IVF treatment in Kolkata: What to expect?
If you are considering an IVF treatment and considering Kolkata as your destination, understanding what to expect can be beneficial in the long run. Here is an overview of IVF treatment in Kolkata. Learn about each step, from choosing the right clinic to calculating costs, procedures, and emotional readiness:
Choosing the right IVF clinic
The most crucial step in your IVF treatment is selecting a clinic that offers the right technology and compassionate care. Kolkata is home to several renowned fertility centres, each offering a range of assisted reproductive technologies. Look for clinics that transparently report IVF outcomes. Experienced and qualified doctors can significantly influence the success of your treatment.
Additionally, verify that the lab has modern incubators, blastocyst culture facilities, and embryo-freezing technologies. Consulting at least two clinics before making a final decision is often helpful.
Cost of IVF treatment in Kolkata
On average, a single cycle of IVF costs in Kolkata ranges between Rs. 1.2 lakh and Rs. 2.5 lakh. However, the actual price differs depending on the clinic, the technology used, and whether additional treatments are required. It is advisable to request a detailed estimate before starting treatment to avoid any unexpected costs later.
Initial consultation
Once you select the IVF centre in Kolkata, the treatment begins with a comprehensive medical evaluation. Both partners undergo a series of diagnostic tests to assess fertility health. Women must take blood tests to evaluate hormone levels such as AMH, FSH, and LH. Pelvic ultrasounds are also requested to check ovarian reserves, and sometimes, a hysteroscopy is needed to evaluate the uterus. For men, a semen analysis helps assess sperm count, motility, and morphology.
Ovarian stimulation
The active phase of IVF begins with ovarian stimulation. During this stage, the woman is prescribed daily hormonal injections to encourage the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. This stage lasts 10 to 12 days and involves regular monitoring through blood tests and transvaginal ultrasounds to track follicular development.
Doctors closely adjust the medication dosage based on the body's response to ensure the maximum number of mature eggs are retrieved. Patients are advised to take it easy during this time.
Egg retrieval and fertilisation
Once the follicles have reached the appropriate size, you are injected to induce final egg maturation. Egg retrieval is scheduled approximately 34 to 36 hours after the trigger. This procedure is performed under mild anaesthesia and is not very invasive. Simultaneously, the male partner submits his semen sample. The retrieved eggs and sperm are then preserved and saved in a laboratory.
The embryos are first cultured for three to five days, and the best are selected for transfer. If multiple healthy embryos are present, they can be frozen for future use.
Embryo transfer
Embryo transfer is a painless procedure that usually does not require anaesthesia. Depending on your specific case, the fertility specialist in Kolkata may recommend either a fresh embryo transfer in the same cycle as retrieval or a frozen embryo transfer in a subsequent cycle, allowing your body to return to a more natural hormonal balance.
Two weeks wait
After the transfer, the most challenging part of the IVF process begins, marked by a two-week wait time. During this period, you are asked to take hormonal support, rest moderately, eat well, and avoid stress as much as possible. After about 12 to 14 days, a blood test known as Beta-HCG will be conducted to confirm pregnancy. This test measures hormone levels with far greater accuracy than home pregnancy tests.
Emotional support
While IVF is a medical procedure, it is also an emotional journey filled with hope, anxiety, and, at times, disappointment. Fortunately, many fertility clinics in Kolkata are now including mental health support as part of their fertility programs. IVF can be emotionally challenging, so emotional support from a partner, counsellor, or support group is beneficial. They offer counselling sessions, support groups, and even couples therapy to provide more support.
Conclusion
IVF treatment is a deeply personal journey filled with hope, resilience, and careful planning. Kolkata offers a comprehensive and supportive environment for individuals seeking assistance with fertility. You can confidently approach IVF clinics in Kolkata with clarity and take one step closer to building the family you have always dreamed of.
If you plan IVF in Kolkata and need help selecting the right clinic or preparing emotionally and physically, reach out to a trusted fertility consultant without hesitation. Your path to parenthood might begin here.
