In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in Russia

 In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the most effective methods of treating infertility. In Russia, this procedure is performed in specialized clinics and reproductive medicine centers, providing couples who face difficulties with natural conception the chance to have a child.

When is IVF indicated?

 In vitro fertilization is applied when other infertility treatments have not been successful. Indications can vary depending on the causes of infertility and the health status of the partners.

Causes of Infertility in Women

Infertility in women can be caused by many factors, including:

• Hormonal disorders
  
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  
• Blockage or damage to the fallopian tubes
  
• Endometriosis
  
• Immune system disorders 
• Age over 35 years
  
  

Causes of Infertility in Men

 Male infertility can also have various causes, including:

• Poor sperm quality
  
  
•  Premature aging
  
  
• Problems with the patency of the spermatic ducts
  
  
• Hormonal disorders
  
  
•  Infectious diseases
  
  
• Obesity and an unhealthy lifestyle
  
  

When conception problems are serious and long-term, IVF becomes an effective solution for couples to overcome these obstacles and achieve the desired result — pregnancy.

Stages of the IVF Procedure

 The IVF procedure involves several consecutive stages, each of which requires careful preparation and monitoring for a successful outcome.

Preparation for IVF

At this stage, a thorough examination is important to ensure there are no contraindications for the procedure. The woman must undergo tests to check her hormonal profile, the condition of her reproductive organs, and to rule out infectious diseases. The partner is also examined to evaluate sperm quality. Both partners may be referred for genetic counseling to exclude potential hereditary diseases. Additionally, it is essential to bring the body to an optimal state: normalize diet, quit smoking and alcohol consumption, and start taking folic acid.

Ovarian Stimulation

 Ovarian stimulation is performed to create several mature eggs for fertilization. The woman is prescribed hormonal medications that stimulate the growth of follicles in the ovaries. This process typically lasts 10-14 days, during which the woman undergoes regular ultrasounds and blood tests to monitor follicle development. At this stage, it is crucial to strictly follow the prescribed medication dosage to avoid ovarian hyperstimulation.

Egg Retrieval

 When the follicles reach the desired size, egg retrieval is performed under general or local anesthesia with ultrasound guidance. The procedure takes about 15-20 minutes and is minimally invasive. The doctor inserts a thin needle through the vaginal wall into the ovaries to collect mature eggs. After retrieval, the eggs are sent to the laboratory for fertilization.

Fertilization

After the eggs are retrieved, they are fertilized in the laboratory using the partner's sperm. In cases of material quality issues, the ICSI method (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) can be used, where a single sperm is injected directly into the egg. The fertilization process is monitored by an embryologist, who tracks the success of fertilization and the development of the embryos.

Embryo Transfer

 A few days after fertilization, the embryos begin to develop. The embryologist selects the highest quality embryos for transfer into the woman’s uterus. This usually takes place on the 3rd or 5th day after fertilization. The embryo transfer procedure is painless and does not require anesthesia. The embryos are introduced into the uterus through the cervix using a catheter. After the transfer, the woman remains at the clinic for a short observation period and can then return home.

Tests Before IVF

 Before undergoing IVF, a series of tests and examinations are necessary to assess the health of the woman and man, and to identify any contraindications or risks. Among the main tests for both partners are:

•  Hormone blood tests (FSH, LH, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, etc.) to assess ovarian function and hormonal balance
  
  
• Pelvic ultrasound to assess the condition of the uterus, ovaries, and detect cysts, fibroids, or other anomalies
  
  
• Sperm analysis (for men) to assess sperm quality: motility, concentration, morphology
  
  
•  Infection tests (chlamydia, gonorrhea, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, HIV, hepatitis, syphilis, cytomegalovirus, etc.), which may affect the success of the procedure
  
  
• Genetic testing to identify hereditary diseases or the risk of passing them on to the child
  
  
• Endometrial biopsy (when indicated) to assess the condition of the uterine lining and evaluate the possibility of embryo implantation
  
  

Indications and Contraindications for IVF

 Indications and contraindications for IVF are selected individually based on all medical factors, the health of the woman and her partner.

Indications:

• Unexplained infertility: When the cause of infertility is not identified, but other treatments have not worked
  
  
• Blockage or damage to the fallopian tubes: In cases of tubal infertility
  
  
• Male infertility: In cases of poor sperm quality — low sperm motility, low sperm count, or morphological defects
  
  
•  Miscarriage: When a woman loses pregnancy early due to immunological or other factors
  
  
• Age of the woman: If the woman is over 35 and natural conception is not possible
  
  
• Genetic diseases: To prevent the transmission of hereditary diseases to the child, when there are genetic anomalies in the family
  
  

Contraindications:

•  Severe illnesses (oncology, cardiovascular diseases, liver or kidney diseases) that could worsen the overall health and lead to complications during pregnancy
  
  
•  Severely reduced reproductive function in women, where the ovaries cannot produce healthy eggs (ovarian exhaustion)
  
  
•  Uncontrolled infectious diseases that may affect the outcome of the procedure
  
  
•  Inability to undergo preparation or complete the IVF stages (e.g., due to anatomical features of the uterus, severe hormonal disorders, etc.)
  
  

Effectiveness and Success Rate of IVF

 The effectiveness of IVF depends on several factors, such as the patient’s age, causes of infertility, egg and sperm quality, and the experience of the clinic and doctor. On average, the success rate ranges from 30% to 50% depending on the woman’s age. Women under 35 have higher success rates, while the likelihood decreases significantly after age 40.

The success of IVF also depends on:

• Embryo quality: The number and quality of mature embryos selected for transfer
  
  
• Uterine condition: The presence of fibroids or polyps can reduce the chances of successful implantation
  
  
•  Use of donor eggs or sperm: This can significantly increase the likelihood of success if one partner has reproductive issues
  
  
• Number of IVF cycles performed: In some cases, multiple IVF cycles may be needed to achieve pregnancy
  
  

Thus, the chances of success can be significantly increased when patients turn to experienced specialists. For a comfortable and effective IVF experience in Russia, the MARUS platform offers assistance in selecting clinics, doctors, and organizing the treatment process, ensuring an individual approach and support at every stage.