San Diego In Vitro Fertilization
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is the gold standard in advanced fertility care, offering hope to individuals and couples facing a variety of reproductive challenges.
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What Is IVF?
IVF is an assisted reproductive technology that involves retrieving eggs from the ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm in a controlled laboratory setting, and transferring resulting embryos to the uterus. This process can help overcome a range of fertility barriers, IVF is an assisted reproductive technology that involves retrieving eggs from the ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm in a controlled laboratory setting, and transferring resulting embryos to the uterus. This process can help overcome a range of fertility barriers, including blocked fallopian tubes, irregular ovulation, diminished ovarian reserve, severe male factor infertility, unexplained infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss and genetic concern including blocked fallopian tubes, irregular ovulation, diminished ovarian reserve, severe male factor infertility, unexplained infertility, and genetic concerns.
Who Can Benefit from IVF?
IVF is an excellent option for:
- Women struggling with ovulatory disorders, tubal factor infertility, or diminished ovarian reserve
- Individuals with a history of unsuccessful fertility treatments or recurrent miscarriage
- Individuals with extensive endometriosis
- Couples experiencing male infertility, including reduced sperm count or motility
- Families needing preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to prevent transmission of heritable disorders or families with recurrent pregnancy loss
LGBTQ+ individuals and couples seeking to build a family using donor eggs, donor sperm, or gestational carriers
The IVF Process: Step by Step
- Personalized Consultation and Ovarian Stimulation
Every IVF journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation, including hormone testing, ultrasound, and a detailed review of personal and family history. Dr. Foyouzi develops a tailored ovarian stimulation plan, using carefully managed medications to support the development of multiple eggs. Frequent monitoring ensures safety and optimal response throughout this phase. - Egg Retrieval
Once eggs are mature, they are collected in a brief, minimally invasive outpatient procedure under light anesthesia. Leading-edge techniques and comfortable care help ensure safety and maximize egg yield. - Laboratory Fertilization
In our advanced embryology lab, eggs are fertilized with sperm—either by traditional insemination or via intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), where a single sperm is injected into each egg. Fertilized eggs are then cultured under strict conditions, allowing top-quality embryo selection. - Embryo Culture and Testing
Embryos are monitored for development over 3–7 days. For those wishing to screen for genetic or chromosomal health, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is used, allowing the transfer of only chromosomally normal embryos and further reducing the risk of inherited disorders. - Embryo Transfer
The highest-quality embryo(s) are gently transferred into the uterus in an office-based procedure. The transfer is pain-free for most patients and guided by ultrasound for accuracy. Remaining viable embryos can be cryopreserved (frozen) for future use.
Pregnancy Support and Follow-Up
After embryo transfer, supportive care continues with hormonal monitoring and an early pregnancy test about 9–11 days later. If pregnancy is achieved, ongoing monitoring and guidance are provided through the crucial early weeks.
Advanced Options and Personalized Care
At Southern California Fertility Center, patients benefit from:
- State-of-the-art embryology laboratory for optimal embryo care and security
- Options for elective single embryo transfer to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy
- Comprehensive genetic screening and counseling services
- Tailored protocols for unique medical, genetic, or personal circumstances, including donor egg IVF, gestational surrogacy, and LGBTQ+ family-building support.
Why Choose Southern California Fertility Center?
Dr. Foyouzi’s rare combination of genetics, endocrinology, and hands-on reproductive medicine provides patients with solutions for even the most complex fertility challenges—without outside referrals. Her proven record of clinical excellence, ongoing commitment to patient education, and personalized attention throughout every step establishes this center as a leader in IVF and reproductive care.
Ready to Begin Your IVF Journey?
If you’re considering IVF or exploring your fertility options, Southern California Fertility Center is dedicated to providing you with expert guidance and compassionate care every step of the way. Schedule a private consultation with Dr. Nastaran Foyouzi and discover how personalized IVF planning, advanced technology, and decades of experience can help you achieve your dream of building a family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work during IVF?
Yes, most patients are able to maintain their work schedules during the IVF cycle, though flexibility is helpful. SCFC recommends discussing with your employer as you may need time off for appointments or recovery after egg retrieval.
Is the process painful?
Most parts of IVF are minimally uncomfortable. Hormonal injections may cause mild irritation or bloating. Egg retrieval is done under sedation and embryo transfer is generally painless.
What happens if the cycle fails?
If a cycle is unsuccessful, SCFC will conduct a follow-up consultation to assess the reasons and recommend adjustments. Options may include a second cycle, additional testing, or a different stimulation protocol. Emotional support is also available to help patients process disappointment.
Can I choose how many embryos to transfer?
Yes, SCFC follows ASRM guidelines but gives patients the autonomy to decide within medically safe limits. Your physician will help you understand the risks and benefits of single vs. multiple embryo transfers.
Is IVF safe long term?
Current evidence supports the long-term safety of IVF for both patients and babies. SCFC adheres to the latest clinical protocols and ethical guidelines for reproductive health.