Is IVF Treatment Painful?

Is IVF Painful? What to Expect and How to Manage Discomfort

IVF can be a life-changing journey, but it's natural to wonder about the discomfort involved. In this blog, we'll explore what to expect during the IVF process, including common concerns about pain, and provide tips on managing any discomfort effectively.

What is IVF?

IVF-In Vitro Fertilization, just like name suggests, is a process of fertilization of the egg with the sperm in a laboratory set up. (in-vitro).

The surgeon collects the mature eggs from the woman and then fuses them with the sperms from the male donor as a part of the process here. After the fertilization, the embryo is placed inside the uterus of the female.

Who Should Opt for an IVF?

People who are facing infertility issues or those who cannot have a baby naturally can opt for this procedure. People who are facing the below issues are recommended to get an IVF,

• Blocked fallopian tubes: When both fallopian tubes are blocked or damaged, the eggs cannot travel naturally from the ovaries to the uterus. In these situations, IVF can help.
• Ovulation disorders: If a woman does not ovulate regularly, fewer eggs are available to be fertilized. In these cases, IVF will help to retrieve the healthy eggs to get fertilized.
• Endometriosis: When the tissues similar to the lining of the uterus grow outside the uterus, it can affect the fallopian tubes, ovaries, or uterus. IVF will help to overcome these cases.
• Uterine fibroids: Fibroids are non-cancerous growths. Fibroids in the uterus can make it harder for an egg to get implanted. IVF might help increase chances of pregnancy.
• Previous tubal ligation: If a woman had surgery that led to a blockage of the fallopian tube, IVF can help her conceive by retrieving the egg and fertilizing it outside.
• Sperm issues: Low sperm count or abnormal sperm movement, shape can make it difficult to conceive naturally.
• Cancer treatments: If cancer treatment like chemotherapy might affect fertility, then people can opt for IVF to preserve the eggs for the future.

Is IVF a Painful Procedure?

IVF as a procedure although is mildly painful, the degree of pain depends from person to person based on their pain tolerance, anaesthesia etc.

The egg stimulation part involves administration of fertility drugs which can cause little discomfort for the patients.

The surgeon will ensure that very little pain is felt by the patient by providing with pain management strategies.

While giving the injections, the surgeons use smaller needles and applying ice or topical anaesthesia to lessen the pain.

Is Egg Retrieval for IVF Painful?

Egg retrieval involves a minor surgery wherein the surgeon uses a thin needle inserted through the vagina to collect the mature eggs. This entire process occurs while the patient is under anaesthesia. The patient will not feel much pain. A mild discomfort may be felt.

Post the retrieval, women may feel mild cramps and pressure similar to the one's felt during menstruation. But these go away in a day or two.

Is Embryo Transfer Painful?

Embryo transfer is a quick and minimally invasive procedure. The patient is usually not given any anaesthesia. A catheter is used to transfer the embryo and place it in the uterine walls through the vagina.

Some women do experience mild discomfort during the process although it is nothing to worry about. Post the implantations, women sometimes feel pelvic discomfort and pressure which is similar to menstruation cramps. These subside within a short time.

How to Manage the Pain During the IVF Process?

To manage pain during the IVF process, following can be done,

• Healthcare team: It is advised to discuss any concerns or discomfort with the healthcare team. They can provide guidance and suggest personalised pain relief strategies.
• Medications: Follow the instructions provided by the healthcare provider when administering fertility medications to avoid any discomfort.
• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage mild pain or cramping.
• Relaxation techniques: Practicing deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle yoga can help to reduce stress and keep the person relaxed throughout the process.
• Emotional support: Talking to one's partner, loved ones, or support groups for emotional support during the IVF process can help to relax.
• Self-care: Engaging in activities that help to relax, reduce stress, and focus on one's well-being throughout the IVF journey will help a lot.

How is IVF Procedure Performed?

IVF is a procedure which occurs in multiple steps as mentioned below

• Stimulation
  The woman is given medications known as fertility drugs which help to increase the production of eggs. Under normal conditions, a woman releases one egg per month, but these medicines help the ovaries produce several eggs. Regular ultrasounds and blood tests check how the ovaries are responding.
• Egg Retrieval
  The step involves a minor surgery which is done to collect the eggs. Under the guidance of an ultrasound, the doctor inserts a needle through the vagina into the ovaries to remove the eggs. This is usually a quick procedure and the patient will have mild cramping after the surgery.
• Insemination and Fertilization
  The collected eggs are mixed with sperm in a controlled lab setting. If it looks like fertilization is unlikely then the sperm may be injected directly into the egg.
• Embryo Culture
  Once the eggs are fertilized, they become embryos. These embryos are monitored to ensure they are growing properly. In some cases, embryos are tested for genetic disorders before transfer.
• Embryo Transfer
  The healthy embryos are placed in the woman's uterus using a thin tube. If an embryo successfully implants, pregnancy occurs. Sometimes, more than one embryo is transferred, increasing the chance of twins or more.

What are the Benefits of an IVF?

• High success rate: IVF increases the chances of getting pregnant, even for women over 30. It is the most successful treatment for infertility, as only the healthy eggs are used.
• Both men and women: IVF works for various causes of infertility, like ovulation problems, low sperm count, or blocked fallopian tubes. It therefore helps both men and women with fertility issues.
• Reduces miscarriage risk: IVF can test embryos for genetic issues through Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), this ensures that miscarriages are reduced.
• Open to everyone: IVF is an option for same-sex couples, infertile couples, and single people. It offers the chance to have a child using donor sperm, eggs, or a surrogate.
• Donor eggs or sperm: People with fertility issues or health conditions can use donor eggs or sperm to become parents through IVF.
• Right time: IVF allows people to preserve eggs and sperm for later use, making it easier to have children when the couple is ready, even after focusing on education or career.
• Healthy baby: PGT can test embryos for genetic conditions, increasing the chances of a healthy baby.

Why Choose Aksigen for the Best IVF Treatment?

By taking care of both physical and emotional well-being, the IVF process can be made more comfortable and less stressful.Aksigen IVF, believes the journey to parenthood is personal, and supports at every step of the way.

They specialise in gentle, minimally invasive IVF techniques that focus on both physical and emotional well-being. The team offers personalised care using the latest advancements in fertility science.

With a team of leading gynaecologists and fertility experts, individualised treatment plans are designed based on the latest research. Honest pricing with no hidden costs, is ensured by the clinic.

At Aksigen, patient's receive specialised guidance at every step. With a goal to make the IVF journey smooth and comforting, the clinic offers a welcoming and inclusive environment.