Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) & IVF

ART encompasses several techniques designed to aid the conception and pregnancy processes. These techniques are highly sophisticated, involving the manipulation of sperm and eggs outside the body. Here are the most prominent methods used:

• In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF): IVF is the cornerstone of ART. It involves stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, which are then retrieved and fertilised with sperm in a lab environment. The embryos created are monitored for development, with one or more being transferred back into the woman’s uterus.
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): This technique is particularly beneficial for severe cases of male infertility. ICSI involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg to facilitate fertilisation, followed by the transfer of the resulting embryo into the uterus. It is also used where frozen eggs are being thawed and prepared for use.
• Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET): Often, IVF procedures produce more viable embryos than can be used in a single cycle. Excess embryos of good quality can be frozen for future use. FET refers to the thawing and transfer of these embryos into the uterus in subsequent cycles.
• Egg and Sperm Donation: This option involves using eggs or sperm provided by a donor, which is an alternative for individuals who cannot use their own gametes due to various health reasons.
• Gestational Surrogacy: Surrogacy is an arrangement where another woman carries and gives birth to a child for someone who cannot carry a pregnancy to term. The embryo implanted in the surrogate can be created using the intended parents’ own eggs and sperm or those from donors.