In the context of the gradual relaxation of policies allowing families to have a second or third child, some families are eager to create a joyful atmosphere at home and hope to continue expanding their family by having a third child. For couples with such aspirations, IVF technology has become a crucial pathway to realizing their dreams. This article will provide a detailed overview of the entire process of having a third child through IVF in the United States, helping everyone better understand and plan for this hopeful journey.

The entire process and time required for having a third child through IVF in the United States:

1. Egg Retrieval and Sperm Collection (10-12 days)

Experts at American fertility centers customize individual plans based on factors such as age, hormonal levels, and ovarian function. Medications used in the process are rigorously tested by the FDA, ensuring safety without additional burdens on the body. Throughout the process, experts monitor the development of ovarian follicles in real-time through ultrasound. When the follicles are mature, a brief procedure involving anesthesia is performed to retrieve eggs, taking only 10-15 minutes. Sperm collection can be done simultaneously or retrieved and stored before egg retrieval for later use during fertilization.

2. In Vitro Fertilization (Half a day)

In the second generation of IVF, Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is used to inject a selected healthy and viable sperm into the egg using a high-powered microscope, completing the fertilization process outside the body.

3. Embryo Cultivation (5-7 days)

Embryo cultivation to the blastocyst stage is a crucial step in the IVF process. It takes about 5 days for fertilized eggs to divide into over 100 cells, and in some cases, it may take up to the 6th or 7th day to develop into blastocysts. Blastocysts have stronger vitality and energy, facilitating successful implantation into the uterine lining. Therefore, it is essential to choose a hospital with the capability to cultivate blastocysts, impacting the success rate and the health of embryos.

4. Third-Generation IVF Comprehensive Genetic Testing (Approximately 14 days)

Preimplantation Genetic Screening/Diagnosis (PGS/PGD) is performed after embryos reach the blastocyst stage. This technique involves testing all chromosomes for abnormalities, allowing the detection and prevention of genetic disorders. PGS can identify issues like Down syndrome, while PGD targets specific chromosomal segments, testing for nearly 300 genetic diseases. This helps avoid genetic disorders and miscarriages.

5. Embryo Transfer (Half a day)

Once the uterus is in an ideal condition, including appropriate thickness of the uterine lining, abundant blood flow, good cell division, and balanced hormone levels, experts will transfer the genetically tested blastocyst into the uterus at a specific location, taking only half a day.

6. Pregnancy Testing (12 days)

On the 12th day after embryo transfer, prospective mothers undergo a blood test. A positive result indicates pregnancy, and the couple can return to their home country for further prenatal care. The domestic medical team will continue monitoring the pregnancy until the safe delivery of the baby. Therefore, completing the entire IVF cycle in the United States typically takes about 30 to 45 days. If time is a constraint, it is possible to split the process into two trips, with the first involving egg retrieval/sperm collection for about 15 days and the second for embryo transfer lasting approximately 15-20 days in the United States.