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IVF FAQs

Common Questions and Answers About in Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Today, infertile couples and individuals have more options than ever before. Ohio Reproductive Medicine in Columbus, Ohio is the oldest and only fertility clinic in Central Ohio. We have decades of experience, stellar success rates, and state-of-the-art facilities to assure our patients are comfortable, confident in our services.

What Is IVF?

In Vitro Fertilization is assisted reproductive technology where the egg and sperm are combined in a lab, to create a fertilized egg. The fertilized egg is incubated and grows into an embryo. 3-5 days after fertilization, a selected embryo is transferred to the woman’s uterus where it will hopefully implant in the lining, and develop into a fetus that will become a healthy infant. Extra embryos can be frozen for future use, or used in an IVF cycle.

What Is an IVF Cycle?

The initial IVF cycle includes the following steps:

  • Ovarian Stimulation – The intended mother or egg donor receives hormone therapy to stimulate the production of multiple eggs.
  • Egg retrieval – The eggs are retrieved from the ovary.
  • Sperm is provided by the intended father or a donor.
  • The sperm and eggs are combined in the lab for fertilization.
  • Fertilization occurs and embryos are created.
  • The embryos are incubated to grow.
  • The most viable embryo(s) chosen are for implantation.
  • 3-5 days after fertilization, the selected embryo is transferred to the uterus of the intended mother or a gestational carrier.
  • The remaining embryos are frozen for use in the future.
  • Then you wait two weeks to see if the embryo survives the transfer, implants in the uterus. A pregnancy test confirms you are pregnant!

What Happens if the First Cycle Does Not Result in Pregnancy?

Subsequent IVF cycles involve the transfer of a frozen embryo and waiting to see if pregnancy results.

How Many Embryos Will Be Transferred?

Because of the potential health risks associated with multiple births, most fertility experts agree that only one embryo should be transferred at a time. The remaining embryos can be frozen for future use.

Which Is Better Fresh or Frozen Embryos?

Studies indicate an advantage with frozen embryos due to the ability to test for genetic abnormalities using PGT.

Are There Other Advantages To Freezing?

  • Yes, in the event of a need for repeated cycles, using frozen embryos can reduce the stress and anxiety of the process.
  • Repeated ovarian stimulation to obtain fresh embryos, requires additional hormone stimulation and egg retrieval, which can increase the risk of the negative side.
  • Avoiding repeated ovarian stimulation gives the woman a chance to let her hormones return to normal before implantation, which increases the chance of implantation and embryo development.
  • Egg freezing allows a woman to preserve her fertility for a future time when she is ready to have a baby.
Patient Testimonials
Ross Gordon
Patient

"Dr. Rossi is a thoughtful, encouraging professional to have along your journey. We were very fortunate to land in her care following Dr. Williams' retirement. We have had our struggles like many, but have always felt in good hands with Dr. Rossi. She is truly an ally as every patient deserves. Thank you!"

Jessica Hartman
Patient

"Over the course of my treatment, I met with all 4 doctors on several occasions. All of them were wonderful, compassionate, knowledgeable, and professional. They offer weekend and holiday appointments to meet your needs. I welcomed my sweet daughter last year thanks to the staff at ORM."

Chelsea Beach
Patient

"Thank you to Dr. Rossi and her nurses for helping us through secondary infertility. Dr. Rossi is so knowledgeable, personable and I felt that she really cares. We had success here and I would recommend her to anyone."

Andee P.
Patient

"I received excellent care from all the physicians involved in my care. I can’t say enough about the fabulous nursing staff, every call was returned promptly and my concerns addressed thoroughly. Desired outcomes achieved!"

Kristy
Patient

"This fertility clinic is very knowledgeable and practices utilizing the most recent research. The physicians are caring and kind particularly when procedures are not effective. I would highly recommend this physician group. My experience with Dr. Grant Schmidt and his nursing staff was wonderful."

Learn More about Ohio Reproductive Medicine

At Ohio Reproductive Medicine in Columbus, Ohio we understand infertility is an intensely private struggle filled with frustration and uncertainty. When you determine you need help, you can count on our board-certified reproductive endocrinologists to provide you with effective, supportive, compassionate care.

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Our team at Ohio Reproductive Medicine is focused on providing patient care that is convenient, comforting, and informative. We’ve compiled a list of patient resources to enhance your experience.

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