IVF Process Step by Step: What to Expect

IVF (in vitro fertilisation) is a treatment in which eggs are fertilised with sperm in a laboratory and the resulting embryo is placed in the womb. A full cycle usually takes about 3 to 6 weeks, according to the NHS.

Knowing each step in advance makes the process less frightening. This guide walks through what happens, how it may feel, the risks, and when to call your clinic. Every plan is individual, so your own doctor’s schedule always comes first.

Who is IVF for?

The NHS explains that IVF is usually considered when other fertility treatments have not worked, or when the cause of infertility makes it the best choice. For example, badly blocked fallopian tubes can make IVF the main option; read about this in our guide to tubal blockage and the HSG test. To compare it with a simpler treatment, see IUI vs IVF.

The NHS also notes that outcomes depend on the cause of infertility, age, body mass index and lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol. For this reason, doctors ask about your health, run tests on both partners and set up a plan before starting.

Step 1: Preparing and suppressing the natural cycle

In the long protocol described by the NHS, you first use a daily injection or nasal spray for around 2 to 3 weeks. This temporarily switches off your natural egg production so that the doctor can control the cycle. A scan checks that it is working. Clinics also use other protocols, so guidelines vary; ask your doctor which one is planned for you.

Step 2: Stimulating the ovaries

Next, daily injections of fertility medicine encourage the ovaries to make more eggs than usual. The NHS says this lasts about 2 weeks. You will have blood tests or ultrasound scans during this time to see how your ovaries respond, and the dose may be adjusted. Your doctor will teach you how to give the injections.

• Expect frequent clinic visits for scans.
• Ask your doctor which side effects are common with your medicines.
• Tell the clinic about any severe pain or swelling.

Tip: Keep a small diary of injection times, scan dates and symptoms. It helps you stay organised and gives you something concrete to show the doctor.

Step 3: Egg collection

When the eggs are ready, a doctor collects them using a thin needle passed through the vagina. According to the NHS this takes around 20 minutes, and you may be offered a sedative to make you sleepy. Arrange for someone to go with you and take you home. Ask your clinic what to expect afterwards and which symptoms need a call.

Step 4: The sperm sample

The male partner usually gives a fresh sample on the same day, in a private room, as the NHS explains. If donor sperm is used, it is prepared in the laboratory beforehand. If the male partner finds it hard to give a sample, tell the clinic early so they can help.

Step 5: Fertilisation in the laboratory

The eggs and sperm are brought together in the laboratory. The clinic usually calls the next day to tell you how many embryos have formed and how many may be suitable for use. Not every egg fertilises or develops into a usable embryo, so the numbers can change from day to day. Your doctor will explain what they mean for you.

Step 6: Embryo transfer

A few days later, the embryo is placed in the womb through a thin tube passed through the vagina. The NHS describes placing one embryo in the womb, and if more than one is considered your doctor will explain the risks and benefits, because carrying twins or more raises risks for you and the babies.

Spare good-quality embryos may be frozen for later use. Ask your clinic how long they can be stored and what consent is needed.

Step 7: The two-week wait

The NHS says a pregnancy test is normally planned about 16 days after the transfer. Do the test on the date you are given, because testing too early can give a misleading result. If it is positive, a scan around 7 weeks confirms the pregnancy and heartbeat. Continue regular antenatal care; our guide to antenatal care explains what comes next.

This wait is often the hardest part. Plan gentle activities, rest, and lean on supportive friends or family. If the result is negative, take time to recover and ask your doctor for a follow-up discussion about the next steps.

Risks and side effects

The NHS says IVF is generally safe and most people do not have problems with their health or pregnancy. The possible risks include:

• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS): a small chance that the ovaries respond too strongly and become large and painful.
• Multiple pregnancy: more than one baby carries added risks for mother and babies.
• Ectopic pregnancy: an embryo implanting outside the womb. See ectopic pregnancy symptoms.
• Emotional strain: IVF can affect you emotionally and physically, and counselling or a support group can help.

When to be cautious: Do not ignore pain, rapid bloating or breathlessness during or after treatment. These can be signs of OHSS or an ectopic pregnancy and need prompt medical help.

When to call your clinic or seek urgent care

The NHS advises contacting your clinic or urgent medical care without delay if you have:

• Pain and bloating in the tummy, with nausea or vomiting
• Feeling faint
• Vaginal bleeding or brown watery discharge
• Pain or discomfort when passing urine or stool

Go to an emergency department immediately for difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe thirst with very little urine, swelling in any part of the body, one-sided lower tummy pain or pain in the tip of the shoulder. Do not drive yourself. Our emergency and critical care speciality offers 24/7 emergency obstetric support, and you can see the emergency page.

Practical tips for coping

• Attend appointments together when you can.
• Ask what each medicine is for and what to do if you miss a dose.
• Limit searching online for stories; every case is different.
• Keep healthy habits. Our lifestyle tips for fertility are a good starting point.
• Seek counselling if you feel low, anxious or stuck.

The infertility and reproductive care speciality at Chaitanya Hospital includes IUI, IVF and fertility counselling.

Talk to a doctor

If you have questions about IVF or other fertility treatment, you are welcome to book an appointment or call +91 944 103 0587. Chaitanya Hospital is in Kadapa, near RTC Bus Stand, Simhapuri Colony, and teleconsultation is also available. This article is for general awareness and is not a substitute for a doctor's advice.