Understanding the IVF Process
Your step-by-step guide to In Vitro Fertilisation at Nagalakshmi Hospital, Proddatur
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is one of the most effective assisted reproductive technologies available today, and at Dr. Nagalakshmi Speciality Hospital, we have helped hundreds of couples in Proddatur and across Andhra Pradesh realise their dream of parenthood. Under the expert care of Dr. Kathya N, every IVF cycle is personalised to give you the best possible chance of success. Here is a clear, step-by-step overview of what to expect during your IVF journey with us.
Step 1: Initial Consultation & Assessment
Your IVF journey begins with a detailed one-on-one consultation with Dr. Kathya N. She will review your complete medical history, previous treatments, and lifestyle factors. Comprehensive blood work, ultrasound scans, and semen analysis are performed to create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your unique situation.
Step 2: Ovarian Stimulation
Hormone medications (gonadotropins) are prescribed for 8–12 days to encourage your ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs instead of the single egg released in a natural cycle. Regular ultrasound monitoring and blood tests track follicle growth so dosages can be adjusted for the best response.
Step 3: Trigger Shot & Egg Retrieval
Once your follicles reach the ideal size, a precisely timed trigger injection is administered to finalise egg maturation. Approximately 34–36 hours later, eggs are collected through a short, ultrasound-guided procedure performed under mild sedation. Most patients rest for a few hours and go home the same day.
Step 4: Sperm Collection & Preparation
A semen sample is collected on the day of egg retrieval and processed in the laboratory using advanced wash-and-swim techniques. This concentrates the healthiest, most motile sperm for fertilisation. In cases of severe male factor infertility, surgical sperm retrieval methods such as TESA may be used.
Step 5: Fertilisation (IVF / ICSI)
In conventional IVF, prepared sperm and eggs are placed together in a culture dish to allow natural fertilisation. When sperm quality or count is a concern, ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is used — a single healthy sperm is injected directly into each mature egg. Fertilisation is confirmed the following morning.
Step 6: Embryo Culture & Selection
Fertilised eggs (embryos) are cultured in a carefully controlled incubator for 3–5 days. Our embryologists monitor cell division and development daily, grading each embryo for quality. The strongest embryos — often at the blastocyst stage on Day 5 — are selected for transfer to maximise your chances of success.
Step 7: Embryo Transfer & Luteal Support
One or two top-quality embryos are gently placed into your uterus using a thin, soft catheter — a painless procedure that takes only a few minutes and requires no anaesthesia. Progesterone supplements (oral, vaginal, or injectable) are started to support the uterine lining and help the embryo implant successfully.
Step 8: Pregnancy Test & Follow-up
About 12–14 days after embryo transfer, a blood test (beta-hCG) confirms whether pregnancy has been achieved. If the result is positive, follow-up ultrasound scans are scheduled to monitor early foetal development. Dr. Kathya N and the team remain with you every step of the way through the first trimester and beyond.
What to Expect During Your IVF Journey
Practical tips from Dr. Kathya N to help you prepare
Follow your medication schedule strictly — set reminders if needed.
Stay hydrated and eat a balanced, protein-rich diet throughout the cycle.
Avoid strenuous exercise during stimulation; light walking is encouraged.
Take time off work around egg retrieval and embryo transfer days if possible.
Limit caffeine and avoid alcohol and smoking completely.
Ask questions — our team is always available to address your concerns.
Lean on your partner, family, or support group for emotional strength.
You Are Not Alone
We understand that the IVF process can feel overwhelming. At Nagalakshmi Hospital, our compassionate team walks beside you through every appointment, every injection, and every milestone. If you have questions at any stage, call us at 088860 11100 — we are here for you.
Ready to Begin Your IVF Journey?
Book a consultation with Dr. Kathya N today and take the first step toward parenthood.