Table of contents:
- Get to know first what the IVF procedure looks like
- Pain or not the process of IVF depends on each patient
- Ovulation induction
- The development of an egg in the uterus
- Taking eggs
- Transfer of the fertilized egg (embryo) into the uterus
IVF program, aka in vitro fertilization (IVF), can be an alternative choice for those of you who want to have children. This procedure is not the main recommendation for treating fertility problems, but it can be the best option when other fertility methods have not worked. Unfortunately, some women refuse to undergo this program for fear of feeling pain. Is it true that IVF is painful? Here's the explanation.
Get to know first what the IVF procedure looks like
When the egg cannot be fertilized by sperm cells in the body, it doesn't hurt to try the IVF program. The reason is, this procedure is carried out by combining egg cells and sperm cells outside the body, in the hope that the fertilization process can be successful and realize the hopes of couples who want to have children.
The process of IVF works by helping the ovaries produce healthy eggs that are ready to be fertilized. This egg will then be taken and placed in a test tube for the fertilization process. After the egg has been fertilized and forms an embryo, it will be transferred to an incubator for a few days before being transferred back to the uterus. If the pregnancy fails, this process will continue to be repeated until the pregnancy is successful.
Pain or not the process of IVF depends on each patient
Basically, IVF involves little discomfort or pain. However, it is more subjective, depending on the patient's physical condition. Then, what processes might cause pain when undergoing IVF? Let's peel off each stage one by one.
Ovulation induction
The first part of the IVF process begins with injecting fertility hormones into the body of a female patient. This injection functions to stimulate the ovaries to produce several healthy eggs.
Most of the women who initiate this process feel very little pain, some even report no pain at all. This is because the needles used tend to be thin and small, compared to diabetics who have to inject insulin with similar needles 3 to 4 times a day.
The development of an egg in the uterus
In this phase, the egg begins to develop and the ovaries begin to enlarge. This condition causes pain in the lower abdomen and a feeling of bloating. The doctor will usually give certain drugs to limit the number of eggs that grow, thereby reducing pain.
By providing good stimulation, women do not even experience pain. The patient will only feel a little discomfort and can carry out normal activities as usual. This discomfort can only be felt for a few moments, at least one week.
Taking eggs
The patient has been previously informed that this process is performed by piercing the ovaries through the vagina using a long, thin needle. This phase may seem scary for women who are about to undergo IVF.
In fact, this stage does not cause pain because the patient will be given anesthesia, aka anesthetic. Some women experience cramping or a small amount of vaginal bleeding at this stage. But there is no need to worry, the doctor will be guided by a transvaginal ultrasound monitor when taking eggs so that it is safe. In addition, doctors also always ensure that the patient will remain comfortable and pain-free during this procedure.
Transfer of the fertilized egg (embryo) into the uterus
After three to five days after embryo formation, the embryo will be transferred back into the uterus. The good news is, this procedure is painless. It's just that the patient will feel uncomfortable when inserting a vaginal speculum like when undergoing a pap smear.
After that, the patient will be given the hormone progesterone to help prepare the uterine wall when receiving the embryo. This hormone can be given by injection, pill, or gel. Progesterone injections usually cause pain because the liquid used is oil-based, so the needle is bigger. If you can't stand the pain, you can ask for progesterone in pill or gel form.
So in short, the pain in IVF is very subjective, depending on the abilities of each patient. Some women may feel very sick, while others tend to be calmer. If you are familiar with needles, then IVF will probably not worry you. Meanwhile, if you are afraid of injections, this procedure may be a little tense for you.
Therefore, consult your doctor before you decide to undergo an IVF program. The process is safe and you will be guided by specialists and nurses, so even if you feel a little pain, you don't have to worry.
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