Infertility to Parenthood: Understanding the ABCs of IVF Treatment

Dr. Kelly Caperton • August 26, 2024

IVF, PGT, IUI—what do they mean? Find out how these terms could change your life.

For anyone navigating infertility, terms like IVF, PGT, IUI, and ER can seem overwhelming. But understanding these concepts is crucial as you embark on your fertility journey. At Caperton Fertility Institute, we believe that clarity is power. This blog will break down the IVF process into digestible steps, arming you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions and increase your chances of success.

For anyone navigating infertility, terms like IVF, PGT, IUI, and ER can seem overwhelming. But understanding these concepts is crucial as you embark on your fertility journey. At Caperton Fertility Institute, we believe that clarity is power. This blog will break down the IVF process into digestible steps, arming you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions and increase your chances of success.

What is IVF? The Basics You Need to Know

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a highly effective fertility treatment that has helped countless individuals and couples achieve their dream of parenthood. In simple terms, IVF involves fertilizing an egg with sperm in a laboratory and then transferring the resulting embryo(s) into the uterus. The process can seem complicated, but when broken down step-by-step, it becomes much easier to understand.

Step 1: Planning Your IVF Cycle

The first step is selecting the right time to begin your IVF cycle. Timing is crucial—choose a month when you can fully commit to the process without work or travel distractions. You’ll need to visit the fertility clinic multiple times during this period for monitoring and tests.

Learn more about the importance of timing and preparation for IVF from Mayo Clinic.

Step 2: Ovulation Suppression

Contrary to what you might expect, your IVF journey often begins with birth control pills. Why? To control your natural cycle and prevent ovulation. This is critical because spontaneous ovulation could disrupt the entire IVF process. Some patients also receive a daily injection to further prevent ovulation, setting the stage for controlled ovarian stimulation.

Step 3: Stimulating the Ovaries

Once your cycle is under control, it’s time to stimulate your ovaries. You’ll start taking injectable fertility medications that encourage the growth of multiple follicles. Each follicle holds a potential egg, and the more eggs retrieved, the better your chances of a successful outcome. Typically, you’ll be on these medications for 8-10 days, during which you’ll have several ultrasounds to monitor your progress.

Step 4: Trigger Shot and Egg Retrieval

When your follicles reach the optimal size, you’ll take a “trigger shot” of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin). This shot mimics your body’s natural LH surge, telling your eggs to mature. Timing here is everything—your egg retrieval will be scheduled exactly 36 hours after the shot.

The egg retrieval is a quick, minimally invasive procedure performed under sedation at our clinic. You’ll be able to go home the same day. The eggs are then handed over to our embryologists, who will fertilize them with sperm and monitor the developing embryos.

Step 5: Fertilization and Embryo Development

Once fertilization occurs, your embryos are carefully monitored over the next five to six days. At this stage, they’re growing into blastocysts, which have the potential to become healthy babies. Some patients opt for Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), where a few cells are biopsied from the embryo to check for genetic abnormalities. This step can significantly increase your chances of a successful pregnancy.

Step 6: Embryo Transfer

Once your embryos reach the blastocyst stage, they’re ready for transfer. The embryologist selects the best-quality embryo(s) for transfer based on your specific circumstances. This delicate procedure involves placing the embryo(s) into your uterus, with the hope they will implant and result in a healthy pregnancy.

Step 7: The Two-Week Wait

After the embryo transfer, you’ll enter the infamous “two-week wait” (2WW). During this time, you’ll wait to take a pregnancy test to determine if the transfer was successful. It’s a period filled with anticipation and anxiety, but remember—you’re not alone. The team at Caperton Fertility Institute is here to support you every step of the way.

Understanding IVF Success Rates

IVF success rates vary based on several factors, including age and ovarian reserve. Generally, women under 35 have a 60% success rate with one IVF cycle. For women in their early 40s, the rate decreases to around 20%. However, multiple cycles may be necessary to achieve a genetically normal embryo, especially as age increases.

For more detailed statistics on IVF success rates, visit the CDC's Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Data page.

Final Thoughts

The IVF process is intricate, but understanding each step can make the journey less daunting. At Caperton Fertility Institute, we’re committed to providing you with the highest level of care and support, tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re just beginning your fertility journey or exploring your options, our team is here to help you every step of the way.

If you have more questions or are ready to take the next step, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to guide you toward your dream of parenthood with compassion and expertise.

Additional Resources

Understanding Fibroids and Fertility

By Dr. Lee Caperton • October 7, 2025
Uterine fibroids are a common diagnosis among women of reproductive age. While many fibroids are harmless and cause no symptoms, others can interfere with fertility and pregnancy. At Caperton Fertility Institute , we help patients understand how fibroids may affect reproductive health and provide personalized treatment options to optimize fertility outcomes. What Are Uterine Fibroids? Fibroids, also known as leiomyomas , are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop in or on the uterus. They can vary greatly in size, number, and location. Depending on where they form, fibroids are classified into several types: Submucosal Fibroids: Grow into the uterine cavity Intramural Fibroids: Develop within the uterine wall Subserosal Fibroids: Form on the outer surface of the uterus Pedunculated Fibroids: Attached by a stalk extending from the uterus How Fibroids Can Affect Fertility Not all fibroids impact fertility. However, certain types and locations are more likely to interfere with conception, implantation, or pregnancy progression. Submucosal Fibroids: These are most likely to affect fertility because they distort the uterine cavity, which can prevent implantation or increase the risk of miscarriage. Intramural Fibroids: When large, these fibroids can change the shape of the uterus and affect blood flow, potentially reducing the chances of successful embryo implantation. Tubal Blockage: Fibroids located near the fallopian tubes can obstruct sperm or egg movement, preventing fertilization. Cervical Fibroids: Although rare, fibroids near the cervix can hinder sperm entry into the uterus. Common Symptoms of Fibroids Fibroid symptoms vary widely — some people experience significant discomfort, while others have no symptoms at all. Common signs include: Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding Pelvic pain or pressure Pain during intercourse Frequent urination or constipation Recurrent pregnancy loss or difficulty conceiving For many patients, fibroids are first discovered during a fertility evaluation or routine pelvic exam . Diagnosis and Treatment Options At Caperton Fertility Institute , we use advanced diagnostic imaging such as ultrasound and MRI to assess fibroid size, number, and location. Once diagnosed, treatment is tailored to your fertility goals and overall health. Treatment options include: Medical Management: Hormonal therapies to reduce symptoms and fibroid growth. Surgical Options: Myomectomy to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus. Minimally Invasive Procedures: Hysteroscopic or laparoscopic surgery for faster recovery and minimal scarring. Our approach is designed to preserve fertility whenever possible while alleviating symptoms and improving uterine health. Hope After a Fibroid Diagnosis A fibroid diagnosis doesn’t mean you can’t conceive. Many patients with fibroids go on to achieve healthy pregnancies — especially with proper evaluation and treatment. At Caperton Fertility Institute , our experienced fertility specialists in Albuquerque, NM , and El Paso, TX , provide compassionate, individualized care for every patient. We’ll guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and the next steps toward achieving your dream of parenthood. ✨ If you suspect fibroids may be affecting your fertility, schedule a consultation today. Let’s take the next step together toward your fertility goals.

Honoring Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month 🤍

By Dr. Marika Raff • October 7, 2025
Every loss is unique. Every story matters. Every life is remembered.
Blonde woman in red sweater smiles while using a laptop and tablet at a cafe table.

Egg Donor FAQ

By Dr. Kelly Caperton • September 19, 2025
1. What is egg donation? Egg donation is the process by which a healthy woman donates her eggs to help another individual or couple conceive a child. These eggs may be fertilized through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and implanted into a recipient’s uterus or frozen for future use. 2. Who can become an egg donor? At Caperton Fertility Institute, we welcome egg donors who meet the following criteria: Ages 19–30 Physically and emotionally healthy Non-smoker, non-drug user Regular menstrual cycles No history of genetic or reproductive disorders Willing to undergo medical and psychological screening Able to commit to the time and responsibilities of the donation process 3. Why do people need egg donors? Egg donors help individuals and couples who are unable to conceive using their own eggs due to: Advanced maternal age Genetic conditions Medical treatments like chemotherapy LGBTQ+ family-building Unexplained infertility 4. Is egg donation safe? Yes. Egg donation is a common and generally safe medical process. It involves hormone injections to stimulate the ovaries and a minor outpatient procedure to retrieve the eggs. Risks are low but can include mild discomfort, bloating, or temporary side effects from medication. Serious complications are rare. 5. Will donating affect my fertility? No, egg donation does not impact your long-term fertility. Women are born with thousands of eggs, and donation uses only a small number that would naturally be lost in a normal cycle. 6. Is egg donation painful? Most donors report mild discomfort similar to menstrual cramps. The egg retrieval procedure is done under light sedation, so you won’t feel pain during the process. Recovery typically takes 1–2 days. 7. Will I be compensated? Yes. Caperton Fertility Institute offers generous, ethically guided compensation for your time, effort, and commitment. The amount is discussed during your initial consultation and complies with all legal and medical guidelines. 8. How long is the egg donation process? The process generally takes 6–10 weeks from initial screening to egg retrieval. It includes: Application and screening Medical and psychological evaluations Legal review Hormonal stimulation (approx. 10–14 days) Egg retrieval procedure 9. Can I still work or go to school during the donation process? Yes. Most of the process can be scheduled around your routine. However, you'll need to attend several clinic appointments and take medications on a strict schedule. During the last week, you'll need to reduce physical activity. 10. Will my identity be kept confidential? Absolutely. Donor confidentiality is strictly maintained. You can choose to remain anonymous, open, or semi-open, depending on your preferences and the recipient’s needs. 11. How do I get started? To begin the egg donor application process: Visit our Portal Fill out a questionnaire Our donor coordinator will contact you for next steps 12. Can I donate more than once? Yes, eligible donors can donate up to six times, as recommended by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). Each cycle is spaced out for your health and safety.
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