Essential IVF Safety Guidelines You Need to Know

Essential IVF Safety Guidelines You Need to Know

When seeking the best IVF treatment in Delhi, it is essential to choose a clinic that prioritizes safety, transparency, and advanced medical care. Every reputed fertility center, including Shivam IVF, follows strict medical, laboratory, and ethical standards to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

1. Complete Medical Evaluation Before IVF

A thorough pre-IVF assessment reduces complications.

a) Hormonal Testing

• AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) to assess ovarian reserve.
• Thyroid profile to detect hormonal imbalances.
• Prolactin and other reproductive hormones.

b) Infectious Disease Screening

• HIV
• Hepatitis B & C
• Syphilis - This protects both partners and laboratory samples.

c) Ultrasound Examination

• Checks uterine health.
• Identifies fibroids, cysts, or abnormalities.

d) Semen Analysis

• Evaluates sperm count, motility, and morphology.
• Determines whether IVF or ICSI is required.

2. Safe Ovarian Stimulation Protocols

Controlled ovarian stimulation is essential for egg production.

a) Personalized Dosage

• Medication doses are customized based on age and ovarian reserve.
• Over-stimulation increases the risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS).

b) Regular Monitoring

• Blood hormone tests track estrogen levels.
• Ultrasound scans monitor follicle growth.

c) Prevention of OHSS

• Use of mild stimulation protocols if needed.
• Cycle cancellation if the risk is high.
• Use of trigger injections that reduce complications.

3. Safe Egg Retrieval Procedure

Egg retrieval is a minor surgical procedure.

a) Performed Under Sedation

• Light anesthesia ensures comfort.
• The procedure usually lasts 15–30 minutes.

b) Sterile Environment

• The operating theatre must follow infection control guidelines.
• Disposable needles and sterile instruments are mandatory.

c) Post-Procedure Monitoring

• Observation for bleeding or pain.
• Clear discharge instructions were given to the patient.

4. Laboratory Safety in Embryo Handling

Embryo safety is crucial during IVF.

a) Controlled Environment

• Temperature-controlled incubators.
• Strict air quality control systems.

b) Double Witnessing System

• Verification of patient identity at every step.
• Prevents mix-ups of eggs, sperm, or embryos.

c) Cryopreservation Safety

• Secure labeling of frozen embryos.
• Backup power supply for storage tanks.

Reputed centers such as Shivam IVF implement strict laboratory safety protocols to protect embryos.

5. Safe Embryo Transfer Guidelines

Embryo transfer is a delicate procedure.

a) Minimally Invasive

• Usually painless and does not require anesthesia.
• Performed under ultrasound guidance.

b) Limited Number of Embryos

• Reduces the risk of multiple pregnancies.
• Follows government-recommended embryo transfer limits.

c) Rest and Recovery

• Short rest period after transfer.
• No prolonged bed rest required unless advised.

6. Preventing Multiple Pregnancies

While twins may sound exciting, multiple pregnancies carry risks.

a) Single Embryo Transfer (SET)

• Encouraged, especially in younger women.
• Reduces complications like preterm birth.

b) Careful Embryo Selection

• High-quality embryo transfer improves success with fewer embryos.

7. Managing IVF Medication Safety

Fertility drugs are powerful and must be handled carefully.

a) Proper Storage

• Many injections require refrigeration.
• Expiry dates must be checked.

b) Correct Administration

• Injections should be given as prescribed.
• Avoid self-adjusting dosage.

c) Reporting Side Effects

• Severe abdominal pain
• Sudden weight gain
• Breathlessness - Immediate reporting ensures timely medical care.

8. Pregnancy Monitoring After IVF

Safety continues after conception.

a) Early Pregnancy Scans

• Confirm implantation and heartbeat.

b) Monitoring for Complications

• Ectopic pregnancy detection.
• Early miscarriage prevention.

c) High-Risk Pregnancy Care

• IVF pregnancies may need closer monitoring.

9. Lifestyle Safety Guidelines During IVF

Your daily habits matter.

a) Avoid Smoking & Alcohol

• Both reduce success rates and harm pregnancy.

b) Maintain a Healthy Weight

• Obesity and underweight conditions affect outcomes.

c) Balanced Diet

• Include proteins, folic acid, and antioxidants.

d) Avoid Heavy Exercise

• Light activity is recommended.
• Avoid strenuous workouts.

10. Infection Prevention Measures

a) Hand Hygiene

• Before injections.

b) Avoid Public Infections

• Stay away from people with viral illnesses.

c) Follow Clinic Advice Strictly

• Adhere to the medication schedule.