IVF Procedure in Turkey
The IVF procedure is among the most successful treatments in Turkish hospitals, yielding more positive outcomes than in many other countries. Turkey is currently one of the top medical destinations for foreigners seeking IVF treatment, with approximately 15% of the 700,000 foreign patients visiting Turkey for medical purposes in 2018 opting for fertility treatments.
How IVF is Performed:
The IVF procedure involves five main steps:
- Stimulation: Women typically produce one egg during each menstrual cycle. However, IVF requires multiple eggs to increase the chances of developing a viable embryo. Fertility medications are administered to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. During this phase, regular blood tests and ultrasounds are conducted to monitor egg production and determine the optimal time for egg retrieval.
- Egg Retrieval: Known as follicular aspiration, this surgical procedure is performed under anesthesia. An ultrasound-guided needle is used to retrieve eggs from the ovaries through the vaginal wall. The eggs and fluid are suctioned from each follicle.
- Fertilization: A sperm sample from the male partner is collected and combined with the retrieved eggs in a petri dish to facilitate fertilization and create embryos.
- Embryo Monitoring: Fertilized eggs are monitored to ensure proper division and development. Genetic testing may also be performed during this phase.
- Embryo Transfer: Once the embryos have developed sufficiently (typically 3–5 days post-fertilization), a thin catheter is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. The doctor then releases the embryos into the uterus.
Pregnancy occurs when an embryo successfully implants in the uterine wall, which typically takes 6–10 days. A blood test confirms the pregnancy.
Comparison of IVF Costs in Turkey vs. Other Countries
| Country | Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| USA | 10,000–35,000 |
| Germany | 8,000–25,000 |
| France | 5,000–18,000 |
| Spain | 7,000–20,000 |
| Turkey | 1,900–6,000 |
If you’re interested in traveling to Turkey for IVF treatment, contact us for guidance on selecting the best hospitals specializing in this field, offering high success rates at the most affordable costs.
Get a Medical Consultation
Watch the journey of a Turkish family who successfully underwent IVF treatment in Turkey:
YouTube Video Link
Timeline for IVF in Turkey:
| Procedure | Duration |
|---|---|
| IVF Procedure | 1–2 hours |
| Hospital Stay | Not required |
| Stay in Turkey | 1–3 months |
| Results | During follow-up |
Pre-IVF Preparation:
When researching clinics or hospitals for IVF in Turkey, consider factors like patient age, medical issues, and the clinic’s treatment methods, as these influence success rates.
Tests Before IVF:
- Ovarian Reserve Testing: Blood tests assess follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels, providing insight into egg quality and quantity.
- Ultrasounds: High-frequency sound waves generate images of the uterus to evaluate its condition.
- Semen Analysis: The male partner provides a semen sample, analyzed for sperm count, size, and shape.
Factors to Consider:
- Fate of unused embryos
- Number of embryos to transfer (increased embryos may increase the risk of multiples)
- Financial, physical, and emotional impacts of IVF
Risks Associated with IVF:
- Multiple Pregnancies: Transferring multiple embryos increases the risk of twins, triplets, or more, which may lead to preterm delivery or low birth weight.
- Premature Birth and Low Birth Weight: Slightly higher risk in IVF pregnancies.
- Miscarriage: Rates are similar to natural conception but increase with maternal age.
- Complications from Egg Retrieval: Risks include bleeding, infection, or damage to organs.
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): Fertility drugs can cause swollen, painful ovaries.
- Ectopic Pregnancy: 2–5% of IVF patients experience this condition.
- Birth Defects: Risk increases with maternal age.
For more detailed medical information on IVF, visit Wikipedia.
For English-speaking researchers and specialists, refer to resources like JSTOR, Britannica, and Internet Archive.
