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What is IVM?
In vitro maturation (IVM) is a fertility treatment where the eggs are collected from the ovaries when they are immature and then matured in a laboratory. After maturation, the eggs are fertilized and replaced in the womb.
How is IVM carried out?
- Eggs are collected from the ovaries using ultrasound guidance when they are immature, meaning the woman needs to take fewer hormones to stimulate the ovaries than in IVF.
- The eggs are matured in a laboratory for one to two days.
- The eggs are fertilized with the partner or donor sperm and are replaced back in the womb, as in IVF or ICSI.
Who is a suitable candidate for IVM?
IVM is suitable for women at risk of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, for example women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. IVM does not require a daily injection of hormones so there is no risk of developing the condition. IVM is an alternative to IVF for younger women as it is less expensive and time consuming than IVF.
What are the chances of success with IVM?
According to the Babyworld, Danish scientists have monitored a 30 per cent success rates using IVM. However, according to the Human Embryology and Fertilisation Authority the chances of success with IVM are similar to those with IVF except there is an added risk that not every egg will be sufficiently mature at the end of the process.
Duration of procedure/surgery:One full cycle of IVM takes between 4 to 6 weeks – the same as an IVF cycle.
Egg collection during IVM takes around 30 minutes to an hour.
Days admitted:None – IVM is an outpatient procedure.
Anesthesia:Egg collection in IVM typically takes place under sedation and not anesthesia.
Recovery:IVM requires a minimal downtime of a few minutes following egg retrieval.
Risks:- Fewer eggs collected than with IVF procedure.
- Infection and bleeding following egg collection.
- IVM is less successful with age.
- Multiple births.
After care:- You may experience cramps and discomfort after egg collection that can be eased with pain killers.