IVF is a widely used fertility treatment that has helped many individuals and couples achieve their dream of parenthood. If you’re considering IVF in the UK, understanding the IVF process can help you feel more prepared and in control. This step-by-step guide will walk you through what to expect, from the initial consultation to embryo transfer and beyond.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Fertility Tests
The IVF process begins with an initial consultation at a fertility clinic. You can either be referred by your GP for NHS-funded IVF (if eligible) or book a private consultation at a clinic of your choice.
During this appointment, a fertility specialist will review your medical history and arrange necessary tests, including:
- Blood tests to check hormone levels such as AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone), FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone), and LH (Luteinizing Hormone).
- Ultrasound scans to assess ovarian reserve and check for conditions such as fibroids or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
- Semen analysis (for male partners) to evaluate sperm count, motility, and morphology.
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) or hysteroscopy to check for blockages in the fallopian tubes (if necessary).
Based on these results, your consultant will discuss your chances of success and recommend a personalised IVF treatment plan.
Step 2: Preparing for IVF Treatment
Before starting IVF, you may be advised to make lifestyle changes to optimise your fertility, such as:
- Maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients.
- Taking prenatal vitamins, including folic acid and vitamin D.
- Reducing stress through mindfulness, acupuncture, or counselling.
- Avoiding alcohol, smoking, and caffeine to improve egg and sperm quality.
Some clinics also recommend pre-IVF treatments, such as hormonal priming, to improve ovarian response.
Step 3: Ovarian Stimulation and Monitoring
The first active stage of the IVF process is ovarian stimulation. This involves taking hormonal medications to encourage the ovaries to produce multiple eggs rather than the single egg released naturally each month.
Common IVF medications include:
- Gonadotropins (FSH & LH) – to stimulate the ovaries to produce eggs.
- GnRH agonists or antagonists – to prevent premature ovulation.
- Trigger shot (hCG or GnRH agonist) – to mature eggs before retrieval.
During this phase, regular ultrasound scans and blood tests monitor your response to the medication, and dosages are adjusted if needed.
Step 4: Egg Collection (Egg Retrieval)
When your follicles have reached the right size (typically after 10-14 days of stimulation), you will receive a trigger injection to mature the eggs. Egg retrieval occurs about 36 hours later and is a minor surgical procedure performed under sedation or anaesthesia.
During the procedure:
- A thin needle is inserted through the vaginal wall into the ovaries to collect the eggs.
- The procedure takes about 20-30 minutes.
- You may experience mild cramping or bloating afterwards but can usually go home the same day.
Step 5: Fertilisation and Embryo Development
Once the eggs are collected, they are fertilised with sperm in the laboratory using one of two methods:
- Conventional IVF – eggs and sperm are placed together in a petri dish to fertilise naturally.
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) – a single sperm is injected directly into an egg, often used for male infertility.
Fertilisation is monitored, and successfully fertilised eggs develop into embryos over the next 3-5 days. Embryologists assess embryo quality before deciding which are suitable for transfer or freezing.
Step 6: Embryo Transfer
Embryo transfer is a simple and painless procedure where a selected embryo is placed into the uterus using a thin catheter. This typically occurs on Day 3 or Day 5 after fertilisation.
Key considerations for embryo transfer:
- Some clinics recommend transferring a single embryo to reduce the risk of multiple births.
- Extra embryos can be frozen for future use.
- The procedure is similar to a smear test and requires no anaesthesia.
If there is a risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), your clinic may suggest freezing embryos and transferring them in a later cycle.
Step 7: The Two-Week Wait
After embryo transfer, you enter the two-week wait (TWW) before taking a pregnancy test. You may be prescribed progesterone support (injections, pessaries, or gels) to aid implantation.
Common symptoms during this period include:
- Mild cramping
- Bloating
- Breast tenderness
- Light spotting
It’s essential to avoid testing too early, as this could lead to false results.
Step 8: Pregnancy Test and Next Steps
Around 10-14 days after embryo transfer, you will take a blood test or home pregnancy test to determine if the treatment was successful.
- If positive, you will be scheduled for an early pregnancy scan at 6-7 weeks.
- If negative, your consultant will discuss next steps, such as a frozen embryo transfer (FET) or adjusting the treatment plan.
IVF Success Rates and Factors Affecting Outcome
IVF success rates depend on various factors, including:
- Age – Younger women generally have higher success rates.
- Egg and sperm quality – Healthier reproductive cells lead to better outcomes.
- Underlying conditions – PCOS, endometriosis, or male infertility can impact success.
- Clinic expertise – Success rates vary between fertility clinics.
According to the HFEA, the average IVF success rates in the UK are:
- 32% for women under 35
- 25% for women aged 35-37
- 19% for women aged 38-39
- 11% for women aged 40-42
Cost of IVF in the UK
The cost of IVF depends on whether you qualify for NHS-funded treatment or opt for private treatment.
- NHS IVF: Eligibility varies by location, so check your local Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) policy. Check NHS funding eligibility
- Private IVF: Costs range from £4,000-£8,000 per cycle, excluding medication and additional services such as ICSI or embryo freezing.
Final Thoughts
The IVF process can be emotionally and physically challenging, but understanding each step helps you feel more empowered. Whether you are just starting or have been through multiple cycles, support is available through fertility clinics, charities, and online communities.
If you’re currently going through IVF or considering it, you’re not alone. Stay informed, seek support, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
For more fertility tips, support, and real-life stories, stay connected with FertilityFix
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