THE IVF PROCESS AT AFCT
A Step-by-Step Guide to
Personalized Fertility Care
At Advanced Fertility Center of Texas (AFCT), the IVF process is more than a medical protocol. It is a carefully designed strategy built around your biology, fertility history, and personal goals.
Whether you are starting your first IVF cycle or facing challenges like low ovarian reserve or failed implantation, our team combines advanced fertility science with compassionate, whole-person care to support your path to parenthood.
Every IVF journey at AFCT begins with understanding you—because personalized care leads to better outcomes and a more positive experience.
YOUR IVF JOURNEY
8 Steps to Building Your Family
From your initial consultation to early pregnancy care, we're with you every step of the way
IVF Consultation and Fertility Testing
Your journey begins with a one-on-one consultation with a board-certified fertility specialist. We offer in-person and telemedicine options.
What We Assess:
- Hormone levels (AMH, FSH, estradiol)
- Antral follicle count (via ultrasound)
- Semen analysis (including morphology and motility)
- Uterine imaging (HSG or saline ultrasound)
- Genetic screening and microbiome testing
- Advanced inflammation and hormone panels
Personalized IVF Protocol and Wellness Support
Every IVF protocol is tailored to your age, ovarian reserve, cycle history, and fertility goals. We focus on egg quality, hormone balance, and whole-body health.
Your Plan May Include:
- Custom IVF stimulation protocol with real-time dose adjustments
- Intralipids, ovarian rejuvenation, or immunology testing if appropriate
- Targeted support: Lowsitol™, Biomegil™, nutrition, supplements, and acupuncture
Ovarian Stimulation and Monitoring
You'll take daily injectable medications to stimulate follicle growth. We monitor closely to ensure safe and effective response.
What to Expect:
- Frequent labs and ultrasound appointments
- Adjustments based on hormone levels and follicle growth
- AI-enhanced FOLLISCAN tracking for improved precision
- Convenient monitoring at Houston, The Woodlands, or Bryan–College Station
Egg Retrieval Procedure
Performed at our Houston surgical suite, this outpatient procedure is done under light sedation. Our embryologists process your eggs on-site at Omni Med Lab.
On Retrieval Day:
- Sedation and ultrasound-guided egg aspiration
- Sperm collection or thawing of frozen donor sample
- Seamless handoff to our IVF lab for immediate processing
Fertilization and Embryo Development
Our embryology team uses IVF or ICSI to fertilize your eggs. Embryos are cultured to blastocyst stage (Day 5–7) under optimal lab conditions.
Key Steps:
- Daily monitoring and grading
- Assisted hatching or extended culture if indicated
- Only high-quality embryos move forward for testing or transfer
Genetic Testing (PGT)
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) may be recommended based on age, history, or known conditions.
Options Include:
- PGT-A for chromosomal screening
- PGT-M for specific genetic diseases
- Embryos are biopsied, frozen, and tested to ensure only healthy embryos are selected
Embryo Transfer
Most patients undergo Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) for optimal results. We prepare your uterine lining and carefully time your transfer.
On Transfer Day:
- Simple, in-office procedure (no sedation)
- Ultrasound-guided embryo placement
- Single Embryo Transfer (SET) standard unless advised otherwise
- Partner may attend
- Same-day acupuncture available upon request
Post-Transfer and Early Pregnancy Care
We continue to support you through early pregnancy, up to 12 weeks.
What to Expect:
- Progesterone and hormone support
- Beta-hCG testing 10–12 days after transfer
- Early pregnancy ultrasounds at 6–7 weeks
- Ongoing coordination with your OB or specialist
