Is In Vitro Fertilization Painful?

In-vitro fertilization (IVF) is considered the most effective type of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). If you are considering IVF, you may have questions regarding the procedure and whether it is uncomfortable. These are typical inquiries, and we are here to help provide answers to alleviate any concern or uncertainty.

Is IVF painful?

Each patient reacts differently to the IVF process, and what is difficult for one person may not be painful for another. Some aspects of the procedure, like as injections or egg retrieval, may cause some discomfort, but you should never be in excruciating pain. Severe pain may indicate a complication, and it is crucial to remember that complications related with in vitro fertilization (IVF) are uncommon and can typically be managed well.

Although self-injection of reproductive medicines has the potential to induce discomfort, most patients report that it is uncomfortable rather than severe. Needles used for self-injection are thin, but if you are afraid of needles, having a spouse or friend help with the injections can be beneficial and reassuring.

Ovarian Stimulation Injections

Ovarian stimulation is the first step in the IVF process. Patients are given self-injectable drugs that stimulate their ovaries to produce mature eggs during a cycle.

Bloating and other unpleasant side effects of hormonal fluctuations caused by injections are common in women, but they are rarely severe or painful. Side effects may include breast soreness, fluid retention and bloating, mood fluctuations, headaches, and sleeplessness.

The Shradha IVF team is there at each office visit to prepare you for any discomfort you may experience and to explain what to expect and why. While taking the medicine, your doctor will perform blood tests and ultrasounds to decide when ovulation should be triggered.

Ovulation Induction: The Trigger Shot.

Once your doctor has determined that your ovaries have sufficiently matured the eggs, they will provide another medicine to trigger ovulation and release the eggs. This trigger shot commonly comprises Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HGC), a hormone that aids in the maturation of eggs before to ovulation. The shot is normally administered 36 hours before egg retrieval.

The trigger shot can cause side effects, however most patients suffer just transient irritation at the injection site. 

What to Expect During Egg Retrieval?

During egg retrieval, patients are given pain medication and sedatives to make the operation as comfortable as possible. Following that, it is typical to have mild side effects such as cramping, bloating, or feelings of pressure. Any discomfort can typically be relieved with an over-the-counter medicine such as ibuprofen, but your doctor may prescribe a stronger medication if necessary.

Following the retrieval, recovery is usually quick, and you should be able to resume your normal activities after a day or two of rest. 

Embryo Transfer

After the eggs have been collected and fertilized in the lab, embryos will be chosen to be transported to the uterus. The embryo is injected directly into the uterus using a syringe and a vaginal catheter. You won't feel anything from the syringe, but the catheter will apply pressure. Many women compare this to how the speculum feels during a Pap test. Some women find the transfer painful, but many don't. Recovery from the transfer should be rather quick.