Test Tube Baby Treatment
Test tube baby is considered as a miracle that comes into existence through medical intervention. The term “test tube baby” is a layman term and more known among people but the right term for this procedure is In vitro fertilization (IVF). People often think of these as two separate treatments but they are two names for one procedure.
A test tube baby is an outcome of successful fertilisation which takes place in laboratory under optimum conditions. Through medical intervention the sperm fertilizes the eggs and resulting embryos are implanted to the uterus in the hope of achieving pregnancy.
When the first test tube baby in Pakistan was born?
A baby conceived through test tube treatment is referred as test tube baby. The first test tube baby in Pakistan came into this world in 1988. This baby was delivered exactly 11 years after the birth of first test tube baby of the world, Louise Brown. Since then, test tube baby treatment has become a huge success in the country with thousands of people seeking this treatment.
What is the procedure of test tube baby in Pakistan?
The main procedure of test tube baby treatment is the same everywhere. However, there might be some difference in the methods used and pre/post IVF work. This procedure involves numerous stages which compile into one seamless procedure. The main stages include:
- Ovarian Stimulation: This is an essential stage to maximise the chances of successful pregnancy. At this stage, ovaries are stimulated in order to produce more than one egg in a month. For this purpose hormone medicines are given to increase the number of eggs. Follicles that generate egg are monitored through blood tests and ultrasounds.
- Egg & Sperm Retrieval: This step is scheduled by the specialist according to the growth of eggs. At a certain day, the eggs are retrieved from the ovaries. Meanwhile, sperm is also retrieved from the male partner.
- Fertilisation: The sperm and eggs are put together in a culture medium for fertilisation. The sperm fertilizes the eggs on its own. Once the eggs are fertilised, they are monitored for three to five days under controlled environment.
- Uterine Lining: Before the embryo can be transferred to the uterus, it is prepared to carry the egg for which the lining of uterus is prepared.
- Embryo Transfer: The embryologist selects the most healthiest embryos out of them all and it is implanted back to the uterus to achieve pregnancy. Sometimes, more than one egg is transferred to minimise the chances of failure.
- Pregnancy Test: After two weeks of embryo implantation, blood test is taken to determine whether or not the attempt was successful.
What is the cost of test tube baby in Pakistan?
The cost of test tube baby treatment in Pakistan may range from Rs.300,000 to Rs.550,000 as of July 2022. This is an estimated cost. The cost of this treatment is influenced by numerous factors which include the age, medical history, etc. Besides, it is a highly advanced procedure which requires series of testing, medication and advanced equipment which increase its chances of success. Therefore, the cost may vary from patient to patient.
