How the IVF Process Works: Step-by-Step Stages
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a multi-stage medical process, and understanding each step helps patients feel more confident going in. Below is the sequence followed by ANGEL WAY's partner clinics in Almaty.
1. Consultation & Diagnostics
The program begins with an in-person or online consultation with a reproductive specialist. The workup includes a hormonal profile, pelvic ultrasound, ovarian reserve assessment (AMH), and a semen analysis for the partner. At this stage, the physician defines the stimulation protocol and discusses the prognosis.
2. Ovarian Stimulation
Hormonal medications stimulate the growth of multiple follicles at once. Over 10–14 days, the patient undergoes regular ultrasound monitoring so the physician can adjust dosing and pinpoint the right moment for egg retrieval.
3. Egg Retrieval
Eggs are retrieved under brief sedation via the vaginal wall, guided by ultrasound. The procedure takes 15–20 minutes, with recovery in a few hours.
4. Fertilization: Conventional IVF or ICSI
Retrieved eggs are fertilized in the lab — either by standard IVF or by ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection, where a single sperm is injected directly into the egg), used when there is a male-factor issue or previous fertilization attempts were unsuccessful.
5. Embryo Culture & Genetic Screening
Embryos are cultured in an incubator for 5–6 days to reach the blastocyst stage. When indicated (maternal age, recurrent miscarriage, hereditary risk), preimplantation genetic testing (NGS) is performed to select a chromosomally normal embryo and reduce the risk of failed implantation.
6. Embryo Transfer
Transfer is a painless procedure requiring no anesthesia, similar to a routine gynecological exam. Typically a single embryo is transferred (two, by agreement) to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy.
7. Luteal Support & Pregnancy Confirmation
Hormonal support is prescribed after transfer. A blood hCG test is done roughly 10–14 days later, and the first confirmatory ultrasound follows 2–3 weeks after a positive result.