In-vitro Fertilization and Embryo Transfer (IVF + ET)

Indications

• Tubal disease
• Severe male factor
• Advanced age of female partner
• Failure of other methods of treatment

We usually grow embryos in the laboratory until Day 5, known as the Blastocyst stage, some studies have shown that extending culture to the blastocyst stage may mean that more of the normal chromosomes surviving blastocysts may be available for transfer.

After three days of natural dividing, our embryologists will observe and determine if the Day 3 embryo has continued dividing properly and is a healthy candidate for implantation. If the embryo is healthy, it is suggested to allow it to develop naturally for two additional days, so that it can become competent and more viable for implantation. In cases where an embryo is deemed unlikely to grow stronger, you can take advice from our embryologists to decide on an earlier date for transfer.

Embryologists will monitor the embryonic development and choose the best embryo and the best day for embryo transfer.

If more than two embryos develop, we can freeze those that are surplus for use in subsequent cycles.

Complications

• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
• It is a rare, iatrogenic complication of ovarian stimulation for assisted reproduction technology and other infertility treatment.
• It is a self-limiting disorder that usually resolves spontaneously within several days, but may persist for longer duration, particularly in pregnant cycle.
• This syndrome has a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, from mild illness needing only careful observation to severe disease requiring hospitalization and intensive care.
• Symptoms:
• Abdominal bloating
• Abdominal discomfort/pain, need for analgesia
• Nausea and vomiting
• Breathlessness, inability to lie flat or talk in full sentences
• Reduced urine output
• Leg swelling
• Vulval swelling
• Procedure-related Complications
• Oocyte retrieval (egg collection) is a minor surgical procedure and it is usually without complication. However, complications may sometimes occur. These include bleeding, injury to nearby organs such as the urinary bladder, bowel and blood vessels and pelvic infection.
• Multiple pregnancies
• Ecotopic Pregency
• There is a chance that the embryo has implanted outside the womb, e.g. the fallopian tubes. In these scenarios, the embryo will not be able to develop into normal pregnancy and there will be a risk of bleeding. Therefore further discussion with a gynaecologist on the management is required.

IVF Treatment Follow-up (Chinese Only)

Semen Collection Instruction (Chinese Only)