Intermediate
Technical
IVT
In Vitro Fertilization
Also written as: IVF — In Vitro Fertilization
A fertility treatment where eggs are fertilized by sperm outside the body in a laboratory setting.
Full Definition
In vitro fertilization is an assisted reproductive technology procedure where mature eggs are retrieved from a woman's ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a controlled laboratory environment. The resulting embryos are then cultured for several days before one or more are transferred to the woman's uterus. IVF is commonly used to treat various forms of infertility and requires careful coordination of hormonal stimulation, monitoring, and precise timing of procedures.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize when using the acronym IVF; avoid confusion with artificial insemination procedures.
In Context
- "The patient underwent her third IVF cycle with improved ovarian stimulation protocols." — medical record
- "IVF success rates vary significantly based on maternal age and underlying fertility factors." — clinical guidelines
Also known as
assisted conception
test-tube baby procedure
Contrasted with
natural conception
Don't confuse with
artificial insemination
intrauterine insemination