I would like any information you could give me about invitro fertilization.
Answer--
In vitro fertilization is a procedure that found originally its most important use in bypassing blocked tubes in achieving conception. By retrieving several eggs from the ovary, originally by a surgical procedure called laparoscopy, but now by a needle inserted transvaginally, and placing them in contact with sperm, and allowing them to grow outside the body for several days, one can then put back the embryo (by now 12 to 16 cells) in the uterus so it continues to grow. The "in vitro" comes from the latin meaning "outside the body". In order to prepare the ovary for retrieval of the egg, some doctors use a natural cycle, while the majority uses a "stimulated cycle", that is, they use drugs like Pergonal to stimulate the ovary to produce several eggs, thus increasing the chances for conception. Other infertility problems like endometriosis, or low sperm count can also be treated by this method. Since the questions was very broad I hope this answers most of it. I will be happy to abswer more specific questions regarding this interesting subject.
--
Sincerely
Ed Kneler, MD
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
Click here to review
previous Ob-Gyn Clinic consultations