Understanding Different Protocols of In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
In-Vitro Fertilization, popularly known as IVF, has turned the dreams of many couples wishing to experience parenthood into reality. This ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) refers to the medical procedure of fertilizing a female’s egg and a male’s sperm in the laboratory.
The IVF procedure, from prescribing medicines to retrieving eggs and placing the fertilized eggs in the uterus, is cautiously done by our experts. However, several factors influence the success rate of IVF, and one among them is the procedure’s protocols. There are multiple IVF protocols with varying procedures and suitability, and as the best IVF hospital in Ahmedabad, it is our responsibility to shed light on some of the protocols. So, let’s begin.
Lupron Down Regulation Protocol
Long or Lupron down-regulation protocol refers to repressing the natural cycle of periods through the influence of Lupron, a fertility medication belonging to the GnRH agonists category.
This protocol basically prevents ovaries from releasing the eggs prematurely, enabling external and better control over the ovulation cycle, which ultimately increases the probability of retrieving several eggs. It is all done using recombinant gonadotropin injections once the cycle suppression is successful.
The long protocol is most commonly used in young patients or those who suffer from poor embryo quality.
Antagonist Protocol
In the antagonist or short protocol, ovarian stimulation is done using the GnRH antagonist injections without influencing the menstruation cycle. It is a relatively time-efficient protocol wherein medications like Ganirelix and Cetrorelix, belonging to the antagonist categories, are recommended to influence the ovulation cycle.
Antagonist protocol works best for PCOS patients and helps prevent OHSS (Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome). The short protocol works well for most patients and includes the least number of injections.
Mild Stimulation IVF
Gentle, mini, micro, or mild stimulation IVF refers to stimulating the ovaries with the help of fewer fertility medications as compared to most protocols. The focus here is to collect better-quality eggs in good quantity while minimizing the ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome chances to decrease its impact on the life quality of females.
Apart from being safe, this protocol allows for better implantation and a successful cycle without suppressing the hormones. It is most commonly suggested to women with abnormal ovum reserve, PCOS, or those willing to take limited medications.
Wrapping Up
Based on the results of initial diagnostic examinations, doctors will recommend the appropriate IVF protocol. In any case, the aim is to retrieve enough eggs to obtain healthy or fit embryos that ensure at least one conception.
Overall, IVF, as an ART technology, offers different types of stimulation protocols based on every patient’s requirement, medical history, and endocrine profile. We continuously monitor every patient’s condition during the stimulation phase and revise doses accordingly to get the best quality embryos in good numbers.
If you or someone in your contact is looking forward to the procedure, visit our hospital to meet the best gynaecologist in Ahmedabad and clarify all the concerns regarding it.
