IVF Treatment
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is the most widely used modern reproductive medicine technique for couples who cannot conceive naturally. The female partner’s ovaries are stimulated with controlled hormonal medication, mature eggs are fertilized in the laboratory with the male partner’s sperm, and the highest-quality embryo is transferred to the uterus. At Doğuş IVF Center the cycle takes around 18–22 days, supported by our embryology team, modern laboratory and individualized protocols that consistently deliver high pregnancy rates in Cyprus.
What Is IVF Treatment?
Although the term “test-tube baby” is widely used, IVF actually refers to fertilizing eggs with sperm in a culture medium under laboratory conditions. In conventional IVF, eggs and prepared sperm are placed side-by-side and natural fertilization takes place. At Doğuş IVF Center we choose between conventional IVF and ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) based on the couple’s diagnosis. In both protocols, the resulting embryos are cultured for 3–5 days in incubators and the strongest embryo is transferred to the uterus.
Stages of IVF Treatment
The cycle begins on day 2 or 3 of menstruation. The patient self-administers daily injections to stimulate the ovaries while ultrasound and hormone tests track follicle growth. Once follicles reach the optimal size, a trigger injection (hCG) is given. Egg retrieval (OPU) is performed under light sedation in 15–20 minutes, and a sperm sample is collected from the partner the same day. Fertilized eggs are evaluated daily and the highest-grade embryo is selected for transfer on day 3 or day 5. Twelve days after the transfer, a beta-hCG blood test confirms pregnancy.
IVF Medications Explained
GnRH analogues (Lucrin, Suprefact), antagonists (Cetrotide, Orgalutran) and gonadotropins (Puregon, Gonal-F, Menogon) are used so the ovaries produce multiple eggs at once. Most are subcutaneous injections that the patient gives at home. A precisely timed hCG trigger (Pregnyl) is used to complete egg maturation, and oocyte retrieval takes place 35–36 hours later. After embryo transfer, vaginal or injectable progesterone supports the uterine lining until pregnancy is confirmed.
Factors Affecting IVF Success
The most influential factor in IVF success is the female partner’s age; pregnancy rates are markedly higher under 35. Ovarian reserve (AMH and antral follicle count), sperm parameters, embryo quality, endometrial thickness and general health all matter. Smoking, obesity, untreated thyroid disorders and vitamin D deficiency reduce success. At Doğuş IVF Center every patient receives a personalized protocol; medication doses are tuned to AMH, FSH, age and previous treatment history.
Pre-Treatment Tests
Before starting an IVF cycle the female partner undergoes a gynecological exam, transvaginal ultrasound, hormone panel (FSH, LH, E2, AMH, prolactin, TSH), fasting glucose, complete blood count and an infectious-disease panel (HIV, HBV, HCV, syphilis). The male partner provides a semen analysis and the same infection panel. If indicated, hysterosalpingography (HSG) evaluates the uterus and fallopian tubes. The protocol is finalized after a physician reviews all results.
Why Choose IVF in Cyprus
Northern Cyprus has a flexible legal framework that allows donor treatments and advanced techniques such as PGT-A, broadening the options compared to many neighboring countries. Doğuş IVF Center offers all-inclusive packages covering flights, accommodation and clinic visits for international patients. Our European-standard laboratory, experienced embryologists and consistently high pregnancy rates make Cyprus an attractive destination for IVF.
Treatment Steps
- 1Medication (Day 2-3)
- 2Ovarian Stimulation (10-14 days)
- 3Egg Retrieval (OPU)
- 4Sperm Preparation
- 5ICSI/IVF Fertilization
- 6Embryo Culture (3-5 days)
- 7Embryo Transfer
- 8Pregnancy Test (12 days)
Who Is It For?
- Women with blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
- Women with ovulation disorders or polycystic ovary syndrome
- Women diagnosed with endometriosis
- Men with low sperm count or motility
- Couples with unexplained infertility
- Couples who failed prior intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycles
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an IVF cycle take?
From the start of menstruation to the pregnancy test, an average cycle lasts 18–22 days. Patients usually need to stay in Cyprus for about 7–10 days.
Is IVF treatment painful?
Egg retrieval is performed under light sedation, so it is not painful. Stimulation injections are subcutaneous with thin needles and cause minimal discomfort.
How many attempts may be needed?
Many couples conceive on the first attempt. Depending on age, embryo quality and other factors, 2–3 cycles may be needed; frozen embryo transfer keeps follow-up cycles affordable.
Is there a risk of multiple pregnancy?
Transferring more than one embryo increases the chance of twins or triplets. At Doğuş IVF Center we typically recommend elective single embryo transfer (eSET).
Can I keep working during treatment?
You can continue daily life except on the egg-retrieval day. We advise avoiding heavy exercise, alcohol and smoking.