IVM, distinct from IVF, is an assisted reproductive technology that involves maturing eggs in a laboratory before fertilization. Instead of administering hormones to mature eggs inside the woman's ovaries (as with IVF), immature eggs are retrieved and then matured outside the body before they're fertilized with sperm. This minimizes the need for ovary-stimulating drugs.
Procedure
Unlike IVF where mature eggs are retrieved, IVM involves collecting immature
eggs from the ovaries without extensive hormonal stimulation.
The collected immature eggs are then matured in the lab over a period of 1-2
days.
As with IVF, sperm is collected from a partner or donor, prepared for
fertilization.
Once the eggs have matured, they are fertilized with the prepared sperm in a
laboratory setting.
Post fertilization, the embryos are cultured and monitored in the lab for a few
days.
Healthy embryos are selected and transferred back into the woman's uterus in
the hope they'll implant and result in a pregnancy.
Why It Should Be Done
Ideal for women who want to avoid or cannot tolerate ovary-stimulating
drugs used in traditional IVF.
Often recommended for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who risk
ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) with conventional IVF.
As it often requires fewer drugs and fewer monitoring visits, it can be more affordable
than traditional IVF.
Who Should Do It
Those who are at risk of OHSS, women with PCOS, individuals who prefer fewer hormones and drugs, or those looking for a more economical alternative to IVF.
Success Rate
The success of IVM, like IVF, depends on various factors including age, infertility reason, and egg and sperm quality. Historically, IVM has had a lower success rate than traditional IVF, but advancements are improving these rates. As of now, depending on the individual circumstances, IVM may have a success rate ranging from 30-40% per cycle, but this can vary widely and is always evolving with advancing technology and methods.