INVOcell vs. IVF
In vitro fertilization (IVF) remains the most popular fertility treatment available today, but refinement in existing techniques and advances in technology have made other procedures more viable. INVOcell™ is one such state-of-the-art treatment, which is more affordable than IVF and could be just as effective for many patients.
Dr. Sonja Kristiansen and the team at her Houston, TX fertility clinic would like to compare IVF and INVOcell so you understand how each works and why one may be better for you.
How In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Works
During in vitro fertilization (IVF), viable eggs are retrieved from a woman’s ovaries. These eggs are fertilized in an incubator and lab setting in order to ensure pregnancy. Once the fertilized eggs develop into embryos, they are then transferred to the uterus in order to implant and be carried to term.
Ideal Candidates for IVF
Good candidates for IVF are individuals or couples facing issues with infertility. Since IVF is a controlled lab-based fertility procedure, it can effectively increase the chances of successful pregnancy by eliminating factors that prevent fertilization and implantation during natural conception.
During your visit to Houston Fertility Center, we will be sure to assess your health and wellness to determine if IVF is a good option for your needs and goals.
How INVOcell Works
INVOcell has a similar overall principle as IVF, though it involves less work in a lab setting. This FDA-approved intravaginal culture (IVC) system relies a small device that fits inside a woman’s vagina rather than an external incubator. Eggs are retrieved and combined with a sperm specimen in the INVOcell device. The device is then placed inside the vaginal canal, allowing fertilization to occur.
After a few days, fertility specialists check the INVOcell device for embryo development. One or two viable embryos can be transferred to the uterus, and any remaining embryos can be frozen for use at a later time.
Ideal Candidates for INVOcell
Good candidates for INVOcell are similar to good candidates for IVF. They should be couples or individuals who are facing issues with fertility. They should be in good health overall and not suffer from conditions that would affect the placement of the INVOcell device.
Our fertility specialists can determine if INVOcell is ideal for you and your needs.
IVF or INVOcell: Which Is the Better Option?
Both IVF and INVOcell have comparable rates of success, meaning that both options are excellent means of starting a family. Many patients are interested in INVOcell since the treatment cycle costs about $5,000 less than an IVF cycle. That said, IVF may be more ideal for certain patients simply given the nature of their infertility.
In short, neither treatment is better per se, but circumstances could make one option better for you and your particular needs.
Helping You Make the Right Choice
Picking a fertility procedure can be challenging, which is why we want to take time to help you select the ideal treatment. During your visit to the practice, we will go over all of the pros and cons so you can make the best possible decision based on your needs and fertility treatment goals.
Learn More About Fertility Treatments
For more information about INVOcell, IVF, and your many other options for starting a family, be sure to contact a skilled fertility specialist. You can reach Houston Fertility Center by phone at (713) 862-6181.
