Introduction

Starting an IVF journey can feel overwhelming, filled with questions, emotions, and hopes. IVF stands for In Vitro Fertilisation. It is a widely used assisted reproductive technology (ART). In this process, an egg is fertilised with sperm outside the body in a laboratory, and then the resulting embryo is transferred to the uterus.
In simple words, the IVF process helps couples conceive when natural methods don't work, due to fertility challenges or age-related factors.

At Pratap IVF, we believe that informed decisions make the path easier and more empowering. Whether you're just beginning to explore IVF meaning or preparing for your first IVF appointment, this article is your one-stop roadmap.

Let's understand the process, step by step.

1. The First IVF Appointment

During your first visit, the fertility specialist will sit down with you to understand your medical background, lifestyle, and concerns. This is done to find out the root cause of infertility, which could be due to ovulation issues, blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count, age, or other unexplained reasons. You'll likely undergo:

• Blood tests to check hormone levels
• Pelvic ultrasound to assess the ovaries and uterus
• Semen analysis (for male partners)
• Review of your past reports or treatments (if any)

2. Ovarian Stimulation

Natural cycles release one egg a month, but IVF increases the chances of success by maturing multiple eggs in one go. You'll have to start taking hormonal injections (usually daily) for 8-12 days to stimulate the ovaries. These injections are generally self-administered and well-tolerated. You'll also need regular blood tests to monitor hormone levels and ultrasounds to track the growth of ovarian follicles. This is done to grow 10-15 mature eggs safely. The fertility doctors will guide you at every step and ensure that your body responds optimally, without any discomfort.

3. Egg Retrieval

Once the eggs are mature, it's time for retrieval. This is a minor, outpatient procedure done under mild anaesthesia and takes about 20-30 minutes. A thin needle is passed through the vaginal wall to reach the ovaries, and the follicles are aspirated, then the eggs are collected.
And you'll rest for a few hours post-procedure, and most patients resume normal activites the next day. While some might feel a little bloated or tired and it's usually short-lived. Meanwhile, a semen sample is collected from the male partner or a donor sample on the same day.

4. Fertilisation & Embryo Development (Day 14-18)

The collected eggs are fertilised with sperm in a high-tech laboratory. There are two ways this can be done:

• Conventional IVF: Eggs and sperm are placed together to fertilise naturally
• ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): A single sperm is injected directly into each egg (recommended for male infertility)

After fertilisation, the lab team monitors the embryos for 3 to 5 days, observing how they divide and develop. At Pratap IVF, our embryologists use strict grading systems to identify the healthiest embryos. In some cases, genetic testing (PGT) is done to ensure only chromosomally normal embryos are transferred, especially if there's a history of miscarriages or genetic disorders.

5. Embryo Transfer (Day 17-20)

This is a simple, painless procedure, no anaesthesia, no stitches. Here's what happens:

• The best-quality embryos are selected
• A thin catheter is inserted into the uterus via the cervix
• The embryo is gently placed into the uterine lining.

The entire process takes about 10-15 minutes. You may rest for a short while and resume your routine soon after. At this point, the doctor will prescribe progesterone to support the uterine lining and help implantation. Some patients opt for a frozen embryo transfer (FET) instead, where the embryo is frozen and transferred in a later cycle for better uterine preparation.

6. The Two-Week Wait

This is emotionally the most challenging part of the IVF journey. Even though it's called a "two-week" wait, it can feel much longer. You're advised to stay calm and avoid stress while continuing the prescribed medications. Also, you must avoid heavy workouts or travel.

Around Day 14, a beta hCG blood test is done to confirm pregnancy. If it's positive, congratulations! You'll be called in for your first pregnancy scan in the following weeks. If not, your doctor will counsel you gently and offer options like repeating the cycle, trying a frozen embryo, or exploring other routes like IVF and surrogacy, depending on your case.

Conclusion

The IVF journey is filled with questions. But every answer brings you closer to clarity, and every step brings you closer to hope. At Pratap IVF, our goal isn't just conception, it's care. We combine cutting-edge technology with a human approach. Whether you're considering IVF for the first time or exploring advanced options like egg freezing or donor programs, Pratap IVF is here to help.
And yes, we understand that one of your biggest concerns is the in vitro fertilisation price. That's why we ensure transparent pricing and affordable packages so that costs can never stand in the way of your dream.

Let Pratap IVF be your trusted partner on this path!

Book your IVF appointment today and take the first step toward parenthood.

FAQs

1. How long does IVF take from start to finish?

A complete IVF cycle usually takes 4 to 6 weeks, starting from the initial consultation to the pregnancy test. If you opt for a frozen embryo transfer or need additional tests, the timeline may extend slightly.

2. What are IVF success stories in India like?

There are countless IVF success stories in India, including couples who conceived after years of trying, women over 40 becoming first-time mothers, and even successful twin pregnancies. Clinics like Pratap IVF have played a significant role in bringing these stories to life with advanced techniques and expert care.

3. What role does age play in IVF success?

Age is one of the most crucial factors in IVF. As women age, egg quality and quantity decrease. Most IVF specialists recommend starting treatment before 40 for higher success rates. However, with egg donation, even women in their late 40s or postmenopausal can conceive successfully.

4. Is IVF the best option for all fertility issues?

Not always. While IVF fertility treatment is highly effective, some cases may benefit from less invasive options like IUI or hormonal therapy. Your fertility specialist will recommend the best approach based on test results and diagnosis.

5. Can I choose between IVF and surrogacy?

Yes, if you're medically unable to carry a pregnancy, due to uterine conditions, repeated miscarriages, or other health issues, your doctor may suggest IVF and surrogacy as the best route. Both options are available at Pratap IVF with complete legal and emotional support.

6. Is Pratap IVF considered one of the best IVF hospitals?

Pratap IVF is recognised as one of the best IVF hospitals in Udaipur for its success rates, ethical practices, modern lab infrastructure, and compassionate patient care. We're trusted by patients from all over India and even abroad.

7. What should I expect emotionally during the IVF process?

IVF can be an emotional rollercoaster. Hope, anxiety, and uncertainty are natural. At Pratap IVF, we offer not just clinical care but emotional support and counselling, so you're never alone in your journey toward parenthood.