How Long Does an IVF Cycle Take on Average? Navigating the IVF Journey with and without Genetic Testing

Greetings from Amma Bear,

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Embarking on an IVF journey can feel like navigating uncharted waters. The path may seem complex, and each person's experience can vary. But knowing what to expect can provide some grounding amidst the waves of uncertainty.

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Let's break down the IVF process, considering both the typical timeline and the extended timeline if you're opting for Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT).

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The Typical IVF Timeline: A General Overview

Day 1 - Start of Menstrual Cycle: The onset of your period marks the beginning of the IVF cycle.

Days 2-4: Baseline ultrasound and blood tests to assess hormone levels and ovarian reserves.

Days 3-12 (Approximately 8-14 days): Ovarian stimulation using fertility drugs to boost the development of multiple eggs. This phase involves regular monitoring through blood tests and ultrasounds.

Around Day 14: Egg retrieval, which is a minor surgical procedure.

Day 16-17: Fertilization of eggs and start of embryo development in the lab.

Days 19-21 (3-5 days post egg retrieval): Embryo transfer, where one or more healthy embryos are selected and transferred to the uterus.

Day 28: Blood test to determine if implantation has taken place and if pregnancy has been achieved.

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Including Genetic Testing: An Extended Timeline

If you're opting for PGT, the timeline shifts a bit:

Days 1-5: As with the typical IVF cycle, these days include the onset of your period, baseline ultrasound, blood tests, and the beginning of ovarian stimulation.

Day 14: Egg retrieval.

Days 16-21: After fertilization, embryos develop for about five to six days in the lab. At this point, cells are biopsied from each embryo for genetic testing.

Weeks 5-6: While you await genetic test results, the embryos deemed healthy are frozen. The testing results usually come back in one to two weeks.

Subsequent Cycle (typically 1-2 months later): Once you have your results, and after ensuring optimal uterine conditions, a Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) takes place, using the healthy, genetically-tested embryos.

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Factors Influencing the Length of an IVF Cycle:

The exact timeline can differ based on individual responses to medications, clinic protocols, and other factors. For instance, if your doctor recommends a month of birth control before starting stimulation, this would add time to the front end of the cycle.

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Being well-informed can help manage expectations and emotions as you venture through the ebbs and flows of this journey.You’ve got this.

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With admiration for the steps you're making,

Amma Bear

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Sources:

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