In Vitro Maturation (IVM)

In IVM (in vitro maturation), a mild hormonal stimulation of the ovaries is carried out (2-3 days). Next, the eggs are retrieved and their final stage of maturation occurs in the laboratory. The mature eggs are fertilised and transferred, as in any IVF procedure.

IVM is indicated in the following cases:

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Risk for ovarian and/or breast cancer
• Liver disease and restrain of hormone administration
• Fertility preservation for women with cancer

Egg retrieval

For egg (ova) retrieval, the dominant ovarian follicle must measure 11-12 mm after the 8^th day of the cycle. Eggs are retrieved from the existing follicles measuring 5-10 mm and they mature in the laboratory.

Criteria for cancelling an IVM cycle (3^rd day of the cycle)

• < 3 ovarian follicles measuring 2-5 mm, on the 2^nd – 3^rd day of the cycle
• Ovarian cyst > 10 mm on the 3^rd day
• Oestradiol levels > 54 pg/ml
• Endometrial thickness > 4 mm

IVM Treatment Protocols 

In natural cycle – no hormonal ovarian stimulation

• 3^rd day of the cycle: ultrasound and hormone test
• 8^th – 9^th day of the cycle: ultrasound and hormone test, administration of Pregnyl when the dominant ovarian follicle is greater than or equal to 12 mm

3-day Hormonal stimulation

• 3^rd day of the cycle: ultrasound and hormone test
• 3^rd – 4^th – 5^th day of the cycle: FSH 150 IU (for 3 days)
• 8^th – 9^th day of the cycle: ultrasound and hormone test, administration of Pregnyl when the dominant ovarian follicle is greater than or equal to 12 mm

Success rates

• Success rates for the IVM method are lower compared to traditional IVF (<20%).

Treatment cost

• The cost of treatment is lower than for traditional IVF.