Treatments explained
Ovulation induction, IUI and IVF explained step by step, with the risks, the add-ons and the questions worth asking before you start.
New to the terms? Start with the glossary.
Guides about Treatments explained
IUI or IVF? How doctors decide which to suggest
There is no single rule for choosing between IUI and IVF. Doctors weigh the state of the fallopian tubes, sperm results, age, how long you have been trying, ovulation, any previous treatment, and your own priorities, including cost.
Reviewed 16 Oct 20264 min read
IUI and IVF, step by step
IUI places prepared sperm in the uterus around ovulation; IVF collects eggs, fertilises them in a laboratory and transfers an embryo. They suit different situations, and in India both must be carried out at a clinic registered under the ART Act, 2021.
Reviewed 16 Oct 20265 min read
Ovulation induction: medicines to help you ovulate
Ovulation induction uses tablets such as letrozole or clomifene, or hormone injections, to help the ovaries release an egg. It is often a first treatment for people who do not ovulate regularly, such as many with PCOS, and it needs monitoring because of the risk of multiple pregnancy.
Reviewed 16 Oct 20264 min read
Frozen embryo transfer: what happens and why
In a frozen embryo transfer, an embryo frozen during an earlier IVF cycle is thawed and placed in the uterus. The lining of the uterus is prepared either with your natural cycle or with hormone medicines, and freezing and storage need your written consent.
Reviewed 16 Oct 20264 min read
IVF risks, including OHSS: what to know
Most IVF cycles go without serious problems, but there are real risks. The main ones are ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), multiple pregnancy, complications of egg collection, and ectopic pregnancy. Knowing the warning signs helps you get help early.
Reviewed 16 Oct 20264 min read
IVF add-ons: what the evidence says
Add-ons are optional extras offered alongside IVF, often at extra cost. Expert reviews, including ESHRE in 2023, found that for most add-ons there is not enough good evidence that they improve the chance of having a baby. It is reasonable to ask for the evidence before agreeing to any.
Reviewed 16 Oct 20264 min read
When an IVF cycle doesn't work: next steps
A cycle that doesn't lead to a pregnancy is painful, and grief is a normal response. When you feel ready, a review with your doctor can look at what happened in the cycle and whether anything should change. Second opinions are reasonable.
Reviewed 16 Oct 20264 min read
Is IVF painful? What each step can feel like
Most of IVF involves discomfort rather than severe pain, and egg collection is done under sedation. People experience it differently, so it helps to know what is common at each stage and which symptoms need a doctor straight away.
Reviewed 16 Oct 20264 min read
Medically reviewed
Every guide is reviewed by Dr Shesha Sinha and shows its review date.
Sourced
Numbered references to guidelines and published research, at the end of every guide.
General information
Guides explain; they can't account for your history. Medical disclaimer