Who is Suitable for In Vitro Fertilization Treatment?
In vitro fertilization treatment (IVF – In Vitro Fertilization) is one of the most effective assisted reproductive techniques applied to couples who cannot have children naturally. This method, which increases the couple’s chance of pregnancy, involves the fertilization of egg and sperm cells in a laboratory environment. In this article, we will discuss in which cases in vitro fertilization treatment is recommended, who it is suitable for, and the factors that affect the success of the treatment.
What is In Vitro Fertilization Treatment?
In vitro fertilization treatment is a treatment method performed by combining mature eggs taken from the woman’s ovaries with sperm cells taken from the man in a laboratory environment and transferring the fertilized embryos to the woman’s uterus. This method was developed to help couples experiencing various infertility problems.
Who is Suitable for In Vitro Fertilization Treatment?
In vitro fertilization treatment is suitable for couples who cannot achieve pregnancy naturally due to certain medical conditions. Below are the conditions and causes of infertility where IVF treatment is particularly recommended:
1. Damage or Blockage in Fallopian Tubes
The fallopian tubes play an important role in transporting the egg from the ovary to the uterus. However, if the tubes are blocked or damaged, it makes it difficult for the egg to reach the sperm and fertilize. In this case, IVF treatment is one of the most suitable options. IVF treatment can be effective, especially for women whose tubes are tied or blocked.
2. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a disease characterized by the growth of the endometrium outside the uterus. Endometriosis can cause adhesions in the ovaries and fallopian tubes, making natural pregnancy difficult. IVF treatment can increase the chance of pregnancy for women with this condition.
3. Sperm Problems in Men
Male infertility can occur due to problems such as low sperm count, motility, or abnormalities in sperm morphology. In IVF treatment, eggs are fertilized with high-quality sperm cells selected in a laboratory environment. IVF treatment can yield successful results, especially in men with severe sperm problems.
4. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovary syndrome manifests itself with the formation of numerous cysts in the ovaries and hormonal imbalances. This condition can cause irregular or no ovulation. IVF treatment can be used successfully in women with PCOS when regular ovulation is not achieved.
5. Unexplained Infertility
In some couples, all tests give normal results, but pregnancy is still not achieved. This condition is called unexplained infertility. IVF treatment can be recommended for these couples as well, because if other treatment methods have not yielded results, IVF can increase the chance of success.
6. Older Women
As women age, their ovarian reserve decreases and the quality of the eggs decreases. IVF treatment is generally recommended for women over the age of 35 when the chance of natural pregnancy is low. This treatment is an important option, especially for women with reduced ovarian reserve.
7. Women with Low Ovarian Reserve
Ovarian reserve refers to the number of eggs a woman has. In some women, despite their young age, their ovarian reserve may be low. In this case, the eggs obtained through IVF treatment can be fertilized in a laboratory environment to increase the chance of pregnancy.
8. Failure of Treatments Other Than IVF
IVF treatment can be the next step for couples who cannot achieve pregnancy with other reproductive treatment methods such as insemination. For couples who cannot get results from IUI or other treatment methods, IVF can significantly increase the chance of success.
9. For the Detection of Genetic Diseases
Some couples may be carriers of genetic diseases. In IVF treatment, embryos can be subjected to genetic tests to ensure that healthy embryos are selected. This process is an important advantage for couples who want to minimize the risk of genetic diseases.
Factors Affecting Success in IVF Treatment
There are many factors affecting the success of IVF treatment. Success rates may vary from person to person and depend on the following factors:
Age of the Woman: Success rates are generally higher in younger women. While success rates can be around 40-50% in women under the age of 35, these rates decrease as age increases.
Ovarian Reserve: Since more mature eggs can be obtained in women with good ovarian reserve, the chance of treatment increases.
Sperm Quality: In men, sperm count, motility and quality are factors that directly affect success.
General Health Status of the Couple Receiving Treatment: If couples maintain a healthy lifestyle, it can increase the chance of success. Factors such as not smoking, having a balanced diet and stress management are also important.
IVF treatment is a promising solution for many couples experiencing infertility problems üm offers. The treatment is suitable for depends on the couple’s medical history and the specific problems they are experiencing. IVF treatment can provide successful results in cases such as blocked fallopian tubes, sperm quality problems, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome and unexplained infertility. It is also an important treatment method for older women and couples at risk of genetic diseases. Since each couple’s situation is different, it is important to have a detailed evaluation with a specialist before deciding on IVF treatment.