What are the IVF stages and how long does it take?

IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is a multi-step fertility treatment that usually takes about 4–6 weeks. 1- Ovarian stimulation – 8–12 days Hormonal medications stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Ultrasounds and blood tests are done during this phase. 2- Egg retrieval – 1 day A short outpatient procedure (15–20 minutes) is performed to collect the eggs under light anesthesia. 3-Sperm collection and preparation – same day A sperm sample is collected and prepared in the laboratory. 4- Fertilization – 1 day Eggs and sperm are combined in the lab to create embryos (IVF/ICSI). 5- Embryo development – 3–5 days Embryos grow in a controlled lab environment and the best embryo is selected. 6- Embryo transfer – 1 day The selected embryo is gently transferred into the uterus. 7- Waiting for pregnancy test – 10–14 days About two weeks later, a blood pregnancy test is performed. Total duration: Approximately 1 to 1.5 months from start to pregnancy test.