IVF (in-vitro fertilisation)
In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) with or without intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), using gentle stimulation protocols tailored to your individual response.
The Journey
1
Initial Consultation with advanced ultrasound scanning (60 minutes)
Recommend tests:
- Further assessments (e.g. AMH, FSH, LH, Testosterone tests) as and when necessary
- Routine screening tests (e.g. Hepatitis B, C, HIV, Rubella) as pre-requirements
- Special screening tests ONLY if required
2
A pre-treatment Follow-up with the consultant to finalise the treatment plan (15–30 minutes)
3
Formulate treatment protocols
- Mild ovarian stimulation in a “short” protocol
- Natural or Natural modified cycles
- Luteal phase support
4
Nurse’s consultation (usually virtually, can be face-to-face)
- Signing relevant consents
- Issuing detailed treatment planning
- Self-injection training with live demo
- Arrangement for medications
5
Treatment Monitoring scans
To observe the development of the follicles in response to ovarian stimulation. Typically, 3–4 scan appointments are booked, every alternate day, starting from cycle day 5 or 6.
6
Egg retrieval procedure
This procedure is undertaken in the Operating Theatre under sedation or anaesthesia at a pre-fixed time schedule as a day-case basis. Partner or someone needs to take you home after few hours of observation.
7
Embryo transfer procedure
A fresh embryo transfer is planned usually 5 days after the egg collection. Additional viable embryo(s), if any are frozen.
8
Pregnancy test
It is done as either self-testing of urine or by blood test if required on a given date following an embryo transfer.
9
Pregnancy scan
An early pregnancy scan is scheduled at 6+ weeks of pregnancy to confirm viability and location of the pregnancy.
10
Counselling and post-treatment follow-up appointment
Are offered in case of a negative outcome.
Additional Procedure(s)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gentle IVF and how does it differ from conventional IVF?
Gentle or Mild IVF uses lower than conventional stimulation dose, typically ≤ 150 IU/ day of FSH, to try to encourage only healthier follicles to grow. In contrast, conventional ovarian stimulation entails higher daily dose to try to retrieve as many eggs as possible. Evidence from randomised controlled trials show that despite obtaining fewer eggs, the pregnancy (live birth) rates with gentle or mild stimulation is no different from those of conventional IVF, while mild stimulation is safer, kinder on patients and more affordable.
Is gentle IVF as effective as conventional IVF?
The evidence from randomised controlled trials showed gentle IVF (or a stimulation dose of ≤ 150 IU/ day is as effective as higher stimulation conventional IVF with no difference in the take-home baby (live birth) rates per fresh IVF cycles as well as cumulative live birth rates.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can self-refer by contacting us directly. If you do have a GP referral or previous test results, please bring them to your appointment — but they are not required to book.
I'm over 40, is this approach suitable for me?
If reasonable, we offer IVF treatment with own eggs up to 46 years to those who wish to try with their own eggs before considering donor eggs or to those who do not consider donor eggs treatment as an option at all. As a successful pregnancy (live birth) is almost unheard of in women over 46 years, we find offering treatment with own eggs would be unethical.
How will IVF treatment affect my daily life?
Most patients continue working and daily activities with minimal disruption. The stimulation phase is shorter (5–9 days vs 10–14 days), involves fewer injections, and causes milder symptoms. Research shows dropout rates are 45% lower with gentler approaches — reflecting a more tolerable treatment experience.
More questions? We're here to help. View all FAQs
Ready to start your IVF journey?
Our team is here to guide and support you at every step. Book your consultation today with Dr Adrija Kumar Datta.
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