What is IVF? Complete Process Explained Step-By-Step

Thinking about IVF to have a baby? It can feel scary, emotional, and even a bit confusing. That’s okay, you’re not the only one. Many people feel the same way. This guide is here to help. It will walk you through one big part of IVF – those daily injections.

Yes, the shots. They sound tough. But once you know what they do and how they help, it all starts to feel a bit easier. Let’s break it down – Step by step.

What is IVF? 

IVF stands for In Vitro Fertilisation. That means your egg and your partner’s sperm are joined outside your body. In a lab. Later, a tiny embryo is put into your womb. That’s how IVF works.

Here’s what usually happens:

Step 1: Check-Up

First, your doctor runs some tests. Maybe a blood test or an ultrasound. This checks how your hormones and ovaries are doing.

Step 2: Start The Shots

You begin daily hormone shots. These help your body grow more eggs. Normally, you only release one. But for IVF, more eggs are better.

Step 3: Regular Visits

You’ll go to the clinic often. Doctors will check how your body is reacting. They’ll do scans and more blood work.

Step 4: Trigger Time

When your eggs are ready, you get a final shot. This one is called the trigger. It tells your body to finish growing the eggs.

Step 5: Egg Pick-Up

Your eggs are gently removed. This happens during a short procedure. You’ll be sleepy but not in pain.

Step 6: Fertilisation

The eggs are stirred together with sperm in the lab. When done rightfully, some healthy embryos begin to grow.

Step 7: Implantation of The Embryo

The best one that is in a healthy condition is delicately inserted into your uterus. It is a run-of-the-mill and fast process.

Step 8: The Wait

You then do a pregnancy test after 10 to 14 days. This reflects whether it has worked.

Why are IVF Injections So Important?

A very significant aspect of IVF is these injections. In their absence, your body would only increase your chances of success by producing only one egg.

Here’s what the shots help with:

• They help you grow more eggs.
  
• They control when your body releases the eggs.
  
• They help your womb get ready for the embryo.
  

More eggs = more chances to get pregnant.

What’s Inside These Shots?

Most IVF injections contain special hormones. These are the common ones:

• FSH – Helps grow many eggs.
  
• LH – Helps eggs grow strong.
  
• hCG – The final shot before egg retrieval. It finishes the egg’s growth.
  

Other meds may be added. Some stop early ovulation. Others help your uterus stay strong after embryo transfer.

How to Get Ready for IVF Injections?

1. Ask Your Doctor Everything

Your doctor will make a plan just for you. It includes dates, times, and doses. Ask questions if you’re unsure. Understanding the plan helps you feel calm.

2. Learn The Technique

A nurse will show you how to do the shot. You’ll learn how to clean your skin, hold the needle, and inject. Most people inject in the belly or thigh.

3. Set a Routine

Some injections must be taken at the same time each day. Set a phone reminder. Write it on a sticky note. Timing is super important.

4. Some Side Effects Should be Expected

You can experience bloating, be in a bad mood, or experience soreness, and this is completely normal. Take as much water as you can, go for a leisurely walk, rest, and pamper your body.

5. Tend to Your Mind

IVF is difficult, especially emotionally. It is alright to cry or become overwhelmed. Discuss with your partner, join a support group, or consult a therapist. You are not alone in going through it.

To know more about IVF care and support, you can visit our website, Pozitiv Fertility Clinic, and follow us on Instagram.

What to Expect During Injections

• For about 10–12 days, you’ll give yourself shots every day. One or two a day. 
• At the same time, you’ll go to the clinic centre often. They’ll check if the meds are working.
• Once the eggs are ready, you get the trigger shot.
• Then, after about 36 hours, your eggs are collected.
• Next comes fertilisation in the lab. Then, embryo transfer. And then,  the long wait.

Tips to Make it Easier

• Use an ice pack before and after.
  
• Sit or lie down if you feel shaky.
  
• Ask someone to help you.
  
• Keep all your supplies in one place.
  
• Talk kindly to yourself: “I’ve got this.”
  

Final Thoughts

IVF shots can be tough at first. The first few days might feel scary. But many women say it gets easier. It slowly becomes part of your day. Take one step at a time. Ask someone for help if you need it. Share how you feel. Don’t forget—your heart matters too.

Still looking for a clinic? Try Positive Fertility Centre. The team there is kind and knows what they’re doing. They’ll guide you with care and listen to you. You’re not just a patient. You’re someone with a dream. And they truly understand that.

When you’re ready to learn more about unexplained infertility, visit our article — Unexplained Infertility.