IVF
IVF is performed at the Institute of Life, IASO. The doctor follows the couple through every stage: choice of protocol, ovarian stimulation and ultrasound monitoring, egg retrieval, fertilisation, embryo transfer and support until the pregnancy test. The full text is available in Greek.
Methods
- Intrauterine insemination
- Natural-cycle IVF
- Mini IVF
- IVF
The rest of this page is available in Greek. View the Greek page
Frequently asked questions
How long does an IVF protocol take?
It depends on the protocol: the long agonist protocol starts with 10–15 days of suppression before stimulation, while the short antagonist protocol lasts about 10 days in total. Hormone measurements and ultrasound monitoring continue throughout.
How is egg retrieval done? Does it hurt?
It is a minor procedure under light sedation: the eggs are aspirated from the follicles with a needle under transvaginal ultrasound guidance. It takes a few minutes and you can go home a few hours later.
When is the embryo transfer done, and is anaesthesia needed?
Two to five days after fertilisation, the embryos are placed in the uterine cavity with a thin flexible catheter under ultrasound guidance. It is painless and needs no anaesthesia. The pregnancy test follows two weeks later.
What should I take during the attempt?
Every woman trying to conceive, naturally or with assistance, should take 400 μg of folic acid, omega-3 and omega-6, iodine, vitamin D and B-complex vitamins. After embryo transfer, support is tailored to your needs according to the doctor’s instructions.