Frequently Asked Questions About IVF

An IVF cycle typically lasts 6-8 weeks. The process includes ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, and embryo transfer. Then comes the hardest part—waiting. A pregnancy test is done about 10-12 days after the transfer, marking the moment you finally get answers.

IVF is generally safe, but like any medical treatment, it comes with some risks:

• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): A rare but serious condition where the ovaries swell, and fluid builds up in the abdomen. Careful monitoring helps prevent this.
• Multiple Births: IVF has a higher chance of twins or more, but transferring a single embryo (when possible) reduces this risk.
• Pregnancy Complications: As with all pregnancies, risks include high blood pressure and premature birth, which doctors closely monitor.

IVF success depends on many factors, including egg and sperm quality, hormone levels, and overall reproductive health. While age can play a role, advances in fertility treatment provide options for a wide range of patients. Your doctor will assess your individual profile and develop a personalized strategy to optimize your chances of success

Even with the best medical care, IVF isn’t always successful. Possible reasons include:

• Egg quality isn’t always optimal
• Embryo quality issues (not all embryos develop properly)
• Uterine factors (such as polyps or an unresponsive endometrium)
• Chromosomal abnormalities (which can prevent implantation)

If a cycle doesn’t work, it can feel devastating—but it’s not the end of the road. Doctors analyze what happened and adjust the plan for future cycles.

There used to be more of a risk of multiples. Because single embryo transfer (SET) is the platinum standard today, that is no longer the case. By transferring just one high-quality embryo, we lower the chances of multiples while maintaining high success rates.

While some studies suggest a slightly higher risk of birth defects, the vast majority of IVF babies are born healthy. The slight increase may be due more to underlying fertility issues than the IVF process itself. Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) can help reduce risks by screening embryos for chromosomal abnormalities before transfer.

Mostly yes—but with a few caveats. Before egg retrieval, partners should abstain for 3-5 days to ensure a strong sperm sample. After retrieval, the ovaries may be enlarged and tender, making intercourse uncomfortable. Always check with your doctor for specific guidelines.

As your ovaries grow larger, certain activities can increase the risk of ovarian torsion (twisting of the ovary, which is a medical emergency). To stay safe:

• Avoid high-impact exercises (like running or intense weightlifting)
• Choose low-impact activities (like walking or gentle yoga)

Short trips? Usually fine. Long-haul flights? Best to wait. Avoid extended travel right after the transfer to minimize stress and give your embryo the best possible environment to implant.

We recommend avoiding alcohol during your IVF cycle. Alcohol can interfere with egg quality, embryo development, and implantation.

Some medications, like Tylenol and doctor-prescribed antibiotics, are generally safe. However, avoid:

• Aspirin & ibuprofen (unless prescribed)
• Certain herbal supplements

Always check with your doctor before taking any medication during your cycle.

Absolutely. Men have treatment options too. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)—a procedure where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg—has revolutionized male infertility treatment. If sperm count or motility is an issue, ICSI significantly improves the chances of fertilization.

IVF is often the better option, especially if a tubal reversal isn’t successful or feasible. With IVF, the fallopian tubes aren’t needed since fertilization happens in the lab. Our fertility specialists can help you weigh the options.

Sometimes, cycles are canceled if:

• The follicles aren’t growing properly
• Hormone levels aren’t ideal
• There’s a low response to medication

A canceled cycle is frustrating, but it’s not wasted—it provides valuable information to adjust for a better outcome next time.

PGT is an advanced test performed on embryos before transfer to screen for genetic abnormalities. There are two main types:

• PGT: a way to learn more about the health of an embryo before it’s transferred.
• PGT-M: Tests for inherited genetic diseases when there’s a known family history.

PGT helps increase implantation rates and reduce miscarriage risks.

If a cycle doesn’t result in pregnancy, it’s natural to feel disappointed—but options still exist. Potential next steps include:

• Trying another cycle with adjustments (different meds, lab techniques, or embryo selection)
• Using donor eggs, sperm, or embryos
• Exploring alternative family-building options

Each journey is unique, and the right choice depends on your personal goals and medical factors.

Our goal is to maximize success while minimizing risk. For many patients, a single embryo transfer (SET) offers the best balance of safety and effectiveness. Your doctor will help you decide based on your situation.

Embryologists evaluate embryos based on:

• Cell development (how the embryo grows)
• Appearance (cell symmetry and structure)
• Genetic health (via PGT testing)

The best-quality embryos have the highest chances of implantation, leading to a successful pregnancy.