Types of Assisted Reproductive Technologies: Methods and Applications

Introduction

Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) encompass various medical procedures used to address infertility. These technologies assist in the conception process, offering hope to couples struggling with infertility. This article explores the different types of ART, their methods, applications, and success rates.

To understand more about ART and what is involved, the The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is the national public health agency of the United States, has written on the topic on its website.

Types of Assisted Reproductive Technologies

1. In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

• Method: IVF involves retrieving eggs from a woman’s ovaries and fertilising them with sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryos are then transferred to the woman’s uterus.
• Applications: IVF is used for a variety of infertility issues, including blocked fallopian tubes, male factor infertility, ovulation disorders, and unexplained infertility.
• Success Rates: Success rates vary depending on factors like age, cause of infertility, and clinic expertise, typically ranging from 20-40% per cycle.

2. Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

• Method: ICSI is a specialised form of IVF where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg. This method is particularly useful when sperm quality or quantity is a concern.
• Applications: ICSI is often used in cases of severe male infertility, previous IVF failures, or when sperm has been retrieved surgically.
• Success Rates: Similar to IVF, with success rates also influenced by the quality of eggs and sperm, generally around 25-40% per cycle.

3. Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

• Method: IUI involves placing sperm directly into a woman’s uterus around the time of ovulation to facilitate fertilisation.
• Applications: IUI is used for mild male infertility, cervical mucus problems, or unexplained infertility. It is less invasive and less expensive than IVF.
• Success Rates: Typically lower than IVF, with success rates ranging from 10-20% per cycle.

4. Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT)

• Method: In GIFT, eggs and sperm are placed directly into the fallopian tubes for fertilisation to occur naturally within the body.
• Applications: GIFT is less commonly used today but can be an option for couples with certain religious or ethical concerns about IVF.
• Success Rates: Comparable to IVF, but its use has declined in favour of IVF and ICSI.

5. Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT)

• Method: ZIFT involves fertilising eggs in the lab (like IVF) but transferring the resulting zygote to the fallopian tubes rather than the uterus.
• Applications: ZIFT is used less frequently due to its invasive nature and the preference for IVF.
• Success Rates: Similar to IVF, but with additional surgical risks.

6. Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)

• Method: FET involves thawing and transferring previously frozen embryos into the uterus.
• Applications: FET allows couples to use embryos from previous IVF cycles, increasing overall chances of pregnancy.
• Success Rates: Often comparable to fresh embryo transfers, with success rates of 30-40% per cycle.

7. Egg and Sperm Donation

• Method: Donor eggs or sperm are used in IVF or IUI when individuals or couples face significant infertility issues.
• Applications: Useful for women with poor egg quality, premature ovarian failure, or men with no viable sperm.
• Success Rates: Generally high, especially with donor eggs, often around 50% per cycle.

8. Surrogacy

• Method: In surrogacy, another woman (the surrogate) carries and delivers a baby for the intended parents. This can involve the surrogate’s egg (traditional surrogacy) or an embryo from the intended parents or donors (gestational surrogacy).
• Applications: Used when a woman cannot carry a pregnancy due to medical reasons, or for same-sex male couples.
• Success Rates: Depends on the surrogate's health and the quality of the embryo, typically ranging from 40-70%.

To understand more about the different type of procedures and what might be most applicable to you, first, you can read a published paper on the matter at Science Direct, here, and secondly, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, has a booklet called, Guide for Patients, here.

Conclusion

Assisted reproductive technologies offer a range of options for individuals and couples facing infertility. Each method has its own applications, advantages, and success rates, allowing for personalised treatment plans based on specific fertility issues. Advances in ART continue to improve outcomes, providing new hope and possibilities for those seeking to build their families. Regular consultation with a fertility specialist is crucial to determine the most suitable approach and to maximise the chances of a successful pregnancy.