FAQ

Fakih IVF Centre – Patient FAQs

What is infertility?

Infertility is when a couple cannot conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse. For women over 35, this is reduced to 6 months.

When should we seek medical help?

If you are under 35 and have been trying for more than a year, or over 35 and trying for more than 6 months. Earlier assessment may be needed if you have irregular cycles, endometriosis, or known male factor concerns.

What is IVF? (In Vitro Fertilisation)

IVF involves stimulating the ovaries to produce eggs, fertilising them in the lab, and transferring embryos into the uterus.

What is the difference between IVF and ICSI?

Both IVF and ICSI involve fertilization in the laboratory, but the techniques differ. In standard IVF, thousands of sperm are placed with each egg and fertilisation happens naturally. In ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), a single sperm is carefully injected directly into the egg by an embryologist. ICSI is often recommended when sperm count, motility, or morphology is very low, or when previous IVF cycles showed poor fertilisation.

Is IVF painful?

Egg collection is done under sedation or anaesthesia. Mild cramps or bloating may follow but are short-lived.

How long does a cycle take?

Around 3-4 weeks from stimulation to embryo transfer in fresh cycles.

Are there risks?

Risks include ovarian hyperstimulation (OHSS), multiple pregnancy, or minor complications. These are rare and closely monitored.