What is IVF treatment?

IVF treatment is currently the most advanced method among assisted reproductive techniques. It first became known in our world as a “HOPE” for couples wishing to have a baby with the birth of Louise Joy Brown on July 25, 1978.

Could you give us some information?

In simple terms, IVF is an assisted reproduction method in which both reproductive cells (in other words, the egg and the sperm) are taken outside the body, fertilized in a laboratory environment, and then the fertilized egg, namely the embryo, is placed into the uterus.

We generally start the treatment on the 2nd or 3rd day of menstruation. We usually begin with injection treatment — and we teach our patients when, where, and at what time these injections should be administered. During the regular check-ups, we measure the sacs containing the eggs (follicles) by ultrasound. When the follicles reach a certain size — usually around 18 mm — we administer the so-called “trigger shot.” In fact, this injection provides the final maturation of the eggs. The timing is very important, because after a certain number of hours following this injection, we collect the eggs before they rupture.

For the comfort of our patients, we use anesthesia during the egg retrieval procedure. On the same day, some time after the eggs are collected, they are separated from the surrounding cells and fertilization is attempted with the sperm obtained from the spouse. At this stage, injecting a single sperm directly into the egg under a microscope (microinjection) is applied as a technique that increases the chance of fertilization. After this stage, there are two options: either transfer the embryos on the 3rd or 5th day, or freeze them at -196 degrees with special techniques for transfer at a later date.

After this personalized transfer, arranged according to the characteristics of the individual, we investigate the presence of pregnancy with a blood pregnancy test approximately 12 days later. As our center, I should say that we can successfully apply every current method. However, our aim is not a standard treatment for everyone, but an individualized treatment. IVF is certainly a method that requires considerable emotional and financial effort, but when the result is positive, everything endured is forgotten.

What kind of nutrition do you recommend during treatment?

It is not correct to provide a strict list of foods. The basic principles are actually the same as those for a healthy diet. We recommend drinking plenty of water, choosing natural products, consuming fresh vegetables and fruits, and avoiding processed foods and sweeteners. I must emphasize that ALCOHOL and SMOKING (and all tobacco products) should absolutely not be used. In fact, if assisted reproductive techniques are to be applied, we want these to be stopped from the very beginning.

If the first attempt fails, how long later can the second attempt be made?

If the first attempt is unsuccessful, after carrying out any examinations specific to the person, the second attempt can begin immediately; there is no medical necessity to wait for a certain period. However, the emotional condition must be good. When the first attempt ends negatively, it truly becomes devastating. In IVF, it is necessary to recover with the support of the spouse, the physician, and the entire IVF team. We tell our patients that “there can never be a guarantee.” Sometimes the people who achieve pregnancy in later attempts are the clearest examples. I think the key word should be: NEVER GIVE UP.

Is becoming pregnant through IVF riskier than a naturally conceived pregnancy?

The risks are determined by the characteristics of the individual and the number of babies. Therefore, it cannot be said that IVF pregnancies are risky in themselves. However, because there may often be additional problems in IVF cases, they may naturally appear to carry greater risks.

What is your success rate in treatment?

As İRENBE IVF Center, let me answer by saying that our success is at the level of the major centers in the world. I think the main factor in this success is that we have a team spirit and a success-oriented approach.

Could you share a story about one of your patients?

Each of our patients has such unique aspects that it is difficult to decide which story is the most striking. For example, one patient who immediately comes to mind was 28 years old and had been told that her ovaries were not functioning and that she had entered menopause. Her AMH value was 0.6 ng/ml and her FSH value was 9–32 IU/L. She followed everything exactly as instructed, and in the end she had a wonderful little son. Another patient had undergone insemination twice and IVF twice before. Our first attempt was unsuccessful. She did not give up, followed everything exactly, and after ten years of longing, she had twin sons.

Prof. Dr. Ümit İnceboz / Gynecology and Obstetrics Specialist / İRENBE