IVF / Assisted Reproduction

The term Assisted Reproduction includes all methods used to assist a couple in conceiving and achieving pregnancy. It is an important tool of modern medicine that has helped many couples to start their own family. The purpose of assisted reproduction is to investigate the causes of infertility and then to select the appropriate method.

What are the factors that led to the choice of assisted reproduction?

Couples may experience infertility problems due to different factors, such as male or female infertility or a combination of both. In some cases, the cause of infertility is not identified (unexplained infertility).

What are assisted reproduction techniques?

• Ovulation monitoring: It includes ultrasound and ovulation tests, so that the couple can have sexual intercourse on the days with the highest chances of conception.
• Intravaginal insemination: This is the transfer of sperm inside the uterus. It is preceded by a special sperm treatment in a laboratory and an ultrasound monitoring of the woman’s ovulation.
• Natural IVF (natural cycle IVF): This is the technique of collecting and fertilizing the naturally selected egg, which a woman produces every month and is indicative for all age groups. This method does not involve medication.
• Modified IVF (natural modified IVF): The technique involves mild stimulation of the ovaries with very low doses of fertility medication for 2-3 days. It is used to physically support more than one egg, in order to improve the quality and enhance the number of embryos that will be produced.
• Ovarian stimulation: Ovarian stimulation with injectable medication to produce more and healthier eggs.

To whom is assisted reproduction indicated?

Assisted reproduction is aimed at couples who cannot conceive naturally after a long period of efforts. Couples where the woman is less than 35 years old and have been trying for more than a year should proceed to more specialized tests. In couples where the woman is older than 35 years, the period for such an option to be considered is 6 months. These criteria refer to couples who have not been diagnosed with a medical issue that affects fertility.

Depending on the cause that will be determined, the obstetrician-gynecologist will suggest the most appropriate technique and together with the couple they will develop the strategy that will be followed for their common goal, namely the conception and achievement of pregnancy.

For more information, contact the specialized obstetrician-gynecologist, Dr. Melina Stasinou, who after a personalized diagnosis will suggest you the best choice of assisted reproduction.