IVF (In-vitro fertilisation) | Dr Samson Olori – Paediatric Surgeon Abuja, Nigeria

What is IVF?

In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a type of assisted reproduction in which eggs are collected from the ovaries and fertilised with sperm in the laboratory. The resulting embryos may be transferred to the uterus (or to a surrogate), or frozen for later use. IVF can use your eggs and your partner’s sperm, donor eggs or sperm, or donated embryos. It is usually considered when other fertility treatments (e.g. medication, intrauterine insemination) have not succeeded, or when there are specific issues such as blocked tubes, low sperm count, endometriosis, or unexplained infertility.

The IVF process

Steps typically include: (1) Ovarian reserve testing and uterine assessment before starting. (2) Ovarian stimulation with fertility drugs so several eggs develop. (3) Monitoring with blood tests and ultrasound to time egg retrieval. (4) Egg retrieval (follicular aspiration) under sedation or anaesthesia—a needle is guided through the vagina into the ovaries to collect eggs. (5) Sperm is collected and mixed with the eggs (or intracytoplasmic sperm injection, ICSI, may be used if sperm quality is poor). (6) Embryos are cultured and may be tested for genetic conditions. (7) One or more embryos are transferred into the uterus via a thin catheter. Pregnancy is confirmed by a blood test. The process is physically and emotionally demanding; complications can include multiple pregnancy, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).

How we can help

We do not perform IVF at our practice but can discuss your situation and refer you to reputable fertility specialists and centres for full assessment, counselling, and treatment. Choosing whether to pursue IVF—and how many attempts—is a personal decision; your fertility team will help you understand success rates, costs, and alternatives.

Success rates and what to expect

Success rates depend on age, cause of infertility, and the clinic. Generally, younger women and those with good ovarian reserve have higher pregnancy rates per cycle. Not every cycle leads to a pregnancy; some people need several attempts. Your fertility specialist will give you personalised information based on your tests and history. After embryo transfer, you will wait about two weeks before a pregnancy test. If the result is positive, early scans confirm the pregnancy and check that it is in the uterus. Emotional support and clear communication with your team are important throughout the process. We can help you find a fertility centre and support you with referrals and follow-up.

Frequently asked questions

Who might need IVF?
IVF may be recommended for blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, reduced ovarian function, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, male infertility (low count or abnormal sperm), unexplained infertility, or when other treatments have failed. A fertility specialist will assess your case.
What does the process involve?
It includes ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilisation in the lab, embryo culture (and possibly genetic testing), and embryo transfer. Your clinic will explain the steps, timeline, and what to expect at each stage.
What are the risks?
Risks include multiple pregnancy, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, OHSS (fluid in abdomen/chest), and rarely infection or bleeding. Your fertility team will monitor you and explain how risks are minimised.
How many IVF cycles might I need?
It varies. Some people conceive in the first cycle; others need two or more. Your fertility specialist will discuss success rates for your situation and what to expect. We can refer you to a centre that will support you through the process.