Many couples try many things to get pregnant in the journey of parenthood. One such option that has received attention of late is in vitro fertilization (IVF) with sex selection. It provides the opportunity to select the sex of a possible offspring as per preference or medical need. This process is being done in many countries worldwide, including Mexico, which has seen many couples opting for the procedure. The timeline and expenses could help prospective parents decide whether this is a good option.
What Is IVF With Sex Selection?
In IVF with sex selection, eggs are fertilized outside of the body, and the embryos of the preferred sex are then chosen for implantation. The main principle of this technique is to determine the gender of embryos using Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT). Not only does PGT identify gender, but it also tests for genetic abnormalities, increasing the chances for healthier pregnancies. Thus, in vitro fertilization in Mexico is becoming a choice for many couples as a medical tourism option.
Consultation and Evaluation
It starts with the couple receiving an initial consultation and examination to ascertain their fertility health. These include thorough assessments like medical history reviews and physical examinations. This step helps to guarantee that both partners are good candidates for IVF and that there are no unidentified health problems.
Ovarian Stimulation and Egg Retrieval
After evaluations, ovarian stimulation starts. This is the stage where you take hormone injections to try to get your ovaries to produce several eggs instead of just one. Stimulation usually continues for 10–14 days. Next comes egg retrieval, performed under light sedation, which collects mature eggs from the ovaries.
IVF Fertilisation and Culture of the Embryo
After retrieving the eggs, they are fertilized in a laboratory. Sperm is then introduced to the eggs, forming embryos. The embryos are then cultured for several days until they reach a stage that can be tested. The embryo culture stage usually lasts around 5 to 6 days.
Testing and Choosing Embryos
PGT is done when the embryos are being cultured, including embryo sexing and chromosomal testing. Only the embryos of the desired gender are selected, and even then, only the healthy ones are transferred. This is a key step in ensuring the pregnancy is successful and safe.
Embryo Transfer and Follow-Up
The selected embryo is then implanted in the uterus. This process typically happens several days after the embryos are tested. Post-transfer, there is a waiting phase where pregnancy needs to be confirmed through blood tests. The pregnancy remains healthy and will continue to be monitored closely.
The Journey Involved in IVF
The complete process of IVF takes two to three months, including the initial consultation and a positive pregnancy test. There is a specific time frame for each of these stages, ranging from hormonal stimulation up to embryo transfer. How soon couples can commit to this varies depending on individual responses to treatment, so they must prepare for this.
Cost of IVF With Sex Selection
Several different expenses are associated with IVF with sex selection. These include the initial consultations, ovarian stimulation medications, egg retrieval, laboratory costs for egg fertilization and embryo culture, PGT costs, and embryo transfer. Additional costs may arise due to consultations, follow-up visits, and monitoring.
This might be something that your partner, other family members, or chosen family can assist you with for a fee. Still, we recognize everyone has a different financial situation they are working with.
The financial costs of IVF with sex selection can be difficult for many couples. And several options are available to alleviate financial burdens, from insurance coverage to payment plans to fertility grants, so do your research! Learning about what resources are out there can help smooth out your path by taking some financial weight off your shoulders.
Emotional and Mental Support
Going through IVF is an extensive journey and emotionally challenging. Couples can get psychological treatment through counseling or support groups. Hearing from others who have been through similar experiences or are further along can be reassuring and empowering for those going through challenging times.
Final Thoughts
Sex selection through IVF provides a valuable choice for couples looking to have a specific sex as part of their growing family. This process is rather complicated, and preparing for the timeline and costs will help. With the proper support and knowledge, soon-to-be parents can find the road towards creating the fulfilling family they want.
