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Understanding the 6 Types of Assisted Reproductive Treatment

Team AckoFeb 8, 2024

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) is defined as all those medical procedures, which help in treating infertility. Based on the cause of infertility, the doctor advises the medical procedure to be performed, which will give the desired result.

Contents

Ovulation Induction
Artificial Insemination (AI)
In-vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Donor Sperm
Donor Eggs
Surrogacy

Let’s understand one by one the different ART techniques

Ovulation Induction

When ovulation is not happening regularly, ovulation induction is done where a hormone medication either in the form of a tablet or injection is given, which will stimulate the production of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH). This helps in the development of one or more follicles. The next step is to wait for the follicles to grow large. Now, another hormone is given for egg to be released from the follicle. During this time, if a couple has sex, the chances of getting pregnant are good.

Artificial Insemination (AI)

AI is an infertility treatment method wherein semen is directly inserted through the female’s cervix into the uterus during or before ovulation time. This procedure is recommended if in women, the cervix does not produce mucus, which will inhibit the travel of sperm. Other cases where AI is used are where intercourse is not possible due to erectile dysfunction and in moderate cases of endometriosis where the tissue that lines the uterus grows on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the intestines.

In-vitro Fertilization (IVF)

IVF is used when a woman’s fallopian tubes are blocked. Her eggs are collected and sperm is added to form the embryo. One or more embryos develop. The embryo is transferred into the uterus where it may implant and grow into a baby.

Donor Sperm

In case a male can’t produce sperm, normal sperm, or has a genetic defect, which can pass on to the child, sperm is obtained from a known person or the sperm bank. Once the sperm is obtained, the process is same as artificial insemination.

Donor Eggs

In case a woman can’t produce eggs, has had miscarriages earlier, or has a genetic defect, which can pass on to the child, the egg donor with the help of hormone stimulation, produces many eggs. The eggs after maturity are obtained and fertilized with the sperm to form the embryo. The embryos are then inserted into the woman’s uterus.

Surrogacy

In surrogacy, the embryo formed by the egg of the mother and sperm of the father is placed into the uterus of a gestational surrogate. The surrogate will carry the baby till birth and then give the baby to the parents. It is legally agreed between the would-be parents and the surrogate woman that once the baby is born, he/she will be given to the parents.

ART techniques aim at curing infertility. Of course, these procedures give rise to a range of emotions. Regular doctor appointments, waiting time, many tests, high price, and feelings of confusion, frustration and anxiety are common.

The best way to deal with these emotions is to be aware of the procedure and clear your doubts by talking to your doctor. Once both of you are clear and agree to the procedure, things become much easier and less stressful.

Explore More Articles on IVF treatments

Does Paternal Age affect the Success of IVF?

IVF: How Does it Work?

Understanding the 6 Types of Assisted Reproductive Treatment

Everything You Need to Know about IVF

Things You Should Know Before Going for IVF

Top Tips to Deal with Anxiety Related to Infertility

What is Egg Freezing & How Does it Work?

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only, based on industry experience and secondary sources. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified expert for health or insurance-related decisions. Content is subject to change, refer to current policy wordings for specific ACKO details.

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