All about in vitro fertilization in Bogotá

It is important to schedule an initial evaluation to determine whether, based on the patient’s age, the assessment of the fallopian tubes, ovulation, and a sperm analysis, IVF is the best option to efficiently address a couple’s infertility. In this process, eggs and sperm are combined in a specialized laboratory environment, which increases the chances of success when infertility is present and is often the most effective and complete option for achieving the best results.

You should maintain a healthy weight, follow a regular exercise routine, and adopt dietary habits that include fish and vegetables while avoiding fats and refined carbohydrates. It is important to avoid smoking, caffeine, and medications not prescribed by your doctor. Reducing work-related stress and maintaining a positive mindset toward the treatment are also recommended.

The treatment begins a few days after menstruation, and a pregnancy test can usually be performed about one month later. In some cases, it may take up to two months to know the final result. It is a relatively short wait for such an important goal.

It is important to understand that fertility treatments never have a 100% success rate. Success depends on factors such as the patient’s age, the quality of eggs and sperm, the laboratory’s standards, and the expertise of the medical team. If a treatment fails, we usually have backup plans such as performing another cycle, transferring frozen embryos, or considering treatments like egg donation, among many other alternatives.

These treatments should be performed exclusively by gynecologists with at least 2 years of specialized training in Human Reproduction, preferably in European or U.S. centers where the volume of these procedures is very high.

Costs vary depending on the patient’s age and ovarian reserve, as well as the clinic where the process is performed. Treatments may range from 13 to 20 million Colombian pesos, plus the required medication for each cycle.

No major prior treatment is required to begin IVF.

You should consider the cost of the technology used—which in Colombia meets the same standards as in Europe or the United States—and the medication, which generally consists of high-quality hormones. Also keep in mind the time availability required for the treatment, which usually adapts well to each patient’s lifestyle.

Success rates vary depending on age and ovarian reserve. For women under 35, the success rate is close to 60% in a single cycle. After age 40, this probability drops to less than 20%. That’s why it is so important to seek consultation early.

There are two main methods: conventional IVF, where eggs and sperm are combined in the laboratory and fertilization occurs naturally, and ICSI, where a selected sperm cell is directly injected into the egg. Egg donation is also an option, used in cases of low ovarian reserve, previous treatment failures, or genetic conditions.

No, it is not painful. During the most uncomfortable part—the egg retrieval procedure—sedation is used to ensure the patient feels no pain at all.

No. The treatment is generally performed using the partner’s sperm. Donor sperm is only required in special cases.