IVF is undoubtedly one of the most popular forms of infertility treatment in modern times. However, the process is complicated and is not easy for anyone. Therefore, there are things that you must be clear about regarding IVF before diving deep into the process. This includes understanding the process, treatment plan, and the aftermath of the process. There are many ways you can gain this information. One of the best ways to do this is by asking questions to your IVF doctors during your first appointment. But the question here is- what are the questions to ask your IVF doctor on your first appointment? Well, this is exactly what we shall discuss here.
In this blog, we provide you with a list of 15 questions to ask your IVF doctor on the first appointment and their generic answers. Furthermore, we shall also provide you with additional information, such as the process of IVF as well. So, keeping this in mind, let’s get started!
Understanding In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
In Vitro Fertilization or IVF for short, is one of the most well-known and effective forms of assisted reproductive technology (ART) and is used to help couples fulfill their dream of parenthood. The process refers to the process of fertilization with an egg with sperm outside the body before being transplanted back for conception. It is widely used for a wide range of fertility challenges, such as blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, ovulation disorders, endometriosis, and low sperm count.
The process involves many stages, such as ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, sperm collection, fertilization, embryo culture, and embryo transfer. Each of these steps needs to be monitored carefully with a significant commitment to time and resources.
The IVF Process
Now that we discussed what IVF is, let's talk about its process. The specific process of IVF depends on your individual circumstances and needs. However, there are some processes that are common regardless of what your circumstances are. Some of these key processes of IVF include: ****
1. Ovarian Stimulation
The first step is ovarian stimulation, where fertility medications are given to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. This increases the chances of retrieving healthy, mature eggs for fertilization.
2. Monitoring and Trigger Shot
Ultrasounds and blood tests monitor egg development and hormone levels. When the eggs are ready, a trigger injection is given to prepare them for retrieval.
3. Egg Retrieval
The eggs are collected from the ovaries using a minor surgical procedure under sedation. This is done through a thin needle guided by ultrasound.
4. Sperm Collection
A sperm sample is collected from the partner or a donor on the same day as egg retrieval. The sperm is then prepared in the lab for fertilization.
5. Fertilization
Eggs and sperm are combined in a lab, either through traditional mixing or ICSI (injecting sperm directly into an egg). The goal is to create healthy embryos.
6. Embryo Culture
Once the eggs are fertilized, they are monitored for a few days as they develop into embryos. Embryologists assess their growth and quality during this time.
7. Embryo Transfer
Following embryo culture, one or more embryos are selected and gently placed into the uterus. This is a quick and usually painless procedure done without anesthesia.
8. Luteal Phase Support
In this phase, you are provided with hormonal medications, like progesterone, to support the uterine lining and help with embryo implantation. This continues until a pregnancy test confirms the outcome.
9. Pregnancy Test
About 10–14 days after the embryo transfer, a blood test checks for pregnancy. If positive, follow-up tests and scans confirm progress; if not, your doctor will discuss the next steps.
As mentioned, although the specifics of the processes can vary, the general processes that we mentioned here remain the same. Once you take the pregnancy test, you can either start a new cycle in case of pregnancy failure or proceed with pregnancy.
Questions To Ask Your IVF Doctor On The First Appointment
At this point, we have covered the general gist regarding the definition and process of IVF process. So, let’s head towards the core aspect of this topic, i.e., 15 questions to ask your IVF doctors on the first appointment. So, what are these questions? These questions, along with their answers, are as follows. Do note that the answers that we shall provide here are only the generic answer. The experts given by your doctors can and will vary depending on your condition and circumstances. With this in mind, let’s head to the questions.
1. What are my chances of success with IVF?
Your chances of success with IVF depend on many factors, such as age, fertility diagnosis, hormone levels, and overall health. If you are under the age of 35, then you generally have a higher chance of higher success rates when compared to the older age groups. At Hardik IVF and Fertility Center, the success rate is around 70% to 80% in general.
2. What tests do I need before starting IVF?
Before starting, some of the key tests that you might need to do include the following:
- Hormone level testing
- Pelvic ultrasound
- Infectious disease screening
At the same time, your male partner may also need to take semen analysis and genetic testing if needed. These tests help in creating treatment plans customized for your fertility needs.
3. Which IVF protocol is right for me?
There are different IVF protocols, such as long, short, and antagonist cycles. Your doctor will choose one based on your age, ovarian reserve, and medical history. The goal is to optimize your response to medications and improve your chances of retrieving quality eggs. Personalized protocols often yield better results than a one-size-fits-all approach.
4. How many IVF cycles should I expect?
It all depends on the specifics of your circumstances. Some of you can succeed in a single cycle, while others may need multiple cycles. The number of cycles depends on your body’s response, embryo quality, and implantation success. Your doctor will guide you based on how your first cycle goes. Financial, emotional, and physical factors also play a role in deciding how many cycles to attempt.
5. What are the costs involved in IVF?
The IVF costs depend on many factors. Some of these factors include aspects such as:
- Clinic
- Location
- Additional services such as ICSI and PGT
- Use of donor use
Because of these factors, the specific cost is nearly impossible to determine. However, at Hardik, you can get IVF starting from the cost or NPR 2,50,000. Medications, lab procedures, and follow-up appointments are often billed separately. Ask for a detailed cost breakdown to avoid unexpected expenses.
6. Are there any side effects or risks?
Just like any other form of medical treatment, IVF too has its own set of side effects. These side effects include services such as bloating, mood swings, headaches, and abdominal discomfort. If you are especially unlucky, you may even have Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). Furthermore, there are also emotional and mental health challenges because of the illness of the process.
7. How do you handle multiple embryos?
The process of handling multiple embryos depends on your choice. These embryos can be used, frozen for future use through cryopreservation, stored, donated, or completely discarded, depending on your decision. This does involve informed consent and planning and your doctor shall discuss the number of embryos to transfer should you choose multiple embryo transfer.
8. What happens if the IVF cycle fails?
If the IVF cycle does not succeed, the doctor shall review the process and help you identify the possible reasons. The experts may also make adjustments to medications, protocols, and embryo transfer techniques. You can choose to try another cycle, explore alternative treatments, or choose donor options. The experts also provide you with emotional support.
9. Do you recommend PGT (genetic testing)?
The specifics depend on your circumstances. The doctors can recommend Preimplantation Genetic Testing in circumstances when you have genetic disorders, recent miscarriages, and failed IVF attempts. It helps the experts select embryos with the best genetic makeup to improve success rates. Not all of you might need it but if you do, then you need to spend additional funds for this extra test.
10. What lifestyle changes should I make before IVF?
Before you do the IVF, you should quit smoking, lower the consumption of alcohol and caffeine, and maintain a healthy weight. You should also do regular light exercise and practice stress management techniques.
Furthermore, your doctor may also recommend prenatal vitamins and specific supplements depending on your needs. The lifestyle changes improve your body's readiness for treatment and pregnancy.
11. How do you monitor my progress during treatment?
The progress shall be tracked through various means, such as blood tests and ultrasounds. The experts also monitor hormone levels when needed. These visits also help time for egg retrieval and embryo transfer accurately. Because of this, you should constantly communicate with your care team during the process.
12. Can my partner be involved in the process?
Yes, your partner can be involved in the process. Rather, it is encouraged for both you and your partners as it promotes emotional support and participation in procedures such as sperm collection. Your partner can attend appointments, help manage medications, and be present during embryo transfer if they are allowed. IVF can be emotionally taxing, and having a supportive partner makes a big difference.
13. What is the clinic’s success rate with patients like me?
The success rates can vary depending on the age, diagnosis, and expertise of the doctors. Therefore, it is extremely hard to provide you with the exact percentage. However, at Hardik, the success rate of IVF at Hardik is between 70% and 80%. Do note that numbers alone don’t tell the full story, but they’re a good starting point for discussion.
14. What support services are available?
During the IVF treatment, Hardik offers you counseling, fertility coaching, nutrition advice, and support groups. These services help you manage stress and improve your overall experiences. Emotional and mental support is highly important and therefore, you should ask what’s included and whether additional support is available on request.
15. What is your availability and emergency contact policy?
Hardik is available from Sunday to Friday between 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and you can contact us at the following details:
- Location: Sinamangal, Kathmandu, Nepal - 44600
- Phone: 01-5971461
- Email: [email protected]
Top Tips for Your IVF Appointment
Now, although IVF does have a rather high success rate, it is not 100% successful. At the same time, you should also know that there are many risks associated with IVF. Therefore, before you start the process, you can implement a few tips to boost the success rate and make the treatment more convenient for you. Some of these tips include:
- Read up on the basics of IVF, so you’re familiar with the process and common terms. This helps you follow the conversation and ask informed questions.
- Bring a list of concerns or topics you want to cover (like the 15 questions mentioned above). It's easy to forget important points at the moment.
- If you’ve had previous tests, treatments, or diagnoses, carry all relevant reports and documents. This helps your doctor avoid repeating tests and understand your full history.
- Be ready to share information about your menstrual cycle, ovulation patterns, and any symptoms you’ve experienced. This gives your doctor crucial insight into your fertility.
- If applicable, bring your partner to the appointment. Their presence helps with decision-making and emotional support, and they may have questions of their own.
- Share openly about your habits, diet, stress levels, and any medications or supplements you’re taking. Full transparency helps tailor your treatment plan.
- You’ll be given a lot of information, so jot down key points or ask if you can record the conversation. This lets you review everything later and discuss it calmly.
- IVF can be a sensitive topic—acknowledge your feelings and go in with a mindset open to learning and support. It's okay to feel nervous, curious, or overwhelmed.
- Ask in advance about consultation fees and bring your insurance information if applicable. Understanding the financial side helps you plan ahead.
- Give yourself time to settle in before your appointment starts. A calm, prepared mindset helps you make the most of your consultation.
Meet Our Top IVF Fertility Specialists
Another key thing to note, besides the tips, before you start the IVF process is to know the doctors who shall be responsible for the treatment. The question here is - who are some of the top IVF specialists in Nepal? The.best doctors are:
1. Dr. Archana Shakya
- MBBS, MD in Obstetrics & Gynecology (Kathmandu University)
- Fellowship in IVF, India
- Observership, Japan
Dr. Archana Shakya is a seasoned fertility expert who has a strong foundation in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She did her MBBS and MD from Kathmandu University and topped it off with an advanced IVF fellowship in India. Her observership in Japan further boosted her understanding of international fertility trends. Dr. Shakya at Hardik is well known for her meticulous care, patient-focused approach, and advanced procedure skills such as egg freezing.
2. Dr. Nesuma Sedhain
- MD in Obstetrics & Gynecology
- MBBS, Bangladesh
- NMC Registration No. 13218
Dr. Nesuma Sedhain is a dedicated obstetrician-gynecologist with vast academic and clinical experience in reproductive medicine. She completed her MBBS from Bangladesh before undertaking her MD in fertility care. Having registered with the Nepal Medical Council (NMC 13218), she is well known for her ethical, personalized approach to fertility treatments. Many patients seeking IVF or egg-freezing services at Hardik trust Dr. Sedhain for her expertise and compassionate guidance.
Conclusion
IVF is undoubtedly one of the best treatment procedures to counter infertility. That said, before you start the process, there are many things you should know. One of the best ways you can fulfill your curiosity is to ask doctors about your queries. In this blog, we provide you with a list of these questions. These questions range from simple questions such as chances of success for IVF tests you need to before starting IVF to less common questions such as if the partner would be involved in the IVF process, the lifestyle changes to be made and if a specific process is recommended in the IVF.
If you would like to know more about the various facets of IVF, do take a gander at some of our other blogs. And if you require the best IVF services or consultation in Nepal, you need to look no further than Hardik IVF and Fertility Center.
FAQs on 15 Essential Questions to Ask Your IVF Doctor 1. What should I know before an IVF consultation?
Before your IVF consultation, it’s helpful to understand the basics of the process, treatment options, and potential outcomes. Bringinging your medical history and a list of questions with you can also help make the consultation more productive.
2. How can I improve IVF success?
While success cannot be guaranteed, following your doctor's instructions carefully, living a healthy lifestyle, and attending all monitoring appointments can significantly improve your chances. Getting an experienced clinic is also important.
3. What is the hardest part of IVF?
The emotional rollercoaster and uncertainty are cited as the hardest aspects of IVF by most patients. The side effects of hormones and waiting period between procedures may also be physically and emotionally taxing.
4. What are the 5 main steps of IVF?
Ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, embryo culture, and embryo transfer are the five main steps of IVF. Each step is carefully observed and timed to aid the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.
5. How many follicles are ideal for IVF?
The ideal is to have a good response of 10 to 20 mature follicles, but this varies with age and on a per individual ovarian reserve basis. Quality rather than quantity is often the case when it comes to successful outcomes.
