In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a medical procedure that involves the fertilization of an egg outside the body, in a laboratory setting. The procedure is primarily used to help individuals or couples with fertility problems conceive a child.

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The IVF process begins with ovarian stimulation, where medications are given to a woman to encourage her ovaries to produce multiple eggs. These eggs are monitored and retrieved through a minor surgical procedure, typically involving a needle guided by ultrasound.

Once the eggs are retrieved, they are combined with sperm in the laboratory to facilitate fertilization. In some cases, sperm may be injected directly into the egg in a process called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), especially if male infertility is a factor.

After fertilization, the embryos are cultured for several days to allow them to develop. Typically, the most viable embryos are selected for transfer into the woman's uterus. The number of embryos transferred depends on various factors, including the age of the woman and the quality of the embryos.

Following the embryo transfer, a pregnancy test is performed after a couple of weeks to determine whether implantation has occurred and the pregnancy is progressing.

IVF treatment can be associated with various risks, including ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), multiple pregnancies, and potential complications arising from the procedures themselves. Success rates for IVF vary, depending on factors such as age, the cause of infertility, and overall health.

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IVF has been an important advancement in reproductive medicine, providing a solution for many individuals facing challenges with conception. The procedure has evolved over time with technological improvements aimed at increasing the chances of success while minimizing risks.