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What is IVF
In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a well-established method where eggs are extracted from the ovaries, fertilised with sperm in a laboratory, and then implanted into the uterus.
This process is particularly helpful for couples with fertility issues such as irregular ovulation, blocked fallopian tubes, or low sperm count. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is another advanced technique used with IVF, whereby a single sperm is carefully injected into the extracted egg. ICSI is especially beneficial for couples dealing with male infertility issues.
IVF in Western Australia
Western Australia has been at the forefront of IVF treatment since its inception, where Concept Fertility pioneered the use of IVF in Western Australia in 1982. WA achieved its first successful IVF birth on 13 July 1982, second only to NSW in Australia.
Who can get IVF in Western Australia?
In Western Australia, IVF and associated procedures are governed by the Human Reproductive Technology Act 1991 (HRT Act).
In order to be eligible for IVF in Western Australia, a medically diagnosed cause of infertility must be present.
The IVF Treatment Process - Step by Step
An IVF treatment cycle begins on day 1 of your period and ends with the pregnancy blood test about four weeks later.
It’s important to note that it can take more than one IVF cycle to get a positive pregnancy test.
1. Ovarian Hyperstimulation
The first stage of the IVF treatment cycle is to use self-administered injections. An FSH injection is used to stimulate the growth of eggs within the ovaries, another medication is used to suppress the natural ovulation hormone with a final trigger injection carefully timed to complete the final maturation of the eggs in preparation for the egg collection.
2. Egg Development
Egg development is then monitored through blood tests and ultrasound scans.
3. Egg Collection
The eggs are then removed in a simple day procedure called the ‘egg collection’ (trans-vaginal oocyte collection). The procedure itself does not take more than 30-minutes. After the procedure you will be taken through to our recovery area and must meet a certain criteria before discharge.
4. Egg & Sperm Combined
On that same day, either your partner’s sperm or the donor sample is prepared in the laboratory. The eggs and sperm are then combined and cultured in the lab by our expert embryologists.
5. Embryo Incubation
If the fertilisation process is successful, an egg can/may divide and form an embryo. These embryos are then grown in purpose-designed incubators.
We take great care in monitoring them and will grow them for a maximum of six days. In some cycles, depending on embryo numbers and quality, a day 3 transfer/freeze may be more suited to you. The decision about what is better suited for your circumstances will be made on day 2 of embryo development.
6. Embryo Transfer
Once the embryos have reached the desired stage, our embryologists will then select the most suitable embryo and transfer it into the uterus.
You will also be provided with progesterone supplementation to prepare the lining of the uterus for embryo implantation.
The embryo transfer is a simple process. The procedure itself only takes about five minutes and is done by one of our experienced fertility specialists.
7. Embryo Storage
Any additional, good quality embryos can be frozen for use in future cycles.
Embryos can remain in storage until;
Read more about Embryo Storage here.
8. 9-11 Day Wait
After the transfer, the patient will have to wait 9-11 days (day 14 past ovulation) to confirm the final outcome of the process.
GP Referral for Medicare Rebates
To start the IVF process, a GP Referral must be obtained first. A valid referral from a GP is needed to be able to claim Medicare rebates.
How Long Does IVF Take
An IVF treatment cycle begins on day 1 of your period and ends with the pregnancy blood test about four weeks later. It’s important to note that it can take more than one IVF cycle to get a positive pregnancy test.
IVF Enquiries
To make an enquiry regarding IVF procedures at Concept Fertility & Day Hospital, please head to our Contact Us page.
