In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Choosing to pursue IVF is a big decision—one that takes courage, reflection, and hope. Whether you’ve been trying for a while, have a known medical diagnosis, or are building your family through donor assistance, IVF may be the right next step. You don’t have to navigate it alone—we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
What is IVF?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a process where eggs are fertilized by sperm outside the body in a lab setting. It’s the most effective form of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and has helped millions of people around the world grow their families.
Originally developed to help patients with blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, IVF is now used to treat a wide range of fertility challenges, including:
Endometriosis
Uterine fibroids
Male factor infertility
Unexplained infertility
Age-related fertility decline
Third-party reproduction (donor egg, embryo donation, gestational surrogacy)
What is IVF?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a process where eggs are fertilized by sperm outside the body in a lab setting. It’s the most effective form of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and has helped millions of people around the world grow their families.
Originally developed to help patients with blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, IVF is now used to treat a wide range of fertility challenges, including:
Endometriosis
Uterine fibroids
Male factor infertility
Unexplained infertility
Age-related fertility decline
Third-party reproduction (donor egg, embryo donation, gestational surrogacy)
The IVF process—
what to expect
IVF may sound complex, but we’ll guide you every step of the way. Here’s how the process works, broken down into four key phases:
Step 1: Ovarian stimulation
We’ll start by encouraging your ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs—rather than the single egg your body normally releases each month. You’ll take hormone medications for about 8–14 days, and we’ll monitor your progress with regular ultrasounds and bloodwork. The goal? To gently stimulate the ovaries and prepare your body for the next step.
Step 2: Egg retrieval & fertilization
When the eggs are ready, we’ll schedule your egg retrieval—an outpatient procedure done at our clinic under light sedation, so you’re comfortable and at ease. Our lab team then fertilizes the eggs with specially prepared sperm (from a partner or donor). We’ll monitor the fertilized eggs closely over the next 5–6 days to track their development into embryos.
Step 3: Embryo transfer
We’ll select the healthiest embryo(s) for transfer into your uterus. This quick, gentle procedure is done with a thin catheter and typically doesn’t require sedation. The embryo is placed with precision into the uterine lining, where we hope it will implant and grow into a healthy pregnancy. Any remaining embryos can be safely frozen for future use.
Step 4: Support & monitoring
After the transfer, we’ll continue to support you medically and emotionally. We’ll schedule a pregnancy test about 9–11 days later and adjust medications as needed to give the embryo the best chance to thrive. No matter the outcome, you’re never alone—our team is always here to support you.
What about Mini IVF?
For some patients, Minimal Stimulation IVF (Mini IVF) may be a gentler, more affordable option.
Mini IVF uses lower doses of medications than traditional IVF, which can reduce side effects, lower costs, and make the process feel more manageable for some. It’s a great option for patients who:
- Prefer to avoid high-dose fertility medications
- Have a medical condition that limits the use of certain medications
- Want a lower-cost alternative to traditional IVF
- Have a lower ovarian reserve and want to maximize egg quality without overstimulation
Mini IVF still follows the same core steps as a standard IVF cycle—egg retrieval, fertilization, and embryo transfer—but with fewer medications and less monitoring. While it’s not right for everyone, it can be a wonderful option for those seeking a simpler approach.
Your doctor will help you decide if Mini IVF is a good fit for you. We’re here to answer your questions and help you feel confident in every decision.
What about Mini IVF?
For some patients, Minimal Stimulation IVF (Mini IVF) may be a gentler, more affordable option.
Mini IVF uses lower doses of medications than traditional IVF, which can reduce side effects, lower costs, and make the process feel more manageable for some. It’s a great option for patients who:
- Prefer to avoid high-dose fertility medications
- Have a medical condition that limits the use of certain medications
- Want a lower-cost alternative to traditional IVF
- Have a lower ovarian reserve and want to maximize egg quality without overstimulation
Mini IVF still follows the same core steps as a standard IVF cycle—egg retrieval, fertilization, and embryo transfer—but with fewer medications and less monitoring. While it’s not right for everyone, it can be a wonderful option for those seeking a simpler approach.
Your doctor will help you decide if Mini IVF is a good fit for you. We’re here to answer your questions and help you feel confident in every decision.
Ready to take the next step?
IVF may feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Let’s talk about what’s best for you—and how we can support your journey.