IVF Procedure Step by Step - Part 2

Summary

This video script offers an in-depth look at the IVF process, focusing on the stimulation and monitoring stages. Melissa Klein explains the use of injectable medications, such as follicle-stimulating hormone, to stimulate ovaries and the importance of structured injections. She addresses the emotional and physical aspects of the process, provides tips on monitoring and managing side effects, and emphasizes the crucial timing of the 'trigger shot' for egg retrieval. The script also covers lifestyle considerations during IVF, including exercise restrictions and the importance of open communication with the care team.

Takeaways

• 💉 The process of stimulating the ovaries in IVF involves the use of injectable medications, primarily follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
• 📅 Most IVF cycles involve a structured regimen of daily injections, typically administered in the morning and evening to mimic natural cycles.
• 👩‍⚕️ Patients are encouraged to self-administer injections, which are usually subcutaneous and can be done on the belly where an inch can be pinched.
• 🧪 During the stimulation process, patients undergo regular monitoring with blood work and ultrasounds to track hormone levels and follicle development.
• 🍇 Follicles are fluid-filled structures in the ovaries, and each typically contains one egg. The size of the follicles is measured to estimate the number of eggs.
• 🚫 Patients are advised to avoid activities starting with the letter 'j' (e.g., jumping, jogging) during the middle and end of the cycle to prevent ovarian torsion.
• 💊 The 'trigger shot' is a crucial part of the process, determining the timing of the egg retrieval. It is typically administered at night, 36 hours before the retrieval.
• 🕒 The retrieval procedure itself is quick, involving mild anesthesia and ultrasound-guided needle aspiration of the follicles, and usually takes 5-8 minutes.
• 💊 Post-retrieval, patients are given pain medication and antibiotics, and are advised against sexual intercourse to prevent infection and unintended pregnancy.
• 📈 Communication with the care team is key throughout the process, with patients encouraged to ask questions and report any unusual symptoms.
• 🔚 Part two of the three-part video series concludes with the retrieval process, with part three to cover post-retrieval events including embryo development and the pregnancy test.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video script?

The main topic of the video script is the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process, specifically focusing on the stimulation and monitoring phase leading up to egg retrieval.

What role does Melissa Klein play in the video?

Melissa Klein is part of Progeny's member care team and serves as the narrator and guide for the video, explaining the IVF process to viewers.

What are the injectable medications used in the IVF process for?

The injectable medications used in the IVF process are follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.

Why is it important to administer the injections in a regimented fashion?

Administering the injections in a regimented fashion is important to ensure that the ovaries respond appropriately to the medication, allowing for the optimal development of follicles and timing of egg retrieval.

How are the injections typically administered and where are they given?

The injections are typically self-administered subcutaneously, usually in the belly area where an inch of pinchable fat is present.

What side effects can patients expect from the medications used in the IVF process?

Patients may experience bruising, bloating, and some may feel a sense of well-being due to elevated estrogen levels. However, most side effects are minimal.

What is the purpose of monitoring visits during the IVF process?

Monitoring visits involve blood work and ultrasounds to check hormone levels and follicle development, ensuring that the medication is working effectively and to determine the optimal timing for egg retrieval.

How are the number of eggs expected to be retrieved estimated during the monitoring phase?

The number of eggs is estimated by measuring the follicles through ultrasound; typically, a follicle size of around 17-18 millimeters indicates the presence of an egg.

What is the significance of the 'trigger shot' in the IVF process?

The 'trigger shot' is crucial as it induces the final maturation of the eggs before retrieval. It is timed to ensure that the eggs are matured but not yet ovulated when the retrieval procedure is performed.

What are some activities that should be avoided during the ovarian stimulation phase of IVF?

Activities that start with the letter 'j' such as jumping, jogging, and bouncing should be avoided to prevent ovarian torsion, a serious complication where the ovary can twist and cut off its blood supply.

What precautions should be taken regarding sexual activity during the IVF process?

Patients should be aware that unprotected intercourse could lead to ovulation and potentially impact the cycle's outcome. Additionally, if the male partner is providing a fresh sample at the time of retrieval, he should abstain for two to five days prior.

What is the typical duration of the egg retrieval procedure and what can the patient expect?

The egg retrieval procedure typically lasts five to eight minutes. The patient will receive mild anesthesia, be monitored with an ultrasound, and have the contents of each follicle aspirated using a needle. The process is quick and usually painless.

What advice is given to patients after the egg retrieval procedure?

Patients are advised to avoid sexual intercourse for two reasons: the possibility of pregnancy from any unretrieved follicles and the risk of infection. They are also given pain medication and antibiotics and are instructed to contact the clinic if they feel unwell.