IVF FAQs

• How long does the IVF process take?

  One IVF cycle typically takes four to six weeks, but may take longer depending on individual circumstances. There are six steps involved in IVF: fertility testing and diagnostics; ovarian stimulation and monitoring; sperm collection if there is a male partner; egg (ovum) retrieval; fertilization and embryo testing if doing PGT (preimplantation genetic testing); and fresh or frozen embryo transfer.

• What are the success rates of IVF?

  RMA of New York is globally recognized as one of the world’s leading fertility clinics and IVF centers, with success rates well above the national average. We are proud to share our IVF success rates as reported by the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART). See our success rate data and reports and read our blog on understanding IVF success rates. We utilize the most advanced technologies and evidence-based, data-driven precision medicine at our state-of-the-art facilities to help patients achieve high IVF success rates and healthy pregnancy outcomes. Our expert team of physicians and embryologists has successfully facilitated the births of tens of thousands of healthy babies throughout the New York Metro Area.

• What are the potential risks and side effects of IVF?

  As with every medical procedure, there are inherent risks and side effects involved in undergoing IVF treatment. RMA of New York, as a medical practice, upholds strict safety standards. Our fertility physicians typically perform single embryo transfer, in order to reduce the chance of multiple pregnancy and the inherent increased risk of complications for both the mother and babies that comes with twin and higher order multiples. There is a slightly higher risk of having an ectopic pregnancy with IVF, and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is a rare complication of IVF. The medication used during an IVF cycle may cause mood swings, hot flashes, nausea, and headaches.

• How many embryos are typically transferred during IVF?

  After healthy, mature embryos have been created, the healthiest embryo is selected to be placed into the uterus. Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is often used after fertilization to test the embryos for specific genetic abnormalities. This testing helps identify the healthiest embryo for transfer. If there are additional viable embryos that are not used during transfer, they can remain frozen for later use.

• What is the difference between fresh and frozen embryo transfers?

  Fresh embryos are transferred to the uterus within three to seven days of egg retrieval and fertilization. Frozen embryos are those preserved from a previous IVF cycle, often after being biopsied for Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), or after a previous fertility preservation process. The embryo is thawed and transferred to the uterus in an embryo transfer (ET) cycle. During a frozen embryo transfer, the patient may take fertility medications to prepare the uterus for optimal implantation or track ovulation in order to time the transfer.

• How many IVF cycles might I need?

  The number of IVF cycles an individual or couple may need to achieve pregnancy varies based on a number of factors including age, infertility diagnosis, history of miscarriage and pregnancies, and egg quality and quantity. A review of RMA of New York’s IVF Success Rates page and a conversation with your fertility doctor can help inform your plan.

• How soon after IVF can I take a pregnancy test?

  You can take a pregnancy test 10-14 days after the embryo transfer.

• How much does an IVF cycle cost?

  Cost per IVF cycle depends on several variables unique to each patient’s journey. Our dedicated finance team will provide transparent information about all of the various expenses and fees that will impact the total price of your fertility treatment. We offer fertility financing plans and partner with popular insurance companies like Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield and more to help alleviate some of the stress associated with paying for fertility treatment. At RMA of New York, we believe that finances should not be a barrier to achieving your dream of parenthood, so reach out to a member of our team today.

• Can I choose the gender of my embryo?

  When embryos are genetically screened using PGT (preimplantation genetic testing), the patient or couple will receive a report with genetic information, including chromosomal information, such as euploidy (the expected 46 pairs of chromosomes) or aneuploidy (extra or missing chromosomes), as well as the sex of each embryo (male or female).

• What is the difference between IUI and IVF?

  Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is often the first step for those in need of reproductive assistance, and may be an option if you’re diagnosed with unexplained infertility, in a same-sex partnership using donor sperm, experiencing male infertility, or intend to be a single parent. Sperm undergoes a process called sperm washing to ensure only the highest quality sperm are used during the procedure. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) involves retrieving both eggs and sperm, fertilizing them in the laboratory to create embryos, then placing a healthy embryo into the uterus to achieve pregnancy.