In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technique that helps couples dealing with infertility get pregnant and have children. Consisting of many complex steps, IVF treatment yields the highest success rate of interventions of its kind. Several factors can increase or decrease the chances of conception with IVF. The whole intervention is usually completed over a month, with an additional two weeks to see the results.
Each experience with IVF is unique. However, a typical first appointment at Acıbadem might look something like this. First, the patient will be greeted at the front desk and escorted to the physician’s office, where they will speak with the physician for about an hour. Next, the patient will meet a nurse who will help them implement the doctor’s orders. Acıbadem International Patient Center will plan every step in detail. The patient will receive a lot of information along the way, and Acıbadem will always keep in touch. Patients should feel free to take notes and ask questions during the consultation process. We welcome patients to call or email us with any questions or concerns that arise at any time.
It is estimated that nearly 15% of all couples are affected by infertility. Fortunately, we have many tools today to aid conception, and they are evolving to help us achieve better outcomes. In the case of IVF treatment, the most suitable candidates are women who suffer from irregular ovulation cycles, blocked fallopian tubes, and polycystic ovarian syndrome, and men with a low sperm count or irregularly shaped sperm.
Doctors used to say that the main symptom of infertility was not getting pregnant while having regular sexual intercourse for at least 12 months. In most cases, there would be no other visible symptoms. It is recommended for a couple to see a doctor when they have been regularly trying to conceive for at least one year if the woman is below 35 years of age; after six months if the woman is 35 years or older; and immediately if the woman is over 40 years.
According to general statistics, nearly 40% of all infertility causes are related to women, 40% are related to men, and 20% are unexplained infertility issues. What is behind those numbers is vital, as the primary cause defines the treatment and determines successful outcomes. At Acibadem, we conduct an extensive testing and evaluation process to accurately identify reproductive problems and devise appropriate solutions. Blocked fallopian tubes, ovulation problems, endometriosis, advanced maternal age, low sperm count or motility, and immunological factors can all cause fertility issues, and each requires a different treatment modality.
Since 1998, Acibadem Reproductive Medicine & Infertility Centers have helped couples become parents. Each year, more than 15,000 families from all around the world choose Acibadem to fulfill their most precious dreams. Their trust in our accumulated experience is our best advantage. For patients considering IVF in Turkey, we provide a one-stop solution.
Unlike conventional IVF clinics, our Reproductive Medicine & Infertility Centers can provide a full-scope, 360-degree service to couples facing fertility problems, with our holistic approach, renowned specialists in all medical areas, and modern hospital under the globally respected brand of Acibadem. The latest medical and surgical treatments are utilized in our centers with a tailor-made approach to each patient’s needs. Advanced laboratory services contribute to the high success rates we achieve, which are above world averages.
At Acibadem Reproductive Medicine & Infertility Centers, we are continuously investing in the latest technologies and equipment available worldwide to enhance the effectiveness of our fertility treatments even further. There are hardly any novelties in the reproductive medicine field that have not been implemented in our laboratories for embryology and genetics. We have many five-star physicians, each of them with a specific area of expertise, research contributions, and a commitment to excellence. Our fertility patients can choose their trusted specialist according to their specific cases and personal preferences.
Along with effective fertility treatments available worldwide, Acibadem Reproductive Medicine & Infertility Centers apply some pioneering methods with promising results:
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) and IVF are the two major fertility treatments used to achieve pregnancy. IUI is closer to natural conception: sperm from the male partner is processed in our lab and inserted directly into the woman’s uterus during ovulation. This type of assisted reproduction technology ensures high concentrations of good-quality sperm deposited close to the egg. It increases the chance of conception in young couples with mild male-factor infertility or, in some cases, unexplained infertility.
In contrast, in IVF, fertilization occurs outside of the body in an embryology laboratory. Depending on the primary cause of infertility, some additional techniques may be used during the IVF procedure. These may include:
An IVF procedure involves five main stages. First, we boost the patient’s egg supply. Women receive injections that stimulate the ovaries to produce more eggs than their natural cycle. The second stage is to monitor the patient’s progress and mature the oocytes. An ultrasound scan is carried out to check the development of eggs, and medication is used to help them mature. Once the follicles reach a mature size of 17–18 mm, an HCG injection is administered that leads to the final development and maturation of the eggs. The third stage is collecting the eggs from the ovaries. This procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance, and the doctor utilizes a narrow needle to retrieve eggs from the ovary through the vaginal wall. The procedure is painless and performed under mild anesthesia. The fourth stage is fertilizing the eggs in the lab. The sperm can either be mixed with eggs (this is named conventional insemination, which is the standard IVF procedure), or one selected sperm cell can be injected directly into each mature egg (this is called ICSI). The fertilized eggs, now called embryos, are allowed to grow and develop in a culture medium for 3–5 days. After five days, they are called blastocyst stage embryos. Then, generally, one or two of the highest-quality embryos, with the best development are carefully transferred into the uterus. A small, sterile, flexible catheter is used for embryo transfer. This is the most important stage of the IVF procedure. Once the embryos have been transferred into the patient’s womb, they will need to wait two weeks before taking a pregnancy test to see whether the treatment has worked.
The success rate of IVF treatment is influenced by several factors. The leading factors are the age of the female partner and the causes of infertility. After their initial examination, couples will be informed of their chances of conception and their overall suitability for IVF treatment. As age is a significant determinant in the IVF process, at Acibadem, the success rate for couples is highest in the age range 26–30 years and drops with increasing age. At Acibadem, we still have a high success rate for couples older than 40 years.
Although IVF treatment is usually a risk-free, safe process, there are cases where it can yield undesirable outcomes. The most severe of these outcomes is a reaction to fertility medications called ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Other risks include ectopic pregnancy, birth defects (in rare cases), and multiple pregnancies or births (twins, triplets, or more).
The initial cost of a standard IVF treatment can range from $10,000 to $15,000, and additional costs of complementary medications can increase the overall price by as much as $3,000. Following the initial cycle, couples may require further IVF cycles to achieve conception. Each additional IVF cycle could cost about $7,000.
As the costs of IVF treatment rise, more and more couples are gravitating towards out-of-country IVF options. While these treatments can be performed with the utmost safety in numerous countries, it is important to do research and plan before making a decision.
Medical tourism is increasing in Turkey. With its natural beauty, highly competitive prices in all areas, and exceptionally trained medical experts, Turkey is a perfect candidate for couples who are looking to try assisted reproductive technologies, including IVF treatments.
Some factors need to be kept in mind about Turkey’s laws on assisted reproductive technologies. First, the candidate couple for IVF treatment must be married and will not be accepted under any circumstances if they are not. Also, same-sex couples and single women cannot receive IVF treatment due to the laws of the country. Sperm and embryo donation treatments are also prohibited.
The cost of IVF treatment is significantly lower in Turkey when compared with the EU and US. Excluding the costs of visas and travel, which are also typically low compared to other countries, the cost of IVF treatment averages approximately $2,500 in Turkey.
A: Moderate activities are not forbidden after the embryo transfer, but it would be better to rest and take it easy for a couple of days. In the weeks following this initial rest period, it is better to walk than run and to avoid any heavy lifting or jumping. Travel and work are allowed, as long as patients do not climb Mount Everest.
A: Physical and emotional health are crucial during an IVF procedure. A healthy and comfortable lifestyle will certainly contribute to successful outcomes. Smoking is strictly forbidden. In addition, a balanced diet with a reduced intake of carbohydrates is recommended. Eating foods rich in antioxidants is useful. Antioxidants are found in most plant foods, but some of the richest sources are blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, pomegranate, green tea, red cabbage, spinach, legumes (peas, beans, etc.), nuts, seeds, and spices.
A: Generally, anytime that more than one embryo is transferred, the chance of a multiple pregnancy exists. At Acibadem, we prefer single embryo transfers to avoid complications and ensure a healthy pregnancy. Two embryos might be transferred, depending on many prognostic factors, including the patient’s age, quality of the embryos, etc. It is also possible to have twins after IVF even with one embryo, as one egg can split to form two zygotes. The physician will discuss patients’ preferences with them prior to their IVF procedure.
A: Everybody responds differently, and there is no way to predict anyone’s reactions to the treatment. Fatigue, emotional stress, and mood swings are among the most common complaints during an IVF procedure. In a limited number of patients, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome may be observed, and usually, it comes with mild symptoms, such as loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea, and feeling bloated. If patients experience such symptoms, they should notify their doctor immediately. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome needs to be handled correctly, as, in rare cases, it might result in serious complications. However, with modern treatment options.
A: While the entire IVF procedure takes up to four weeks, we will need to see the patient at their first appointment. Afterward, the patient will have to visit their doctor regularly for an average of one week to 16 days prior to the embryo transfer. Our International Patients Team will support patients with all necessary arrangements and logistics to ensure a safe and comfortable stay.
A: We need to see the patient’s male partner during the first consultation when the doctor will schedule tests and a regimen for both partners according to the specific case to ensure a comprehensive fertility evaluation. The male partner’s presence may be needed later depending on planned tests and procedures. Beyond these circumstances, male partners are always welcome, but their presence can be decided based on comfort, preferences, and availability.
A: The IVF success rate depends on various factors, including medical history, test results, the age of the female partner, and the infertility cause. The percentage of IVF treatments that result in live births is around 60% for women under 35 years of age. This drops to 20–25% for women 40–42 years of age. Success rates can be discussed in detail with the doctor.
A: Unfortunately, some IVF efforts do fail. It might be due to the quality of the embryos, implantation problems, immunity problems, etc. Analyzing the core reason for failure will help in drafting the next steps. Patients are welcome to talk to our fertility doctors about previous IVF attempts and what could be improved for successful results.
A: We usually recommend waiting at least two months between IVF treatment cycles. Patients should consult their doctor for specific recommendations.
A: After fertility treatment, patients can perform an HCG level test two weeks after the embryo transfer, with a second test to follow 48 hours later. A heartbeat can usually be detected at six weeks gestation. At that stage, patients can relax and let nature take its course. Patients will have to inform their obstetrician that this is an IVF conception, as patients will be monitored more intensively than those who conceived naturally. We wish our patients a happy and healthy pregnancy!