Types of IVF – Treatment, Pregnancy, Cycles and Protocol

ByRohan Sharma
Updated: 21 May 2025, 11:00 am

With IVF, you have access to various treatment options that can support your fertility needs. It's important to understand the different types of IVF and the related protocols that can help you begin your pregnancy journey. Gaining clarity on the IVF cycles available will help you make informed decisions and improve your chances of starting your journey to parenthood.

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IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) is a treatment option if you are seeking assistance with fertility. If you are having difficulty conceiving, IVF can help by fertilising the eggs with sperm and then transferring the embryo into the uterus.

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There are different types of IVF personalised to address specific fertility issues you may face. Healthcare professionals assess your situation and recommend the most suitable option, whether it's conventional IVF, ICSI, or IVF with donor gametes.

It’s important to understand the various aspects of IVF so you can approach each step of the process fully informed and prepared.


IVF: An Overview

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a procedure where eggs are collected from your ovaries and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryos are then transferred to your uterus. IVF is suitable for various infertility issues, as it bypasses several natural barriers to pregnancy. It can be customised to meet your specific needs, offering hope even in challenging situations.


Benefits of choosing IVF

  • Increased chances of conception

IVF is known for providing higher success rates for most types of infertility problems. This includes blocked fallopian tubes or severe male infertility as well.


  • Customised treatment

You can choose from various protocols and techniques based on your medical history and fertility needs.


  • Genetic testing options

IVF allows for pre-implantation genetic testing, reducing the risk of inherited disorders.


  • Use of donor eggs or sperm

IVF enables conception even when your own eggs or sperm are not viable.


  • Embryo freezing

It’s best to consider preserving the embryos for future use. It can help you with all the flexibility in planning your family.



Types of IVF Treatments

There are many different kinds of IVF treatments, each one meant to solve particular fertility issues. Knowing these choices helps you to choose the most appropriate course of action for your situation.

  • Conventional IVF

Conventional IVF involves using hormones to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs. These eggs are collected and fertilised in a lab with sperm, and the best embryos are selected for transfer.


This approach is commonly used for general infertility, tubal damage, or unexplained infertility. While it requires regular monitoring and hormone injections, it offers high success rates.


  • ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection)

ICSI is a specialised IVF technique where a single sperm is directly injected into an egg. This approach is ideal if you or your partner faces severe male infertility, such as low sperm count or poor sperm motility. ICSI increases fertilisation rates and is often recommended when previous IVF cycles have failed or when using frozen sperm.


  • IVF with donor eggs

IVF with donor eggs may be an option if you're unable to produce viable eggs, which can sometimes be related to age, premature ovarian insufficiency, or certain genetic conditions. The donor eggs are fertilised with sperm, and the resulting embryo is then transferred to your uterus. This approach often offers a higher chance of pregnancy and is commonly considered after repeated IVF attempts or when egg quality is a concern.


  • IVF with donor sperm

If your partner has severe male infertility or genetic conditions, IVF with donor sperm is an option. Donor sperm is used to fertilise your eggs, and the resulting embryos are transferred to your uterus. This approach is also chosen by single women or same-sex couples wishing to conceive.


  • IVF with gestational carriers

IVF with a gestational carrier may be an option if you're unable to carry a pregnancy due to medical reasons, uterine conditions, or repeated pregnancy loss. The embryo, created using your eggs and sperm or donor cells, is placed in the carrier’s womb. The gestational carrier has no genetic link to the baby.


IVF Protocols

IVF protocols refer to the specific steps and medications used during the IVF process. Choosing the right protocol is essential for optimal results and depends on your age, ovarian reserve, and medical history.


  • Stimulation protocols

Stimulation protocols involve using hormonal injections to encourage your ovaries to produce multiple eggs. The dosage and duration are personalised to your needs, aiming to maximise egg quality while minimising side effects. Protocols may be standard, mild, or involve minimal stimulation, depending on your response to medication.


  • Triggering ovulation

Once your eggs are mature, an injection is given to trigger ovulation. This step ensures eggs are ready for retrieval at the optimal time. Timing is critical, as it affects the quality and number of eggs collected. Your doctor will monitor hormone levels and follicle growth to determine the best moment for the trigger.


  • Egg retrieval procedures

Egg retrieval is a minor surgical procedure performed under sedation. A thin needle is guided through the vaginal wall to collect eggs from your ovaries. The process is quick, usually lasting 20-30 minutes, and you can return home the same day. Proper preparation and aftercare are important for a smooth recovery.


  • Embryo transfer protocols

Using a thin catheter, embryo transfer places one or more embryos into your uterus. Your age, embryo quality, and previous IVF results help determine the timing and number of embryos transferred. A gentle approach helps minimise discomfort and improve the chances of implantation.



Pregnancy Outcomes in IVF

Several variables, including the kind of IVF, your age, and general health, can influence IVF pregnancy results.


  • Success rates of different IVF types

Success rates can vary based on the type of IVF, your age, and your fertility diagnosis. IVF may offer higher chances of success, especially in younger women, but results can differ for each individual.

ICSI and donor egg IVF may also show promising results. While natural and minimal stimulation cycles may have lower success rates, they can be gentler on your body. It’s best to consider all options to find the best approach for you.


  • Factors influencing pregnancy success

Multiple elements affect IVF success, such as your age, egg and sperm quality, embryo development, and uterine health. Lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol use, and stress can also impact outcomes. Previous pregnancies, the cause of infertility, and the expertise of your fertility team play significant roles.


  • Multiple pregnancies and associated risks

IVF can be a successful treatment, but it’s important to understand the possible risks. These may include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which can happen as a response to fertility medication, as well as the risk of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. If more than one embryo is transferred, the chance of having twins or triplets increases.

While this might seem like a positive outcome, multiple pregnancies carry a higher risk of complications, such as premature birth, low birth weight, and health issues for both you and your babies.

To help lower these risks and still give you a good chance of success, single embryo transfer is often recommended, especially when the embryo quality is good. Your clinic will work with you to decide what’s right for your situation, always aiming for a safe and healthy pregnancy.


IVF Cycles Explained

IVF cycles are applied throughout your fertility treatment. Every cycle type has its own advantages and is selected depending on your particular requirements and reaction to prior therapies.

  • Standard IVF cycle

A typical IVF cycle consists of ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilisation, and fresh embryo transfer, all done within the same cycle. Especially for younger women or those with good ovarian reserve, this strategy is appropriate for most patients and has great success rates.

  • Natural cycle IVF

Natural cycle IVF skips hormonal stimulation and relies on your body’s natural ovulation. One egg is retrieved and fertilised, with the embryo transferred in the same cycle. This method is ideal if you are sensitive to medications or prefer a more natural approach, though success rates may be lower per cycle.


  • Modified natural cycle IVF

Modified natural cycle IVF combines minimal hormonal stimulation with your natural cycle. The goal is to collect one or two eggs, which may reduce the need for medication and minimise side effects.

This approach offers a balance between natural and stimulated cycles, making it a good option if you have a low ovarian reserve or prefer a gentler process. It might be worth considering if you are looking for a less invasive treatment.

  • Frozen cycle IVF

Frozen cycle IVF is the process of thawing and transferring embryos from an earlier cycle that were previously frozen. This strategy lets you be flexible with timing, lowers the chance of ovarian hyperstimulation, and could help you postpone embryo transfer for medical or personal reasons.


Emotional and Psychological Considerations

IVF can be emotionally challenging, impacting your mental health and wellbeing. Addressing these aspects is crucial for a positive experience and better outcomes.

  • Mental health impacts during IVF treatment

You may experience stress, anxiety, or depression during IVF due to uncertainty, hormonal changes, and the demands of treatment. Emotional ups and downs are common, and it is important to acknowledge your feelings and seek support when needed.

  • Coping strategies

Effective coping strategies include mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises. Setting realistic expectations, maintaining open communication with your partner, and participating in support groups can help you manage stress and stay positive throughout your IVF journey.

  • Importance of support networks

A strong support network of family, friends, or peer groups provides emotional comfort and practical help. Sharing your experiences with others who understand the IVF process can reduce feelings of isolation and boost your resilience during challenging times.


When To Seek Medical Advice

Timely intervention and improved results depend on knowing when to see a reproductive expert.


  • Signs that may require professional evaluation

    • Irregular or absent periods
    • Repeated IVF failures
    • Severe pelvic pain
    • Unexplained infertility
    • History of genetic disorders

  • Importance of discussing treatment options with a fertility expert

A fertility expert may evaluate your particular circumstances, clarify all possible courses of action, and customise a treatment strategy to maximise your prospects of success. Open conversations guarantee that you are completely aware and at ease with your decisions.

IVF offers a variety of treatment options to help you manage fertility challenges. Following the IVF protocols is important, as they support both your fertility treatment and the emotional aspects involved.

Understanding the different types of IVF, protocols, and cycles helps you make informed decisions. Connecting with your fertility expert and receiving timely support enhances your chances of a successful pregnancy.


FAQs on Types of IVF – Treatment, Pregnancy, Cycles and Protocols

  1. What factors can affect the success rates of IVF?
    Your age, egg and sperm quality, embryo growth, uterine health, lifestyle choices, and the knowledge of your fertility team determine success rates.
  2. How many cycles of IVF are typically needed to achieve pregnancy?
    Though it depends on personal variables, including age, fertility diagnosis, and treatment response, on average, three IVF rounds could be required to get pregnant.
Disclaimer: Medically approved by Dr Rohan Palshetkar, Consultant IVF Specialist, Bloom IVF, Palshetkar Patil Nursing Home, Opera House

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