Body Area: Female Specific

Body Parts: Reproductive System

Symptoms: Infertility

Description:
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a technique where the egg is fertilized outside of the body and the embryo is then introduced back into the woman's uterus. This technique can be useful if the woman's Fallopian tubes are blocked or damaged or if the man has abnormal semen parameters. Other explained or unexplained infertility may also lead to the use of In Vitro Fertilization. First, eggs must be collected (see Egg Donation for description) and on the same day that the eggs are collected, a semen sample is also taken from the male partner. Many fertility specialists will examine the sperm to ensure that the most motile, normal looking cells are used. After fertilization, the embryo is transferred back to the uterus with a fine catheter.