IVF fertility treatment in Iran
IVF in IRAN
Since its first successful application in 1978, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) has become the cornerstone for addressing various fertility disorders. In 1990, Iran celebrated the birth of its first IVF baby in Yazd, marking a significant milestone in the nation's medical history. Today, Iran stands as one of the global leaders in IVF, consistently achieving remarkable success rates.
With over three decades of dedicated research and practice in infertility treatment, Iran has emerged as a pioneer in this field. IRAN boasts more than 80 specialized infertility clinics spread across major cities such as Tehran, Urmia, Yazd, and Isfahan. These clinics are equipped with the latest technologies and staffed by highly skilled professionals, ensuring top-tier treatment quality.
Iran’s combination of high-quality care and affordable treatment costs has made it a preferred destination for medical tourists seeking solutions to their infertility challenges.
For detailed information about IVF in Iran and to explore your options, please feel free to contact us.
What is IVF?
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) that involves combining a man's sperm and a woman's egg in a laboratory dish, where fertilization takes place. Once fertilized, the egg begins to divide and develop into an embryo. The resulting embryo, or embryos, are then transferred to the woman’s uterus, where they can implant and develop naturally.
When is IVF Recommended?
IVF is now a widely used treatment for various causes of infertility, including:
How is IVF Done?
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is a widely used procedure designed to address various fertility issues. It involves a multi-step process that includes ovulation induction, egg retrieval, sperm collection and preparation, fertilization, embryo culture, and embryo transfer. Here are the five key steps of the IVF process:
1- Ovulation Induction
Fertility medications are prescribed to control the timing of egg maturation and to increase the chances of collecting multiple eggs during a woman's cycle. These drugs stimulate the growth of several eggs in the ovaries, as typically only one egg matures each month.
During IVF treatment, multiple eggs are necessary because not all eggs will fertilize or develop properly. Ovulation induction medications are typically started 8 to 14 days before menstruation. Regular visits to the doctor every two to three days are required to monitor the ovulation process. Depending on individual circumstances, the ovulation induction procedure usually takes between 10 to 20 days.
2- Egg Retrieval (Ovum Pick Up)
Following ovulation induction and the development of suitable oocytes, the eggs need to be retrieved for in vitro fertilization. Egg retrieval, or ovum pick up, is a day procedure performed in a hospital where eggs are collected from the ovaries.
An anesthetist will prepare you for general anesthesia. Using advanced ultrasound technology, your fertility specialist will guide a very thin needle through the upper vaginal wall into each ovary. The needle is used to remove fluid containing the eggs from the ovarian follicles. On average, 8 to 15 eggs are collected during this procedure, which typically takes less than 30 minutes.
3- Collection and Preparation of Sperm
The method of sperm collection depends on the condition of the male partner. If the man’s sexual health is normal, semen is collected naturally. However, if the man has azoospermia and cannot provide a sample naturally, a urologist will collect semen using methods such as PESA (Percutaneous Epidydimal Sperm Aspiration) under local anesthesia or TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction) under general anesthesia.
4- Fertilization and Embryo Culture
After egg retrieval, the embryologist examines the collected eggs to select mature ones suitable for fertilization.
The mature eggs are placed in a culture medium, and the sperm is transferred to an incubator for fertilization. In IVF, high-motility sperm naturally move toward the eggs and fertilize them, resulting in the formation of embryos.
In cases of low sperm count or poor sperm quality, the specialist may use Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). This is an additional step in the IVF process where a single sperm is injected directly into each egg to facilitate fertilization. If fertilization occurs, the resulting cells begin to divide and typically reach about 10 cells within three days. The embryos are then transferred to the uterus within 2 to 5 days after fertilization.
5- Embryo Transfer
Embryo transfer is the final step of the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process. About 2 to 3 days before the transfer, the doctor will select the best embryos to transfer to the uterus. In many cases, there are additional embryos remaining after an IVF cycle, which can be frozen or cryopreserved for future use.
The number of embryos transferred in each IVF cycle depends on factors such as the mother's age, the cause of infertility, and the ovaries' response to stimulation drugs during the treatment process. Typically, between 4 and 15 eggs are retrieved in each IVF cycle, and approximately 50% of these eggs develop into embryos in the laboratory. Usually, two embryos are transferred to the mother's uterus per cycle, while the remaining embryos are frozen for use in subsequent cycles.
Embryo transfer is a simple procedure that does not require anesthesia. The embryos are loaded into a soft catheter and placed in the uterine cavity through the cervix. The procedure is generally painless, although some women may experience mild cramping.
IVF Success Rate
Two weeks after the IVF procedure, a positive pregnancy test indicates a successful process. Studies show that women under 35 years old have over a 40% chance of pregnancy. However, as age increases, the likelihood of pregnancy decreases. IVF success rates are generally reported based on the woman’s age, as the chances of success decline with age.
Regardless of age, a couple’s lifestyle plays a crucial role in IVF success. Factors such as smoking and a stressful lifestyle can negatively impact the outcomes.
Can You Select the Sex of the Embryo in the IVF Process?
One advantage of using IVF is the ability to incorporate complementary techniques such as pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) and Microsorting for sex selection. The PGD technique is particularly beneficial for couples with genetic disorders, allowing them to have a healthy baby.
In both IVF and ICSI, it is possible to determine the sex of the embryo before it is transferred to the uterus by using the PGD technique. This method involves screening the embryos before transfer and conducting necessary examinations and tests to determine their sex.
After the formation of the embryos in IVF, a single cell is isolated from each dividing embryo and subjected to genetic and chromosomal analysis. Once the sex of the embryos is determined, the embryo of the desired gender is transferred to the mother's uterus.
To learn more about gender selection, visit: [Learn more about Gender Selection]
What are the Pre-IVF Assessments?
Couples undergoing IVF treatments should have thorough evaluations, which include the following assessments:
Post-Treatment Care in IVF
After IVF treatment, it is generally advised to follow these instructions:
What are the Causes of IVF Failure?
The success of IVF depends on the successful completion of each treatment stage. If any stage fails, the entire IVF process can fail. Common causes of IVF failure include:
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If IVF fails, couples can repeat the process after 2 or 3 menstrual cycles. This delay allows the woman time to return to her normal menstrual cycle.
To learn more about egg donation, visit: [Egg Donation in Iran]
what are the risks of IVF?
Having an open dialogue with your doctor is key throughout the IVF process. Understanding potential side effects and addressing any concerns you may have upfront can help you feel more prepared and in control.
Possible Side Effects:
Medication: The fertility drugs used during IVF can sometimes cause temporary side effects like mood swings, headaches, or bloating. Discussing these with your doctor can help you manage them effectively.
Multiple Pregnancies: IVF can increase the chance of having twins, triplets, or more. While this might sound wonderful, it also comes with increased risks for both mother and babies during pregnancy. Your doctor will discuss the best course of action for your specific situation.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): This is a rare but serious complication where the ovaries overreact to fertility medications. Early detection and management are crucial.
Egg Retrieval: While a minimally invasive procedure, egg collection can cause mild discomfort or cramping. Your doctor will discuss pain management options to ensure your comfort.
Ectopic Pregnancy: This is a situation where the embryo implants outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tubes. It's a medical emergency and requires prompt treatment. Early pregnancy scans can help detect this.
Emotional Wellbeing: The IVF journey can be emotionally demanding. Don't hesitate to seek support from your partner, family, friends, or a therapist throughout the process.
Remember, knowledge is power! By being informed and prepared, you can approach IVF with confidence and focus on achieving your dream of parenthood.
Does IVF Affect Your Future Fertility?
One of the questions that often comes up with IVF is whether it impacts your future chances of conceiving naturally. Let's break it down!
The Age Factor:
Age plays a major role in ovarian reserve, which is the number and quality of eggs remaining in your ovaries. As we age, this reserve naturally declines.
IVF and Ovarian Reserve:
Studies suggest that undergoing up to 3 IVF cycles with ovarian stimulation likely doesn't significantly decrease your ovarian reserve. However, when cycles exceed 3, the picture gets less clear. This is because age becomes a more prominent factor influencing your remaining eggs.
The good news is that multiple IVF cycles within a reasonable range likely won't harm your future fertility potential. However, talking to your doctor is essential to understand your individual situation and how age might play a role in your specific case.
IVF and Multiples: What to Expect
Considering IVF and wondering about the chances of twins or triplets? While IVF can increase the likelihood of multiples, there are ways to manage this factor.
The Multiples Factor in IVF:
The good news is that doctors prioritize single embryo transfers whenever possible to minimize the risk of multiples. However, the mother's age and the number of embryos transferred do play a role:
Younger moms (under 35): As the table below shows, younger women have a higher chance of success with single embryo transfers, reducing the risk of multiples.
Age and Multiple Pregnancies:
As women age, their fertility naturally declines. In some cases, transferring more than one embryo may be considered to increase the chances of pregnancy. This however, also increases the risk of multiples.
Talking to Your Doctor:
Discussing your individual situation and preferences with your doctor is crucial. They can guide you towards the best approach to achieve a successful pregnancy while minimizing the risk of multiples.
Further Resources:
For a deeper dive into this topic, you can consult the reference "Clinical Gynecologic Endocrinology and Infertility, 8th edition"
IVF is a collaborative process. By openly discussing your goals and concerns with your doctor, you can make informed decisions for a successful outcome.
IVF cost in Iran:
Looking into IVF and concerned about the costs? Iran has emerged as a destination for high-quality, affordable IVF treatment.
Significant Cost Savings:
Compared to the global average, Iran offers IVF cycles at a fraction of the price. Typically, a cycle in Iran ranges between $2,500 and $3,500, which includes most routine procedures, medications, and tests. This compares favorably to the US, where a single cycle can cost upwards of $15,000, often excluding medications.
Quality and Affordability:
Iran boasts a reputation for excellence in infertility treatments, including IVF. This means you can access high-quality care at a significantly lower cost compared to many other countries.
Transparency in Pricing:
The cost structure in Iran is more transparent. The quoted price typically encompasses most routine aspects of the IVF cycle, minimizing unexpected charges.
Why the Lower Costs?
The lower cost of IVF in Iran can be attributed to several factors, including lower doctor salaries and generally inexpensive clinic services. However, it's important to note that medication costs remain fairly consistent worldwide.
Making an Informed Decision:
If affordability is a concern for your IVF journey, Iran presents a compelling option. Remember, it's crucial to consult with a qualified doctor to discuss your individual needs and determine if this approach is right for you.
Iran: Your Gateway to Affordable IVF
Iran has become a frontrunner in IVF, offering high-quality care at a fraction of the global cost. With advanced technology and experienced professionals, Iran's 80+ specialized clinics stand ready to assist couples on their journey to parenthood. For a more affordable and successful IVF experience, consider Iran as your next step.