Don't Start IVF Without These Essential Tests!

In the journey towards embracing the joy of parenthood through In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), the first and foremost step is to undergo a series of essential tests and evaluations. This process ensures that both partners are medically fit and ready to proceed with the IVF procedure, which is a part of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART). Here, we delineate the necessary tests that couples need to undertake as a part of their preparation for IVF.

For Women

1. Blood Group and Rh Factor Determination

Before embarking on the IVF journey, it is vital to know the blood group and Rh factor of the woman. This information is critical in preventing potential complications during pregnancy.

2. Comprehensive Blood and Urine Analysis

A series of blood tests including clinical blood analysis, coagulogram, blood glucose, and biochemical blood analysis, along with a general urine test, are conducted. These tests are generally valid for a month and help in assessing the overall health status.

3. Infectious Diseases Screening

Screening for infectious diseases such as Syphilis, HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C is mandatory. These tests, valid for three months, are crucial in preventing the transmission of infections to the baby.

4. TORCH Infections

Blood tests for TORCH infections including Herpes, Toxoplasmosis, Chlamydia, Cytomegalovirus, and Rubella are conducted to prevent potential risks to the fetus. These tests have a validity of one year.

5. Hormonal Analysis

A detailed hormonal analysis, including tests for Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Estradiol (E2), Prolactin, and Progesterone, is performed to assess the reproductive health of the woman. These tests are valid for a year.

6. Folliculometry

A folliculometry is a vital test that involves monitoring the growth and development of ovarian follicles through a series of ultrasounds. This procedure is essential as it helps in determining the optimal time for egg retrieval, ensuring a higher success rate in the IVF process. It provides detailed insights into the ovarian reserve and helps in customizing the stimulation protocol to enhance the chances of a successful pregnancy.

7. Cardiac Evaluation

An Electrocardiogram (ECG) is conducted to ensure the woman's heart health, with a validity of one year.

8. Cervical Screening

Cervical screening involves a cytological examination of smears from the cervix (PAP test) to detect any abnormalities. This test is valid for a year.

9. Bacterioscopic Analysis

A bacterioscopic analysis of discharges from various points including the vagina, urethra, and cervical canal is conducted to prevent infections. This test is valid for a month.

10. Therapist Consultation

A consultation with a therapist to evaluate the somatic health and to ensure there are no contraindications for carrying a pregnancy. This evaluation is valid for six months.

11. Breast Ultrasound

A breast ultrasound is conducted to assess the health of the mammary glands, with a validity of six months.

For Men

1. Blood Group and Rh Factor Determination

Just like women, men also need to undergo tests to determine their blood group and Rh factor.

2. Infectious Diseases Screening

Men are also screened for infectious diseases such as Syphilis, HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. These tests are valid for three months.

3. Fluorography

A fluorography test is conducted to assess the lung health of the man, with a validity of one year.

4. Sperm Analysis

A sperm analysis or spermiogram is conducted to evaluate the quality and quantity of sperm, which is a vital factor in the IVF process.

The Importance of Karyotyping

Karyotyping is a diagnostic test that provides a visual representation of an individual's chromosomes. This test is crucial in the realm of IVF for several reasons:

1. Detection of Chromosomal Abnormalities

Karyotyping can identify chromosomal abnormalities, such as extra or missing chromosomes, which can lead to conditions like Down syndrome, Turner syndrome, or Klinefelter syndrome. Recognizing these abnormalities beforehand can help in making informed decisions during the IVF process.

2. Understanding Recurrent Miscarriages

For couples who have experienced recurrent miscarriages, karyotyping can offer insights. Chromosomal abnormalities in either partner can increase the risk of miscarriages. Identifying and understanding these can guide reproductive specialists in offering the best course of action.

3. Assessing Fertility Issues

Certain chromosomal rearrangements can be a cause of infertility. Karyotyping can detect these rearrangements, providing clarity on the underlying issues and guiding the treatment process.

4. Guiding Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)

For embryos created through IVF, Preimplantation Genetic Testing can be used to screen for specific chromosomal abnormalities before implantation. Knowledge from karyotyping can guide this process, ensuring only healthy embryos are implanted.

5. Informed Decision Making

Karyotyping provides couples with valuable information that can influence their decisions during the IVF process. Whether it's a choice to proceed with IVF, opt for donor eggs or sperm, or consider adoption, having a clear chromosomal picture ensures decisions are made with the best interests of the future child in mind.

Karyotyping plays a pivotal role in the IVF journey, offering insights that can significantly impact the outcome. It ensures that couples are equipped with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of IVF, increasing the chances of a successful and healthy pregnancy.

Preparations for Both Partners

Embarking on the journey of IVF requires both partners to foster a healthy lifestyle. It is highly recommended to relinquish harmful habits, moderate the consumption of coffee and black tea, and engage in regular, moderate physical exercise. Equally important is nurturing a positive psychological mindset to facilitate a smoother journey through the IVF process.

Approach the preparation phase for IVF with utmost responsibility, adhering to all the guidance provided by your reproductive specialist. This diligence will significantly enhance the prospects of a successful pregnancy and the birth of a healthy child.

For a deeper understanding of the intricacies of IVF and expert guidance on preparing for it, the specialists at Delivering Dreams agency are at your service. Our collaboration with the best clinics and professionals in Ukraine ensures access to state-of-the-art embryological laboratories. Delivering Dreams network includes experienced embryologists, certified specialists of international repute, reproductive specialists, obstetricians-gynecologists, geneticists, and other renowned doctors. This collaborative approach ensures patients benefit from the highest success rates in IVF programs.