Before you decide which clinic you’d like to undergo your IVF procedure at, be sure to do your research. I recommend that couples contact at least three different clinics or hospitals, and learn about what their IVF treatments entail. 

Choosing the right clinic for IVF treatment is a crucial step in your fertility journey. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to make a decision. However, by considering a few key factors, you can ensure that you find a clinic that meets your specific needs and gives you the best chance of success.

First and foremost, it is important to research the clinic's success rates. This information can give you a good idea of how well the clinic performs and whether their patients have had successful outcomes. Look for clinics that have high success rates, as this indicates that they have a proven track record of helping couples conceive. However, it is also important to keep in mind that success rates can vary depending on factors such as the patient's age and medical history.

Among other things, you should ask each clinic about their IVF success rates, specifically for patients of your age. If appropriate, do also ask if there any specialists who are particularly experienced in treating women who are older, who have higher FSH levels, or who have had multiple IVF failures or recurrent pregnancy loss. Last but not least, ask how often complications arise, and ask about the clinic’s multiple birth rates. 

In addition to success rates, consider the services and amenities offered by the clinic. IVF treatment can be a time-consuming and emotionally challenging process, so it is important to choose a clinic that provides a supportive and comfortable environment. Some clinics offer additional services such as counseling, support groups, or complementary therapies like acupuncture. These services can greatly enhance your overall experience and well-being during the treatment process.

One of the first steps in the IVF treatment process is the initial blood test. This blood test is an important part of the diagnostic phase and helps the fertility specialist gather crucial information about the patient's reproductive health. The blood test is typically done on the third day of the menstrual cycle and involves checking hormone levels and other markers that can provide insight into a patient's fertility. It is a simple and relatively painless procedure, but its results can be instrumental in determining the appropriate course of action for the patient.

During the initial blood test, the fertility specialist will check various hormone levels in the patient's blood. These hormones include follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, and progesterone. FSH and LH play a critical role in follicular development and ovulation, while estrogen and progesterone prepare the uterus for pregnancy. By measuring these hormone levels, the specialist can assess the patient's ovarian reserve, determine the quality of the eggs, and identify any potential hormonal imbalances or abnormalities that may affect fertility.

Additionally, the initial blood test may also include other important tests such as complete blood count (CBC), blood type and Rh factor, and screening for infectious diseases. The CBC measures different components of blood, including red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets. It provides valuable information about the patient's overall health and helps identify any underlying conditions that may impact fertility or the success of the IVF procedure. Blood type and Rh factor testing are crucial in determining compatibility between the patient and their partner, as well as potential risks during pregnancy. Screening for infectious diseases such as HIV, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis is necessary to ensure the safety of the patient, their partner, and any potential offspring.

During an IVF cycle, multiple follicles are stimulated to grow in the ovaries. Each follicle contains an egg, and it is these eggs that will eventually be retrieved and used in the IVF process. AMH levels can give an indication of the response of the ovaries to the stimulation medications. If a woman has a low AMH level, it may suggest a lower number of eggs available for retrieval, which can impact the success rates of IVF. On the other hand, a high AMH level indicates a higher ovarian reserve and potentially a better outcome for IVF.

Anti Mullerian hormone (AMH) is a hormone that plays a crucial role in IVF treatment. It is produced by the small follicles in a woman's ovaries and helps determine the ovarian reserve, which refers to the number and quality of eggs available for fertilization. The level of AMH in a woman's body can provide valuable information about her chances of success with IVF.

It is important to note that while AMH levels can provide valuable information, they are not the only factor to consider in IVF treatment. Other factors such as age, previous fertility history, and certain medical conditions can also affect the success rates. It is always best to consult with a fertility specialist who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation. AMH levels are just one piece of the puzzle in the journey of IVF, and understanding their significance can help in making informed decisions throughout the treatment process.