In vitro fertilization embryo transfer processes and pathway: A review from practice perspective

Abstract

Infertility affects approximately 10%–15% of reproductive-aged couples. In Nigeria, it is an important reproductive health issue and a common reason for gynecological clinic consultations. Significant improvements in fertility treatment have made it possible for many patients to conceive with medical assistance. For example, women with fallopian tube blockage can conceive with in vitro fertilization (IVF). Modern IVF generally involves controlled ovarian stimulation with exogenous gonadotropins, oocytes collection through transvaginal ultrasonographic-guided aspiration, coculture of eggs and sperm in culture (or intracytoplasmic injection of sperm into the oocyte), and placement of the resultant embryos (2–5 d later) directly into the uterus. Some of the major drawbacks to IVF are its high cost of treatment and paucity of availability in our sub-Saharan region.