1Fertility medications are prescribed to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Regular monitoring through blood tests and ultrasounds tracks egg development.

This phase typically lasts 8-14 days and helps ensure multiple eggs mature for retrieval. The medications are carefully controlled to maximize egg production while minimizing risks.

2A minor surgical procedure performed under sedation where a needle is guided through the vagina to retrieve eggs from the ovarian follicles using ultrasound guidance.

The procedure takes about 20-30 minutes, and patients can usually go home the same day. Typically, 8-15 eggs are retrieved, but this can vary based on individual response.

3On the same day as egg retrieval, a sperm sample is provided by the male partner or donor. The sperm is then processed and prepared for fertilization in the lab.

In some cases, sperm may be previously frozen or obtained through surgical extraction. The sperm is "washed" to concentrate the healthiest sperm for fertilization.

4The eggs and sperm are combined in a laboratory dish to allow fertilization to occur. In cases with male factor infertility, ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) may be used.

This process is carefully monitored by embryologists to ensure successful fertilization. Typically, 50-80% of mature eggs will fertilize successfully.

5Fertilized eggs (now embryos) are monitored as they develop in a special culture medium for 3-6 days. They're kept in an incubator that mimics the human body.

Embryologists evaluate their development, and in some cases, genetic testing may be performed on the embryos. The best quality embryos are selected for transfer or freezing.

6Selected embryos are transferred into the uterus through a thin catheter inserted through the cervix. This is usually a painless procedure that doesn't require anesthesia.

Typically, 1-2 embryos are transferred, with any additional high-quality embryos potentially frozen for future use. The transfer is guided by ultrasound for precision.

7About 10-14 days after embryo transfer, a blood test (beta hCG test) is performed to determine if implantation has occurred and pregnancy has been achieved.

This test measures the level of human chorionic gonadotropin hormone, which is produced during pregnancy. A positive test is followed by additional tests to confirm progression.

8If the pregnancy test is positive, follow-up appointments and ultrasounds will be scheduled to monitor the pregnancy's progress and ensure everything is developing normally.

Continued care will be provided until the patient transitions to a regular obstetrician, usually around 8-12 weeks of pregnancy. Additional support may include hormonal supplementation.