Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART): Process and Success Rate

What Are Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)?

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) is a selection of medical procedures that help people achieve pregnancy by working with eggs, sperm, or embryos outside the body. These methods are employed when natural conception is challenging or even impossible due to various fertility issues. ART encompasses techniques like in vitro fertilisation (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and the freezing of eggs or embryos. It's often suggested for couples facing infertility due to problems like ovulation disorders, blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, male factor infertility, or even unexplained reasons.

Types of Assisted Reproductive Techniques

• In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) : In IVF, the egg is retrieved, fertilised in a laboratory dish and then implanted inside the uterus, resulting in pregnancy.
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) : A sperm is directly injected into an egg to induce pregnancy.
• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) : During ovulation, a concentration of sperm is placed directly in the uterus.
• Egg Donation : A woman donates her eggs to another woman for her to conceive.
• Surrogacy : An embryo is placed into another woman’s uterus for conception due to the inability of the uterus.
• Cryopreservation : This technique is used to freeze and store reproductive cells like eggs and sperm for future use.

Step-by-Step Process of Assisted Reproductive Techniques

Usually, the ART process is as follows:

• Initial Consultation Testing : Doctors often conduct a detailed consultation, inquiring about a patient's medical history and assessing fertility challenges. Some preliminary diagnostic tests are performed to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
• Ovarian Stimulation : Certain hormonal medications are administered to stimulate the ovaries. This will result in the development of many follicles.
• Egg Retrieval & Sperm Collection : Through constant monitoring, eggs are retrieved from the ovaries when they reach ideal maturity. The sperm is collected from the partner.
• Fertilisation in the Lab : The collected sperm and egg are then fertilised in the lab either through insemination or IUI.
• Embryo Culture : The embryo is closely monitored and grown in the lab. For many days, they are just there for quality and viability over several days.
• Embryo Transfer : One or two more embryos are transferred to the uterus for implantation and pregnancy.
• Pregnancy Test & Follow-up : After two weeks post-transfer, a pregnancy test is conducted and then follows typical maternal wellbeing.

Note: The specific steps and protocols may vary according to the assisted reproductive technique employed, such as conventional IVF or ICSI, and are customised to individual patient needs.

Success Rate of Assisted Reproductive Techniques

The success rates of an assisted reproductive pregnancy hugely depend on multiple factors other than the technique’s protocols. The patient’s age, the cause of infertility, and the expertise of the fertility clinic all encompass how successful the pregnancy might be. Women below the age of 35 have a higher chance of pregnancy, as the egg quality and quantity are still preserved. As age increases, egg quality begins to diminish. Additionally, for every underlying cause of infertility, the treatment varies, as well as the chances of pregnancy. Overall, ART is a hope for many individuals.

Risks and Limitations of ART

Some risks and limitations are involved in assisted-reproduction methods (ART), which patients must be informed about.

• A principal concern is multiple pregnancies that escalate the odds of complications, preterm delivery and low birth-weight.
• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), a side effect of fertility drugs, can lead to abdominal pain, bloating and, in rare cases, serious complications.
• Furthermore, treatment can be an emotional and psychological burden that may necessitate supportive care.

These risks are effectively minimised by attentive medical oversight and customised therapy regimens, which greatly mitigate the danger of complications and enhance the outcome. As such, ART is not without its own risks; sufficient healthcare advice is essential to effectively approaching these and ensuring the best possible chances of a successful pregnancy.

Cost of ART in India

The cost of assisted reproductive techniques in India ranges from one place to another, and depending on various factors such as the type of procedure and the location of a clinic, along with medication. For example, an IVF cycle costs an average of ₹1.2 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh. This figure usually includes consultation, ovarian stimulation, egg collection, in vitro fertilisation in the lab, embryo transfer, and standard medications. If you visit clinics in cities or premium hospitals, the charges may be slightly higher. Additional charges may be applied for the use of donated eggs or sperm, comprehensive genetic testing, or extended embryo storage.

Conclusion

To conclude, assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs) are a saving grace for couples who face fertility challenges. In times of adversity, couples should feel confident in resting their dreams of parenthood in the hands of fertility clinics. Though success rates vary, pregnancy chances are still high with the aid of assisted reproductive techniques. Always choose the best healthcare partner in your journey towards parenthood.