Gynem Clinic
FAQ
IVF, DONOR EGGS TREATMENT
What is the meaning of the abbreviation IVF?
IVF is an abbreviation for IN VITRO FERTILIZATION. It is a method of assisted reproduction that includes a series of medical procedures that allow a woman's germ cells to be fertilized with a man's sperm using state-of-the-art equipment in a laboratory. Therefore, fertilization takes place outside the woman's body, hence in vitro fertilization.
When should I start thinking about IVF? Who is IVF treatment for?
IVF treatment is suitable for couples who have been unable to conceive naturally for a long time (minimum 1 year). Alternatively, where pregnancy is otherwise very difficult. In vitro fertilization is a medical process that enables women with a wide range of fertility disorders of varying nature and severity to achieve pregnancy. More detailed information about other methods that may be suitable specifically for you can be obtained during a personal or online consultation. Both options are free of charge.
Is there an age limit for IVF treatment in Czechia or other restrictions?
Yes, according to Czech law, assisted reproduction methods, including IVF, can only be performed on women up to their 49th Birthday. IVF is allowed only for couples consisting of a man and a woman, but the partners do not have to be married. IVF is not allowed for women without a partner.
What are the treatment options using donated cells?
It is possible to use treatment with donated eggs, sperm or embryos. If it is not possible to use one's own eggs for IVF, it is possible to use donated eggs. The same applies to unsatisfactory sperm quality. Another option is to accept a donated embryo. In the case of IVF using donated cells, we always pay attention to the careful selection of donors.
Who is infertility treatment with donated eggs (oocytes) intended for?
Infertility treatment with donated eggs is intended for women who, for some reason, cannot use their own oocytes. On the one hand, it can be women with premature ovarian failure, i.e. a situation where their egg supply is exhausted before it should have been, on the other hand, it can be, for example, oncology patients whose eggs were damaged as part of the treatment.
What does the term ovarian reserve mean?
The amount of eggs in the ovary, the so-called ovarian reserve, can be determined on the basis of, among other things, the concentration of AMH in the blood. Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is a hormone produced by the follicles in the ovaries. Therefore, the level of this hormone is directly related to the number of follicles. A low level of AMH can indicate a lack of follicles and therefore possible problems with pregnancy.
Can I undergo artificial insemination even if I do not have a partner?
According to current Czech law, assisted reproduction centers may offer artificial insemination methods to couples consisting of a man and a woman. However, the partners do not have to be married. The only treatment possible for single women is egg freezing.
Can I choose the gender of the baby?
In the Czech Republic, gender selection without an obvious medical reason is prohibited.
What is the success rate of IVF?
Success rate is very individual, at our clinic we are able to help more than 90% of our patients
What affects the success of in vitro fertilization?
The success of IVF is influenced by a number of factors. Among the most important are the woman's age, state of health, lifestyle, but also hormonal preparation, sperm quality and, last but not least, the quality and transfer technique.
How long does the entire IVF treatment process take?
Every woman's body is different and therefore the reaction to the treatment is very individual, so it is not possible to say in advance the specific length of the treatment. Very briefly, IVF includes the following steps: hormonal stimulation, collection and preparation of eggs for fertilization, fertilization of eggs, embryo culture, embryo transfer, or embryo freezing. Hormonal stimulation starts on the 2nd day of the menstrual cycle, egg retrieval is usually done between the 12th and 15th day of the cycle. The embryos are then cultivated for five days and the embryo transfer follows.
How long does it take to start with an IVF?
Usually, the start of a stimulation is 1-3 months after contacting our IVF clinic. Everything depends on your options, preferences and possible additional examination before the very beginning of the treatment.
How long does the whole process take for treatment with donated eggs?
Again, this is a very individual process. First, a suitable egg donor needs to be found , this usually takes about 3 weeks. Subsequently, it is necessary to synchronize the menstrual cycles of the recipient and the donor, this process takes 1-2 months. In total, the whole process takes approximately 2-3 months.
How long do I need to stay in Prague for an IVF treatment?
Patients are required to undergo the first ultrasound checkup at Gynem, which is usually scheduled for the 7th day of the cycle. The treatment ends with an embryo transfer, which happens around the 19th day of the cycle - therefore, it is necessary to expect at least a 14-day stay in Prague. Since the response to stimulation is individual, it is impossible to say exactly how long the stimulation itself will actually last. Prior to the treatment itself, it is necessary to undergo pre-treatment tests and go through all the necessary documentation. If you prefer to travel to Prague only once, we also offer an online consultation with our IVF specialist. Your coordinator and doctor will specify the time schedule for your treatment after this initial consultation.
How long do I need to stay in Prague for a treatment with donated eggs?
In the case of IVF with donated eggs, you need to stay in Prague for about one week - from the day the eggs are collected from the donor and the fertilization needs to be done, to the transfer of the embryo.
Can you help me find accommodation?
Yes, your coordinator will be happy to help you find accommodation according to your wishes. She is also ready to arrange transportation from the airport to the hotel and from the hotel to the clinic and back.
Is egg or sperm donation anonymous in the Czech Republic?
Yes, egg and sperm donation is anonymous in the Czech Republic. According to the current Czech law, the health care facility must ensure the preservation of mutual anonymity between the donor and the recipient of the eggs or sperm.
Is an IVF treatment painful?
It is important to note that each person is unique and sensitive in a different way. The stimulation of the ovaries itself is in the form of an injection application. Very thin needles or injection pens are used for the application and the process is painless. Medicines are applied subcutaneously in the area of the lower abdomen, which can be slightly uncomfortable. The application of injections is simple and patients manage it themselves at home. Egg retrieval is performed under short-term general anesthesia, so women do not feel any pain. After the procedure, it is possible that you will feel pain in the lower abdomen, which is similar to a heavy period. The majority of our patients go through the IVF process without any problems. If you have any pain during IVF, don't be afraid to tell us, we will be happy to help.
Is a treatment with donated eggs painful?
No, the treatment is completely painless. The embryo transfer might be uncomfortable, but it should not be painful.
STIMULATION, DRUGS AND THEIR STORAGE
Why is hormonal stimulation necessary during an IVF cycle?
Hormonal stimulation ensures the maturation of more eggs in one cycle. These eggs are then retrieved with a thin needle under general anesthesia. The number of eggs retrieved depends on the patient's ovarian reserve and her response to stimulation.
How long does an ovarian stimulation last?
In the case of IVF with your own eggs, ovarian stimulation takes approx. 12 days until egg collection, and approx. 17 days until embryo transfer is performed.
How are hormones administered?
Hormones are applied subcutaneously, with a very thin needle or application pen, in the lower abdomen according to the doctor's recommendation. The application itself is easy, assistance from a nurse is not necessary. When handing over the stimulant medication, the nurse will give you all the necessary information.
How to store the stimulation medication?
Medication must be stored according to the instructions of the nurse, or as indicated in the package leaflet. In case of improper storage (e.g. exposure to direct sunlight or frost), the effect of stimulant medication may be reduced. If the medication needs to be kept cold, store it in the refrigerator door to avoid freezing.
What to do with used injections?
After administration, put the used injections in the plastic container that you receive together with the medicine. You can also use a jar with a lid. Please hand this over to the clinic for disposal. Please keep in mind that used needles are hazardous infectious waste.
How many clinic visits are required during stimulation?
Ultrasound check-ups during stimulation usually require 2 - 4 visits.
At the end of the stimulation, egg collection follows - the procedure itself is performed in the morning on an empty stomach from 7:30AM, leaving the clinic is possible approx. 2-3 hours after the procedure and you are required to have somebody to accompany you to your hotel. If you plan to proceed with an embryo transfer, it is carried out 3 - 5 days after the egg collection.
What complications can occur with ovarian stimulation?
The risk associated with stimulation is minimal these days. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) occurs very rarely. It is a disproportionate response of the ovaries to stimulation, during which a large number of eggs are produced. You may experience period-like nausea, headache or lower abdominal pain. Every woman is different, and therefore reactions to medication are also different. It is determined by the sensitivity of your ovaries and the whole body.
What is Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OOHS)?
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) can occur as an adverse reaction of the ovaries to hormonal stimulation. OHSS can have a variety of symptoms, such as an enlarged abdomen, lower abdominal pain, nausea, and sometimes bowel problems. The progress of the stimulation is monitored by a doctor so that preventive measures can be taken in time against onset of more serious complications. At our clinic, we try to prevent such conditions as much as possible.
Is it possible to have intercourse during stimulation?
Yes, you can continue with your sex life, just as you are used to. In case of pain, a consultation with a doctor is recommended.
