In vitro fertilisation (IVF)
Fertility treatment to help a woman have a baby
IVF is used to treat a range of fertility problems. Since 1988, over 16,500 IVF 'Lister' babies have been born.
About
IVF is used to treat a variety of fertility problems. During IVF treatment, sperm is combined with an egg in a laboratory. The fertilised egg (embryo) is then transferred to a woman's womb. IVF can be carried out with a couple's own sperm and eggs, or with donor sperm or donor eggs.
Need to know
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What happens icon plus
There are six main steps: 1. Daily hormone injections help your ovaries produce more eggs. You’ll also have medication to stop you releasing the eggs before we collect them. 2. You’ll have ultrasound scans and blood tests to monitor your egg production. 3. You’ll have another hormone injection before your eggs are collected to help them reach maturity. 4. Your eggs are collected using a special needle under ultrasound guidance — usually under a general anaesthetic. 5. Each egg is placed with sperm to be fertilised. 6. The embryos are transferred to your womb two to six days later, using a catheter. This is painless so you won't need anaesthetic. -
How to prepare icon plus
Your consultant will let you know how to prepare for the procedure. -
Afterwards icon plus
You can go home after both the egg collecting and embryo transfer procedures. You don't need to stay in hospital overnight. After the embryos have been transferred, you can get back to your usual routine. You’ll have a pregnancy test two weeks after egg collection. You’ll need to take progesterone supplements during this time. If you’re pregnant, you’ll need to keep taking these until you’re 12 weeks pregnant.
Celebrating 30 years of The Lister Fertility Clinic
To celebrate The Lister Fertility Clinic turning 30, Dr James Nicopoullos, Dr Marie Wren and Dr Yau Thum talk about the history of the clinic and how they continue to use the latest techniques in fertility treatment. We also meet three former patients of the clinic and hear their stories.
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.