why we do it

Anna Hosford, Clinic Director and IVF Nurse Co-ordinator talks about what to expect during your first consultation with us

Dr. Juliet Skinner, Medical Director talks about what to expect during your first Dr consultation with us here at the Cayman Fertility Clinic

Dr. Juliet Skinner, Medical Director talks about initial tests that we require prior to IVF at the Cayman Fertility Clinic

Anna Hosford, Clinic Director and IVF Nurse Coordinator talks about the tests and medication you need prior to IVF in Cayman

Anna Hosford, Clinic Director and IVF Nurse Co-ordinator talks about how to prepare for your IVF cycle in Cayman

Danielle Wilson, Patient Liaison Co-ordinator talks about getting to Cayman, finance, transport, appointments and our on site spa Life Wellness Center

Anna Hosford, Clinic Director and IVF Nurse Co-ordinator talks about your first appointment at CFC when you arrive in Cayman

Anna Hosford, Clinic Director talks about beautiful Cayman and the many things you can do whilst undergoing IVF.

Dr. Juliet Skinner, Medical Director explains the important step of egg retrieval and how it works at the Cayman Fertility Center.

Dr. Juliet Skinner, Medical Director talks about our state of the ART laboratory and the cutting edge advances in technology we use to increase your chances of success.

Dr. Juliet Skinner, Medical Director explains Blastocyst and how that decision is made with you for your best chance of success.

Dr. Juliet Skinner, Medical Director outlines the embryo transfer and what to expect

Anna Hosford, Clinic Director talks about the 14 day wait and how to get through it

After the Alabama Supreme Court IVF ruling: a reporter analyzes impact, a patient shares journey

In vitro fertilization has been in national headlines ever since Alabama’s state Supreme Court ruling last month granted human embryos outside the womb the same rights as children.

In the wake of that ruling, Alabama lawmakers passed bipartisan legislation that protects IVF clinics and doctors in the case of "death or damage to an embryo" during the IVF process. Some critics say the legislation won’t stand up to legal scrutiny and others say it does not adequately address the issue of personhood.

Due South talks to WBHM health and science reporter Mary Scott Hodgin about how this debate is playing out in Alabama.

Then, a conversation with IVF patient Michelle Howard in Gulf Shores, AL about the stresses and costs, and the hopes, of her IVF journey, and how the recent ruling and legislation has impacted her and others in her IVF community.

Guests Mary Scott Hodgin , Health & Science Reporter, WBHM Michelle Howard , IVF patient in Gulf Shores, AL

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Couples Sue Fertility Clinic, Alleging Women Were Implanted with Dead and Toxic Embryos (Exclusive)

In an exclusive interview, Brooke Berger and her husband Bennett Hardy, along with eight other couples, allege Ovation Fertility contaminated their embryos

Courtesy Brooke Berger and Bennett Hardy

Brooke Berger, 37, and her husband Bennett Hardy, 33, were excited to begin in vitro fertilization two years ago. They retrieved seven viable embryos from their doctor in Colorado and looked forward to starting a family with the help of modern medicine.

But IVF, an assisted reproductive technology that fertilizes eggs with sperm in the laboratory and places one or more embryos back into the womb, failed with their first five embryos. After the first of those inseminations, in the summer of 2022, Berger had an ectopic pregnancy and had her fallopian tube removed.

"It was devastating," she tells PEOPLE exclusively in a phone interview. "It means we were even more reliant on IVF, and it further reduced our odds of conceiving naturally."

But there will was still hope.

"We were happy we still had two more left, and thrilled to have the opportunity to keep going," she says.

After the couple moved to Orange County, Calif., in July last year, they had their remaining two frozen embryos shipped to their new doctor, who worked with Ovation Fertility, a national storage treatment and laboratory in Newport Beach, to begin the process again. 

Berger, an ecologist currently in a Ph.D program, spent nearly a month injecting medications and taking others orally to help stimulate the production of eggs and later fertilize them, even though she says it gave her nerve pain that she still suffers from today.

Her husband, a research scientist at a university in Orange County, says they hadn't given up hope. They decided to implant both embryos simultaneously to increase their chances by more than 50%.

"You get your hopes up when you hear something like that from a doctor," says Berger. But after the embryos were thawed and implanted on Jan. 25, 2024, the couple claim that a month later something horrific had happened to their only remaining embryos — and they are still seeking answers.

Berger and Hardy are one of the nine couples who filed a joint lawsuit on Tuesday, April 23, obtained by PEOPLE, against IVF provider Ovation Fertility in Newport Beach, alleging its clinic destroyed their embryos. The filing claims that a lab embryologist wrongly used hydrogen peroxide (or some other caustic agent) instead of a sterile solution like distilled water in an incubator, causing the embryos to be "killed instantly." The complaint further alleges that the facility recklessly and wrongfully exposed the embryos to poison, then knowingly implanted "these dead embryos into the would-be mothers."

"It's been very difficult and has taken such a toll," says Berger, with her husband Hardy, and their attorneys Robert H. Marcereau and Michelle B. Hemesath, also on the line. "There was no chance at all. We found out that we went through all of this for nothing.  It was really heartbreaking." 

Hardy, her husband, adds, "We're going through this together, and we're trying to start a family together, but ultimately, it's Brooke who is sacrificing her body physically and mentally, and I can only do so much."

Hardy continues: "It's just so hard seeing her with these medications, and the pain, and the whole process, and then for it to be for nothing, in this case where it's not even our fault — it's devastating."

All nine couples claim the clinic used high-grade embryos that should have had a 75% or above chance of success from Jan. 18 to Jan. 30. But, according to the complaint, the odds were 0% because the clinic knowingly used nonviable embryos, and none of the women got pregnant.

"Ovation Fertility and its providers then implanted these dead embryos into their patient," the complaint reads. "Then commencing with an attempted cover-up that intensified the suffering of the nine California couples."

In an interview with PEOPLE, Marcereau, the attorney for the couples, says, "The story that came up more often and more consistently — at least three or four times with our clients — getting it secondhand from their doctors, was this notion that somehow hydrogen peroxide had been accidentally introduced into the incubator while the embryos were there, which hydrogen peroxide, it's basically like battery acid to those embryos."

"It's a very caustic substance, particularly if it's a higher percentage strength. And it was lethal to them. That's why there was a 100% mortality rate for these embryos during this period. But Ovation has never come out and said exactly what happened," he alleges.

Marcereau further alleges, "They don't have qualified personnel and protocols to ensure things like this don't happen."

When reached for comment, a spokesperson for Ovation Fertility wrote in an email to PEOPLE, "Ovation Fertility has protocols in place to protect the health and integrity of every embryo under our care. This was an isolated incident related to an unintended laboratory technician error that impacted a very small number of patients."

The spokesperson added, "As soon as we recognized that pregnancy numbers were lower than our usually high success rates, we immediately initiated an investigation. We have been in close contact with these few impacted patients since the issue was discovered. We are grateful for the opportunity to help patients build a family and will continue to implement and enforce rigorous protocols to safeguard that process."

'We haven't gotten to the bottom of what happened'

According to the complaint, in March and April, Conor Beardsley, the President of Ovation, sent the plaintiffs letters "to confirm the understanding we have reached to provide you with certain accommodations regarding your fertility care." However, the complaint claims no couples had ever spoken with the facility members about the alleged misconduct or even Beardsley about any "accommodations."

Superior Court of California

"There were no discussions regarding possible settlement or resolution and certainly no agreement or 'understanding,'" the complaint claims. "Rather, Ovation tried to trick these then-unrepresented couples into signing a release agreement in exchange for a refund of lab fees, which amounted to a little over $5,000." (A single IVF cycle — including genetic testing — is estimated at $25,000, according to FertilityIQ .)

According to the complaint, shortly after Beardsley sent the letter to the plaintiffs, a lab manager at Ovation allegedly reached out to them multiple times a day, trying to get them to sign a release and non-disparagement agreement. None of the couples signed the paperwork or received any money.

Beardsley could not be reached for comment ahead of publication.

The eight other unnamed couples in the complaint filed in California Superior Court also claim they had similar experiences to those of Berger and Hardy, asserting multiple claims, including negligent and intentional misrepresentation, negligent hiring, retention and supervision, concealment, loss of consortium and medical battery. Two nearly identical lawsuits were also filed on Thursday, April 18, against Ovation Fertility, with two more unnamed couples alleging similar negligence. The couples are not revealing their names in the other lawsuits to protect their privacy, according to their complaints.

All lawsuits are seeking jury trials and asking for an unspecified amount of compensation and punitive damages.

"We can't speak to whether or not there may be some criminal action," says attorney Marcereau. "We haven't gotten to the bottom of what happened with the embryos. ... We have a lot of questions and no answers yet. That's what this litigation is going to be about. We want answers for these grieving couples and ensure nothing like this ever happens again."

"There's a process that's in place before the embryos are given to the physicians to implant," adds attorney Hemesath. "Part of that process, they're looking at the embryo — they look at it under a microscope. It's our belief that when they're looking at it during that process before it gets implanted, there would've been evidence that the embryo was not viable, and they should have informed the physician and the couples and then not proceeded forward with the implantation. It's that process prior to implantation that should have been identified. It's implied that it's viable because if it's not, the doctors wouldn't implant it. None of our clients were aware."

'I'm going to keep trying'

Berger and Hardy currently have no remaining embryos and will need to start IVF treatment all over again if they want to try to conceive.

"We do want to do this again," says Berger. "We're trying not to give up this fight, even with this setback. It's going to mean several months of medications and injections again and these procedures. But many doctors around here use Ovation, and we refuse to use them because we no longer trust them. We'll need to find a doctor we'd like to move forward with that won't be associated with that facility." 

As Berger continues talking about her fertility journey, she sounds hopeful again. "If we want to have a family, we are going to have to try really, really hard. It means a lot more medical treatment for me," she says. "It means putting my body at risk again. Waiting for the pregnancy test is the hardest part. You are feeling every little twinge and trying to interpret it. It's the toughest time. But I continue to hype myself back up and try to convince myself it will be okay."

She adds, "Our marriage is really strong and continues to be. My husband is the right partner for me to go through something like this. I've missed a lot of work, and it's hard to get up and focus. My mental health has suffered. It isn't easy every time you go through it, especially when it doesn't work out."

"But you know," she adds, holding back tears. "I'm going to keep trying."

A press conference will be held on April 23 at 1 p.m. EST/10 a.m. PST. Berger, Hardy and their attorneys will be discussing the case.

Related Articles

IVF clinic transferred ruined embryos to patients, lawsuits claim

A California fertility clinic transferred ruined embryos into multiple patients, failing to realize that the embryos had been compromised and could not result in pregnancy, a set of lawsuits alleged this month.

At least 11 people being treated at an Ovation Fertility office in Newport Beach, Calif., underwent embryo transfers and waited to find out whether they would become pregnant — but the embryos were no longer viable, the patients claimed in separate lawsuits, nine of which were filed Tuesday.

Dozens of embryos are thought to have been affected, and more patients plan lawsuits, an attorney for two of the couples who filed complaints in Orange County, Calif., told The Washington Post. Adam Wolf, the attorney, accused Ovation of transferring compromised embryos into patients over multiple weeks.

“This is a complete tragedy that was entirely needless,” Wolf said. He said he represents two additional patients who plan to sue.

The company said in a statement that “a very small number” of patients were affected.

Some of the lawsuits allege that clinic staff cleaned an incubator — where embryos are placed ahead of transfer into a patient’s uterus — with an “extremely unsafe” amount of hydrogen peroxide. Staff then put embryos into the incubator, which effectively destroyed them, making them no longer viable. Still, they were transferred into the patients.

That information is based on what the Ovation office told some patients, Wolf said. Rob Marcereau, an attorney for other plaintiffs, told the City News Service in Los Angeles that the clinic “has given different stories” to various patients.

The clinic did not know the embryos weren’t viable, Ovation Fertility said in the statement, realizing something might have gone wrong only after the transfers didn’t result in pregnancies.

“As soon as we recognized that pregnancy numbers were lower than our usually high success rates, we immediately initiated an investigation,” the statement said. “We did not knowingly transfer nonviable embryos for implantation.”

Ovation blamed “an unintended laboratory technician error” for what it called an isolated incident and said the clinic had rigorous protocols in place to protect embryos.

IVF involves retrieving eggs from a patient’s ovaries, fertilizing them to create embryos and transferring embryos to the uterus. It can be a lengthy and difficult process, and disappointments are common for couples experiencing infertility.

Some couples don’t get many embryos from the treatment, and not all embryos result in pregnancies, so every one is valuable.

Wolf said he knew of some patients who had used their last embryos in the transfer.

“Plaintiffs have been deprived of the opportunity to use their embryos,” the lawsuit said.

IVF has been in the spotlight since the Alabama Supreme Court’s ruling in February that frozen embryos are people — a decision that set off a political firestorm , alarmed couples in treatment and led Alabama lawmakers to give providers legal cover . That case stemmed from a lawsuit filed by couples whose embryos had been destroyed by a hospital patient who allegedly accessed and dropped a container holding them.

How strictly to regulate IVF has long been a topic of debate in the United States. Reproductive technology has been the target of criticism from some conservatives, while clinicians say it is sufficiently regulated. The American Society of Reproductive Medicine, which represents providers, says state, federal and professional regulation ensures safety.

“Incidents like this are exceedingly rare,” said Gerard Letterie, a reproductive endocrinologist and partner at Seattle Reproductive Medicine in Washington state.

Though IVF clinics are certified by independent regulatory bodies, more federal or state regulation could enforce standards more stringently, said Naomi R. Cahn, who co-directs the Family Law Center at the University of Virginia and researches reproductive technology.

“Currently, lawsuits are serving as a way of regulating the industry,” Cahn said. “We need to work toward prevention of these mishaps.”

She added that the Newport Beach case demonstrates “the need for better monitoring and regulation of IVF clinics.” She said it is difficult to estimate how many errors occur in labs because only the most egregious cases are usually publicized.

The suits accuse Ovation of negligent misrepresentation, fraud and medical battery and seek monetary and punitive damages.

“It’s hard to describe just how deeply traumatic this is for would-be parents,” Wolf said. “A fertility journey is hard enough when everything goes perfectly, and it’s just inexcusable when a fertility clinic is so reckless and indifferent.”

A previous version of this article incorrectly said that eggs are retrieved from the uterus. They are retrieved from the ovaries. The article has been corrected.