Al Ain Fertility Center

Patient Education Hub • IVF & Fertility Services

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

IVF combines egg retrieval, laboratory fertilisation, and embryo transfer. It helps many people with tubal, male‑factor, ovulation, or unexplained infertility.

Monitored cycle Egg retrieval Embryo transfer

Key takeaways

  • IVF is a series of steps—your plan is personalised by your AAFC team.
  • Fertilisation may occur by conventional IVF or by ICSI depending on lab assessment.
  • Success depends on age, egg/embryo quality, medical history, and embryo selection.

When is IVF recommended?

  • Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
  • Male‑factor infertility or previous fertilisation problems
  • Ovulation disorders not responding to simpler treatments
  • Endometriosis, unexplained infertility, or fertility preservation

How IVF works — step by step

1) Ovarian stimulation & monitoring. Injectable medications grow multiple follicles. Ultrasound/blood tests guide dosage and timing.
2) Trigger & egg retrieval. A trigger shot matures the eggs. Around 34–36 hours later, eggs are collected under light sedation with a needle guided by ultrasound.
3) Fertilisation in the lab. Eggs are combined with sperm (IVF) or injected with a single sperm (ICSI) as advised by the embryology team.
4) Embryo culture. Embryos develop in carefully controlled conditions, usually to day 3 or day 5–6 (blastocyst).
5) Embryo transfer. A thin catheter places one embryo into the uterus. Remaining suitable embryos may be frozen.
6) The two‑week wait. A pregnancy test is done as instructed by your team.

Risks & considerations

  • Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) is uncommon; careful monitoring reduces the risk.
  • Procedure‑related risks: bleeding, infection, or injury are rare with ultrasound‑guided retrieval.
  • Multiples: AAFC supports single‑embryo transfer where appropriate to reduce twin risks.
  • Emotional and time commitment—your team will provide support throughout.

Success factors

  • Age and ovarian reserve
  • Egg/embryo quality and uterine factors
  • Sperm parameters and lab conditions
  • Embryo stage/selection and transfer technique

What IVF does not address

  • Severe uterine cavity abnormalities without surgical management
  • Genetic conditions in embryos without genetic testing
  • Advanced maternal age limitations on egg quality (donor eggs may be discussed separately)

Freezing & future cycles

  • Surplus suitable embryos can be frozen (vitrification) for later use.
  • Protocols may be adjusted in a subsequent cycle based on how you responded.

Frequently asked questions

Is egg retrieval painful?
You’ll receive light sedation. Cramping or spotting after is usually mild and short‑lived.

How many embryos will be transferred?
Often one embryo is recommended to reduce risk of multiples; your doctor will advise.

Do I need bed rest after transfer?
Light activity is fine unless told otherwise. Avoid heavy lifting and follow your instructions.

What if fertilisation is low?
Your team may discuss ICSI or adjustments for a future cycle based on lab findings.

When will we know the result?
Blood pregnancy test timing will be provided by your care team (usually ~10–14 days after transfer).

Next steps: Your AAFC specialist will personalise your protocol and discuss the likely timeline, medications, and support.
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This information supports—not replaces—discussion with your clinician. Recommendations may differ for your individual case.