In vitro fertilization, or IVF, is the process through which an egg is fertilized by sperm in vitro, i.e. “in a glass,” and then transferred into a woman’s uterus in order to establish a successful pregnancy. Although conventional in vitro fertilization is perhaps the most commonly known treatment, there are actually several different types of IVF procedures available to fertility patients. 

Here’s a quick guide to the different IVF options you have to consider:

Types of IVF Procedures

Conventional IVF

If you’re wondering how IVF works, essentially, the treatment entails the growth of multiple egg follicles that are retrieved surgically and fertilized with the sperm in a controlled laboratory setting. The embryos are then transferred to the patient’s uterus or cryopreserved. Conventional IVF is typically only recommended for those who’ve been unable to get pregnant through less invasive medical procedures like Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and Timed Intercourse.

Conventional IVF treatments are considered the best choice for:

  • Women with badly damaged Fallopian tubes
  • Male factor and unexplained infertility
  • Women suffering from recurrent pregnancy loss
  • LGBTQ couples using donor eggs and/or sperm

Mini IVF

Minimal stimulation IVF, or Mini IVF, offers a gentler, more holistic approach to conventional IVF treatment. Using a minimal amount of oral medication and injections, Mini IVF gently stimulates the ovaries into producing a healthy number of “high-quality” eggs during a single cycle. The aim of the procedure is to provide a less invasive, less stressful, and less painful alternative to conventional treatment. 

Minimal stimulation IVF can be especially helpful for those with a low ovarian reserve and blocked or damaged Fallopian tubes.

Mini IVF Treatment is considered the best choice for:

  • Women with a low ovarian reserve
  • Women who do not respond well to Conventional IVF
  • Women who would prefer a more natural approach 
  • Women over 35 years old 

Natural IVF

Natural cycle IVF is centered around the idea that multiple eggs and embryos do not necessarily equal a higher chance of pregnancy. The natural IVF procedure involves harvesting one good, high-quality, egg the patient produces naturally each month for in vitro fertilization, with the egg then transferred back into the uterus for implantation. The natural cycle of IVF treatments typically consist of the following:  

  • Natural egg production is monitored through regular blood tests and ultrasounds
  • When the egg reaches a mature state, ovulation is induced
  • Egg retrieval is performed via outpatient surgery
  • Egg fertilization and embryo development are done in a controlled laboratory setting like other IVF protocols and then transferred if found to be high quality. 

Different Types of IVF and Fertility Procedures

While those are the three main types of IVF procedures, there are multiple other treatments for infertility that can be considered as well, depending upon a patient’s needs. For instance: 

  • Needle-Free IVF – a more convenient and pain-free alternative to conventional in vitro fertilization.
  • Ovarian Rejuvenation Therapy – a simple procedure that restores a woman’s ovarian function
  • In Vitro Maturation – the process of retrieving immature oocytes and maturing them in a specialized culture
  • Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection – the method of stunning a sperm, removing its tail, and then injecting it into an egg for fertilization
  • Egg Freezing – also known as fertility preservation or cryopreserving, a woman’s eggs are harvested and preserved for fertilization at a later date.

At New Hope Fertility, patient comfort and care come first—all of our patients receive compassionate, individualized treatment. For more info on our services, check out the different types of infertility treatments we offer, and meet the fertility doctors who would be providing your expert care. 

Why New Hope?

New Hope Fertility Center is home to world-renowned fertility specialists. We custom-design fertility treatments for the individual to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy. Our specialists believe in putting the patient first and being with them through every step of the fertility journey. Our team is well-versed in helping women of all ages reach their fertility goals and we are passionate about educating, and supporting our patients throughout their journey. If you want compassionate fertility care, New Hope is the right place for you. Call us at (347) 970-8479 or schedule your initial consultation today!