How Long Does an IVF Cycle Take? Let’s Walk Through It Together 

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Fertility doctor showing uterus anatomy

How Long Does an IVF Cycle Take? Let’s Walk Through It Together 

When you’re considering in vitro fertilization (IVF), it’s natural to have questions. 

 
How long will it take? 
 
What will it feel like? 
 
Is this the right path? 
 

As much as possible, you will get clear answers, realistic expectations, and a team that’s with you every step of the way—whether you’re starting this journey solo, with a partner, or as part of an LGBTQ+ family. At First Fertility, we combine science you can trust with care that sees you as a whole person, not just a patient. 

Let’s walk through the IVF timeline together so you know what to expect—and so you can feel confident every step of the way. 

IVF Cycle at a Glance 

Every body and every family-building journey is different, but here’s a typical timeline: 

Think of this as your roadmap—you’ll know what’s coming, and we’ll help you navigate every twist and turn. 

Step 1: Consultation & Testing – Your Starting Point 

Your first month is all about understanding you. You’ll meet with your care team to talk about your hopes, goals, and concerns. Lab tests can measure your ovarian reserve, and imaging helps us see the bigger picture of your reproductive health. If sperm is part of your plan, we’ll review that too. 

This step is about clarity and confidence. We want you to leave your appointment feeling informed, supported, and ready to take the next step to grow your family—without feeling overwhelmed. 

Step 2: Ovarian Stimulation & Monitoring – Growing Your Possibilities 

Over the next 10–14 days, you’ll take medications to help your body mature multiple eggs at once. You’ll come in for regular ultrasounds and blood work, and your care team will make adjustments along the way. 

You might notice some bloating or mild cramping. That’s normal, and it’s your body responding. Remember—you’re not alone. We’ll be checking in, answering questions, and helping you manage each sensation with care. 

When your follicles are ready, you’ll take an ovulation injection (typically known as a “trigger shot”) to prepare your eggs for retrieval. It’s a small step that brings you closer to your goal. 

Step 3: Egg Retrieval, Fertilization & Embryo Development – Gathering & Nurturing Your Future 

Egg retrieval is a quick outpatient procedure, usually under light anesthesia. You’ll rest while your team carefully collects your eggs and transfers them to our embryology lab, where they’re nurtured in an environment designed to mimic the human body. 

Then comes fertilization. Your eggs will meet sperm—either through traditional insemination in the lab or with the support of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)—beginning the journey toward embryos. Over five or six days, our embryologists monitor their growth with precision and care. 

Some people choose Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT). During this time, your embryos can be safely cryopreserved while we await results. It can feel like a long wait, but remember—you’re giving your future self more options and more control. 

Step 4: Embryo Transfer – Planting the Seed  

When it’s time, a carefully selected embryo is placed into your uterus using a soft, flexible catheter. The procedure is simple, quick, and usually painless. 

Fresh transfers usually happen five days after retrieval. Frozen embryo transfers are timed to match your natural cycle or a medication-assisted schedule that works best for your body. Take a deep breath—this is the moment when all your preparation, patience, and hope come together. 

Step 5: The Pause Before Possibility 

Now comes the part everyone feels: the two-week wait. It can feel long, emotional, and full of uncertainty. That’s completely normal. 

During this time, we stay in touch with you—answering questions, offering guidance, and checking in so you never feel alone. When the day comes for your blood test, you’ll finally see the result of all the steps you’ve taken. 

Your IVF Journey, Your Way 

IVF isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your timeline, your treatment, and your emotions matter just as much as the science. You might feel excitement, nerves, or even moments of doubt—and that’s okay. Every feeling is valid, and every step is part of your story. 

Whether you’re pursuing IVF as an individual, with a partner, or as part of the LGBTQ+ community, your care team is here to respect your story, celebrate your progress, and help you reach your family-building goals. 

If you’d like to explore each stage in more detail—or just talk through what this process might feel like for you—reach out to schedule a consultation. We’re here to guide you, support you, and walk this journey with you, every step of the way. 

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