In Vitro Fertilization

IVF stands for In vitro fertilization. It is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) used to help couples who are struggling with infertility to conceive a child. IVF involves retrieving eggs from a woman's ovaries and fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory dish. Once fertilized, the embryos are then transferred back into the woman's uterus in hopes of a successful pregnancy. IVF may be recommended in cases where a woman has blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, a man has a low sperm count or poor sperm motility, or if other fertility treatments have failed. The process typically involves a series of hormone injections to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, which are then retrieved via a minor surgical procedure. After fertilization, the embryos are cultured in a laboratory for several days before being transferred to the woman's uterus.

• Equipped with advanced technology and facilities, we prioritize the comfort and well-being of our patients, providing them with the necessary support to navigate the IVF process successfully.

• With comprehensive diagnostic testing, we identify underlying fertility issues that could impact the success of the treatment.

• Our hospital also offers supportive services to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological stress associated with the process, including counseling and other resources to ensure they feel comfortable and confident throughout the treatment process

Why GPH for IVF ?

Dr. Gopala Pillai's Hospital, founded in 1986, was one of the earliest IVF centers in South India and has since become a trusted healthcare facility for infertility treatment. With a dedicated team of well-trained staff, GPH is known for offering affordable and effective infertility solutions.

• Dr. Gopala Pillai's Hospital has a team of highly trained fertility specialists who provide personalized care to patients, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

Preparation For IVF

Before beginning IVF treatment at Dr. Gopala Pillai's Hospital, we advise couples to focus on their overall health and lifestyle. Our team provides guidance on maintaining a healthy approach to life and discusses any health concerns or medications that could affect the success of the treatment. We take a thorough and personalized approach to ensure that couples are well-prepared for the IVF process and have the greatest chances of success. By addressing any potential health issues beforehand, we aim to increase the likelihood of a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Prevention is better than cure

Smoking

As there is strong evidence that female smokers have reduced fertility and a higher miscarriage rate, this is the time to stop. Smoking during pregnancy has adverse effects on the growing baby and can contribute to many childhood illnesses. It is important to avoid smoking on the day of egg collection, as smoking can lead to anaesthetic difficulties.

Alcohol

While it is not possible to set “safe” limits of alcohol consumption, higher intakes are known to be harmful to the developing baby. The National Health and Medical Research Council (NH&MRC) recommends no more than two drinks per day for women and four for men, with at least two alcohol-free days per week, and considers abstinence to be desirable during pregnancy.

Diet

A normal well-balanced diet, with plenty of leafy green vegetables for folic acid, is encouraged. The NH&MRC recommends that women take folic acid supplements of 0.5mg daily for the month before pregnancy and until the pregnancy is over 12 weeks, in the hope of reducing the risk of neural tube defects (most commonly spina bifida) in their babies.

Caffeine

High caffeine intake has been linked with female infertility in some research studies, but the reason for this is not obvious. Therefore it is worth considering a moderate coffee intake if you are trying to get pregnant.

Exercise

Regular moderate exercise is totally acceptable. There is some evidence that strenuous exercise performed more than four times a week during pregnancy can have adverse effects. Frequent strenuous exercise, such as some athletic training programs, can also affect the body’s hormone balance and thus the woman’s fertility.

Emotional

Direct relationships between stress and fertility have not been established; certainly some people conceive at times of high stress in their lives, while others will respond with ovulation disorders or a decreased libido. It makes sense to reduce stress in your life while undergoing IVF and trying to achieve a pregnancy.

Medical Tests

Prior to commencing the IVF program your consultant will order several routine tests. Each woman will have her rubella (German Measles) immunity checked (even if vaccinated in the past as immunity can fall). If the level is too low, a vaccination will be performed before attempting pregnancy, and a wait of 6 weeks is usually recommended before conceiving.