"In vitro" means "in glass" — fertilization happens in the laboratory rather than inside the body. In an IVF cycle, hormone injections make the ovaries grow several follicles (sacs that hold eggs). The eggs are collected and fertilized with sperm in the lab. The embryos grow for a few days, and then an embryo is transferred into the uterus.
Who it's for
IVF is commonly recommended for blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, significant male-factor infertility, endometriosis, unexplained infertility that hasn't responded to simpler treatment, and situations where time matters, such as the woman's age or low ovarian reserve (fewer eggs left). It is not only a "last resort"; starting IVF earlier can save valuable time in the right cases.
What to expect
IVF babies grow and develop just like naturally conceived babies. Success is never certain in a single attempt. Results depend on age, egg and sperm quality, and other individual factors. Read the full walkthrough in the IVF Journey series on the guides page.