IVF Treatment Turkey

What Is IVF Treatment?

IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) represents the most advanced stage of assisted reproductive technologies and includes both in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). For some couples, IVF may be the first and only option for achieving pregnancy; for others who cannot conceive through ovulation-inducing medications or intrauterine insemination (IUI),it serves as the most effective final step.

In the classical IVF method, sperm cells are placed around the egg in specially prepared culture dishes, allowing fertilization to occur naturally.

However, in most cases today, the ICSI (microinjection) technique is preferred, where a single sperm cell is injected directly into the egg using a fine needle under microscopic guidance.

In both methods, fertilization takes place in a laboratory setting. Embryos are monitored throughout their development, and the highest-quality embryos are transferred into the uterus. Remaining embryos may be frozen for future use if pregnancy is not achieved or if additional children are desired later on.

Achieving pregnancy requires a healthy egg, sperm, and embryo, as well as a receptive uterus for implantation. IVF can be offered to any woman who has not yet reached menopause and continues to have menstrual cycles. However, even with IVF, the chance of pregnancy decreases significantly after the age of 45.

In cases of azoospermia, pregnancy is still possible through IVF as long as sperm can be retrieved from the testicles via TESE or TESA.

IVF is recommended when imaging tests such as hysterosalpingography or laparoscopy show that the fallopian tubes are blocked, removed, or tied; when severe sperm abnormalities are present; or when pregnancy is not achieved after ovulation induction and IUI. For couples over 35 with unexplained infertility lasting more than two years, IVF may be chosen as the first-line treatment.

Another important indication for IVF is the need for genetic diagnosis of embryos. This includes cases where either partner carries a genetic disease or chromosomal abnormality, or when there is a history of chromosomal or genetic disorders in previous pregnancies or births. IVF with preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) may also be used to conceive an HLA-compatible sibling for bone marrow transplantation. Additionally, PGT is recommended for couples with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss or repeated IVF failures.

When Is IVF Treatment Recommended?

• For couples who are unable to achieve pregnancy through intrauterine insemination (IUI)
• For patients over the age of 35 who have diminished ovarian reserve or an infertility duration of 2 years or more
• For patients with blocked fallopian tubes
• For men with severely low sperm count and motility (oligospermia) or for azoospermic patients with no sperm in the ejaculate
• In cases where genetic testing of embryos is required
• For patients with sexual dysfunction such as vaginismus or erectile dysfunction.

What Is the First Step in IVF Treatment?

Before starting IVF treatment, the couple is thoroughly evaluated. A detailed infertility history is taken, previous test results are reviewed, and any missing investigations are completed. A gynecological examination is performed to assess the uterus, ovaries, and ovarian reserve.

If there is a male-related issue, a urological evaluation is requested. Based on all these assessments, a personalized treatment plan is created for the couple. The first stage of treatment is ovarian stimulation. Medication doses are selected according to the patient’s age, weight, and ovarian reserve, aiming to stimulate follicles safely without causing overstimulation.

How Is IVF Treatment Performed?

IVF treatment begins with the controlled stimulation of the ovaries using medications to mature multiple eggs. Once the follicles reach adequate size, the eggs are retrieved under ultrasound guidance. These eggs are then fertilized with sperm in the laboratory. Fertilization can occur through conventional insemination or, if needed, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

The resulting embryos are monitored in specialized culture environments throughout their development, and the best-quality embryo is selected for transfer. The selected embryo is placed into the uterus, where the implantation process begins. A pregnancy test performed afterward determines whether the embryo has successfully implanted. Any surplus embryos are frozen for future use.

IVF success depends on factors such as egg and sperm quality, embryo development, transfer technique, and the woman’s age. Modern laboratory technologies, including time-lapse imaging systems, help optimize embryo selection and improve pregnancy rates.

When at least three follicles measure 17 mm or more, a trigger injection is administered. Egg retrieval is performed 36–40 hours later under anesthesia using a needle guided by transvaginal ultrasound. On the same day, the collected eggs are fertilized, and embryos are evaluated the next day. Depending on their development, embryos are transferred into the uterus on day 3 or day 5. A pregnancy test is performed approximately 10–12 days after the transfer.

What Are the Stages of IVF Treatment?

• Initial IVF Consultation
• Ovarian Stimulation
• Egg Retrieval (OPU)
• Sperm Collection
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
• Embryo Transfer
• Pregnancy Test

Initial IVF Consultation

Creating an individualized treatment plan is essential in IVF. Hippocrates’ saying, “There are no diseases, only patients,” carries even greater meaning for couples undergoing IVF. Although the main issue is difficulty conceiving, the underlying causes and necessary steps vary for each couple. During the first consultation, a detailed medical history is taken, including age, duration of infertility, frequency of unprotected intercourse, menstrual regularity, and lifestyle habits. A gynecological examination is performed to evaluate ovarian reserve and the uterus. Required tests are planned, and based on their results, if IVF is recommended, the start day of treatment is scheduled according to the selected protocol.

Ovarian Stimulation

The primary goal in IVF is to stimulate the ovaries using a medication protocol tailored to the patient’s age, ovarian reserve, and body mass index, allowing the growth and maturation of the maximum number of eggs. Based on information gathered during the initial consultation, the treatment protocol and medication dose are determined.

Although the start time varies depending on the chosen protocol, the short protocol is most commonly used, and treatment typically begins with subcutaneous injections on day 2 or 3 of the menstrual cycle. After starting treatment, estradiol, progesterone, and LH hormone levels are checked at intervals, and ultrasound is used to measure follicle sizes and endometrial thickness. At the end of this 10–12-day period, the timing of the trigger injection (to induce final egg maturation) is planned.

Trigger injection is usually administered when at least three follicles measure 17 mm or more. However, the timing can be individualized depending on age, ovarian reserve, ovarian response, and—if applicable—the number of mature eggs retrieved in previous IVF cycles. The goal is to maximize the number of mature eggs and therefore the number of high-quality embryos.

Ovarian stimulation is typically carried out using subcutaneous injectable medications. Sometimes oral medications may be combined with injections. The dosage is personalized, ensuring adequate stimulation while avoiding ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Age, ovarian reserve, height, weight, and prior treatment responses help guide dosing. Treatment starts with the lowest dose expected to achieve an optimal response.

Most patients administer the injections themselves. Proper technique and strict attention to timing and dosage are important. Although subcutaneous injections may initially seem intimidating, patients usually adapt easily once the nurse explains the procedure in detail, realizing that it resembles injections used by diabetic patients or those on routine blood thinners.

The final step in ovarian stimulation is administering the trigger injection, which induces the final maturation of the eggs. The type and dose of the trigger injection vary depending on the patient’s ovarian response and hormone levels.

Egg Retrieval (OPU)

Approximately 36–40 hours after the trigger injection—which induces final egg maturation—egg retrieval is performed under light sedation anesthesia using transvaginal ultrasound guidance. A needle attached to a special mechanism on the ultrasound probe is advanced into the ovarian follicles, and the follicular fluid is aspirated into a tube using negative pressure.

The aspirated fluid is examined under a microscope in the laboratory by the embryologist, who isolates the eggs and transfers them into a special culture dish. When the number of follicles (mature egg sacs) is low, a flushing procedure may be performed to increase the chance of retrieving an egg from each follicle. Flushing is also recommended for patients who have many follicles but yield fewer eggs than expected during OPU.

The egg retrieval procedure generally takes 15–20 minutes, although this varies depending on the number of follicles and whether follicle flushing is performed. Patients must arrive fasting—no food or drink for at least 8 hours—and should not use deodorant or perfume on the day of the procedure.

Since egg retrieval involves accessing the ovaries located within the abdominal cavity through the vaginal route, there is a theoretical risk of injuring nearby organs or blood vessels, as well as a risk of infection. However, in experienced hands, entering each ovary from a single point minimizes these risks, making complication rates extremely low.

If deemed necessary, prophylactic antibiotics may be administered after the procedure. Following OPU, patients rest for 45–60 minutes, after which they may eat and drink. If they have no nausea or vomiting, they can be discharged. Because light anesthesia is used, patients are advised to rest at home and avoid driving for the remainder of the day. They may take a shower the same day. Mild spotting from the needle entry site can occur and may last 2–3 days.

Sperm Collection

On the day of egg retrieval, the patient’s partner must provide a sperm sample. The sample is obtained through masturbation and is then processed by the embryologist for fertilization. In cases of azoospermia (no sperm in the ejaculate) or erectile dysfunction, sperm can be retrieved directly from the testes using TESE or TESA procedures.

Microinjection (Artificial Fertilization) (ICSI)

After egg retrieval, the cells surrounding the eggs are examined by the embryologist, and fertilization is performed on mature eggs. There are two methods for fertilization. In IVF (in vitro fertilization),sperm cells are placed around the egg inside special culture dishes, and fertilization is expected to occur naturally. In ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection),a single sperm cell is injected directly into the egg by the embryologist using a fine needle under a high-powered microscope. Today, regardless of the cause of infertility, ICSI is preferred because it provides higher fertilization rates.

Fertilized eggs are placed into special culture media that mimic the human body and then kept in incubators that maintain ideal temperature, humidity, and oxygen levels. Approximately 16–18 hours after fertilization, the embryologist checks whether fertilization has occurred. The fertilization rate with ICSI is around 80%, meaning about 80% of retrieved eggs develop into embryos.

The resulting embryos are removed from the incubators and evaluated for quality on day 3 and day 5. With advanced incubators such as the EmbryoScope time-lapse system, embryos can be monitored continuously without exposing them to the external environment, allowing us to observe their development and select the highest-quality embryo.

Embryo Transfer

Following fertilization, embryos are assessed on day 3 based on cell count and fragmentation rate. If many high-quality embryos are present on day 3, further development is monitored until day 5, when blastocyst-stage embryos are evaluated and the best one(s) selected. If the embryo count is low, a day-3 transfer may be preferred. Depending on the woman’s age, one or two embryos may be transferred.

Blastocyst-stage embryos have the highest implantation potential; therefore, transferring at this stage generally provides higher pregnancy rates compared to cleavage-stage transfers. Since our laboratory conditions meet optimal standards, we prefer blastocyst transfer when sufficient embryos are available.

Embryo transfer does not require anesthesia. The procedure is performed with the bladder full, under abdominal ultrasound guidance. A full bladder helps straighten the uterus, allowing the catheter to pass easily through the cervix.

How Is Embryo Transfer Performed?

• The patient is positioned for a gynecological examination. A speculum is inserted to visualize the cervix. The vagina and cervix are cleaned with a solution.
• A trial catheter is passed through the cervical canal to determine which catheter will be used and to assess the angle of the cervical passage.
• The embryologist brings the catheter containing the embryo. While the nurse performs abdominal ultrasound imaging, the catheter is advanced through the cervix and the embryos are gently released into the uterine cavity.
• Performing the procedure under ultrasound guidance ensures that the embryos are placed in the optimal location.

Pregnancy Test

After embryo transfer, the waiting period begins. A blood pregnancy test is performed 12 days after a day-3 embryo transfer or 10 days after a day-5 (blastocyst) transfer to determine the result.

When Should IVF Treatment Be Started?

If the short protocol is being used, IVF treatment at my Turkey clinic begins with ovarian-stimulating injections on the second or third day of menstruation. If the long protocol is preferred, treatment starts with suppressive injections about one week before the expected menstrual period.

For the evaluation of the uterus and fallopian tubes, some patients are advised to undergo hysterosalpingography (HSG). This method is recommended especially for patients with a high probability of tubal obstruction, such as those with endometriosis, hydrosalpinx, a history of ectopic pregnancy, or previous abdominal surgery. In suspicious cases, hysteroscopy can be used both diagnostically and therapeutically, although it is not routinely shown to increase pregnancy rates.

When evaluating the male factor, a semen analysis is performed to examine sperm count, motility, and morphology. In cases of recurrent pregnancy loss or IVF failure, chromosome analysis and clotting tests may be performed; men with azoospermia or low sperm count are also advised to have chromosomal and hormonal evaluations.

During IVF treatment, estradiol, progesterone, and LH hormone levels are monitored with blood tests starting from the second day of menstruation and at specific intervals throughout the process; follicle sizes and endometrial thickness are assessed by ultrasound. These tests are critical for proper planning and monitoring of the treatment.

Medications Used in IVF Treatment

The primary goal in IVF treatment is to stimulate the woman’s ovaries to grow eggs. Injection doses are determined based on the patient’s ovarian reserve, age, weight, and body mass index. Injections containing FSH, LH, or both are administered subcutaneously. If the short protocol is chosen, antagonist injections—commonly known as “blocking injections”—are added once the follicles reach a certain size to prevent premature ovulation.

When the follicles reach the desired size, a trigger injection containing the hCG hormone is administered. Egg retrieval is performed two days after the trigger injection. On the day after egg collection, estrogen and progesterone support is initiated to prepare and maintain the uterine lining; these medications continue until embryo transfer and up to the pregnancy test.

The injections used during treatment are easy-to-apply, patient-friendly injections similar to insulin or blood-thinning injections and can usually be self-administered by the patient.

IVF Treatment Prices in Turkey

Prices of IVF treatment in Turkey can vary depending on several factors such as the clinic, treatment protocol, and additional services. IVF is generally considered a high-investment medical procedure and may not be covered by health insurance in many countries.

The price of IVF includes several components such as laboratory procedures, medications, physician consultations, embryo transfer, and, in some cases, embryo freezing. In Turkey, IVF treatment prices are expected to range between 80,000–150,000 TRY (excluding medications) in 2026. Medications may require an additional 35,000–45,000 TRY.

Prices may vary from country to country and even between cities; however, IVF treatment in Turkey is generally more affordable. For detailed information about the IVF process and pricing, you can contact us via:

WhatsApp: +90 501 331 41 30 Phone: +90 312 504 54 91

IVF Treatment Success Rates

One of the most significant factors affecting IVF success is the woman’s age. As age increases, both ovarian reserve and egg quality decline. The likelihood of numerical and structural chromosomal abnormalities during egg division also rises with age. This negatively affects the chance of pregnancy and increases the risk of miscarriage.

Although diminished ovarian reserve can sometimes be seen at younger ages, it becomes more common with age, resulting in fewer eggs being collected and consequently fewer high-quality embryos. Studies have shown that mitochondrial function—responsible for energy production in the egg cell—also weakens with age, which can negatively impact fertilization due to increased energy demands.

With the transfer of a high-quality embryo in women under 35, pregnancy rates can reach up to 60%. For women aged 35–38, this rate is around 50% with the transfer of two high-quality embryos. Between ages 40–42, the rate is approximately 30%, and after age 45, pregnancy rates fall below 5%.

Embryo quality and the day of embryo transfer are also crucial for success. Uterine abnormalities such as polyps, fibroids, congenital anomalies, or fluid accumulation in the tubes (hydrosalpinx) can reduce pregnancy chances.

Since IVF treatment requires meticulous attention at every stage, it should be performed by experienced physicians who have been working in this field for many years. Choosing the correct protocol, adjusting the appropriate medication dosage, timing the trigger injection, performing egg retrieval, and embryo transfer are all processes that require expertise and precision.

Because eggs, sperm, and embryos are delicate and highly sensitive to external conditions, laboratory quality is critically important. We are fortunate to work in world-class laboratories with highly experienced embryologists, which ensures the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Factors Affecting Success in IVF Treatment

For a successful IVF treatment, a good-quality embryo and a healthy endometrium are essential. Since an embryo is formed by the union of the egg and sperm cells, both cells must be of high quality.

The most important factor affecting egg quality is the woman’s age. As maternal age increases, egg quality decreases. Smoking, alcohol consumption, and stress can also negatively affect cell quality and overall success rates.

The endometrium (uterine lining) must also be in a receptive phase, meaning it must have the appropriate characteristics for embryo implantation. The window of implantation—when the endometrium can accept the embryo—is limited, and it must not be missed. Premature or excessively high rises in hormones during treatment can impair implantation. Therefore, hormone levels should be closely monitored.

During embryo transfer, it is important for the endometrium to have the desired thickness and to be free of any space-occupying lesions such as polyps or fibroids. Adhesions that may develop after previous curettage or intrauterine surgeries should also be absent. If any of these pathologies are present, removal of polyps or fibroids or correction of adhesions is recommended before the transfer.

In my IVF clinic in Ankara, Turkey one of the most critical steps affecting success is the embryo transfer itself. The transfer should be performed as gently as possible and without causing uterine contractions.

Frequently Asked Questions About IVF Treatment Turkey

How Long Does IVF Treatment Take?

From the start of IVF treatment until embryo transfer, the process takes an average of 12–15 days.

How Many Months Does IVF Treatment Take in Total?

Although the duration may vary depending on the patient’s ovarian response, the period from the beginning of treatment to embryo transfer generally takes 15–20 days.

A blood pregnancy test is performed 10–12 days after embryo transfer to determine the result.

If the result is negative, all medications are discontinued. Menstrual bleeding usually begins within 7–10 days after stopping the medication.

For patients whose ovaries produced many eggs but who received a negative test result, it is recommended to wait at least one month before starting a new treatment cycle. This time allows the ovaries to return to normal size and hormone levels to reset.

There is no upper limit to the number of IVF cycles. As long as there is no medical contraindication and the patient feels emotionally and financially ready, IVF treatment can be repeated.

What Should Be Considered During IVF Treatment?

During IVF treatment, the same principles recommended for a healthy lifestyle apply:

• A low-carbohydrate, high-protein, Mediterranean-style diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and olive oil is recommended.
• Drink plenty of water—preferably at least 3 liters per day.
• Avoid carbonated drinks and processed or packaged foods; choose natural, homemade foods instead.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, avoid raw meat, and ensure all meats are well-cooked.
• Alcohol and smoking should be avoided, and caffeine intake should be limited.
• Light nature walks, Pilates, yoga, and breathing exercises can help reduce stress.
• Positive thinking and affirmations can make the process emotionally easier.

Can Everyone Undergo IVF Treatment?

As long as a woman has not entered menopause and sperm can be obtained from the man—even in cases of azoospermia using TESA/TESE techniques—IVF treatment can be performed.

The goal of IVF is to create a healthy embryo; therefore, if no egg or sperm cell can be obtained, IVF treatment cannot proceed.

Additionally, a legal marriage certificate is required to undergo IVF treatment in Turkey.

Is Gender Selection Possible With IVF?

The gender of embryos cannot be determined based on appearance. However, when a biopsy is taken from the embryo, genetic testing can identify both chromosome structure and gender.

Nevertheless, performing IVF for the purpose of gender selection is prohibited in Turkey according to the Regulation on Assisted Reproductive Treatments and Assisted Reproduction Centers.

Are There Any Risks in IVF Treatment?

During IVF treatment, women with a high ovarian reserve who develop many mature eggs and experience significantly elevated hormone levels may develop a condition known as Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS).

To prevent this, we keep medication doses as low as possible for patients who are thin and have a strong ovarian reserve, follow them closely, adjust the type of trigger injection when necessary, and sometimes avoid embryo transfer in that cycle to eliminate the risk.

Complications can occur during the egg retrieval procedure, but when performed meticulously by experienced hands, the risk is extremely low.

During embryo transfer, although very rare, transferring high-quality embryos at the blastocyst stage (day 5) may increase the chance of the embryo dividing on its own and resulting in identical twins.

How Many Times Can IVF Be Performed?

IVF treatment can be repeated as many times as desired, as long as the patient feels emotionally and financially ready.

Does IVF Treatment Have Any Negative Effects on the Mother?

IVF treatment does not have any negative effects on the mother. The hormones used during treatment have not been shown to cause any type of cancer.

Is There an Age Limit for IVF Treatment?

There is no age limit for IVF treatment as long as the woman has not entered menopause. However, it should be kept in mind that the success rate of IVF decreases with age, and treatment should not be delayed.

Does Age Affect the Chance of Pregnancy in IVF Treatment?

Today, many women postpone marriage and having children due to career planning. However, the period of highest fertility in women is between the ages of 20 and 30. From the early 30s, reproductive capacity begins to decrease steadily; after age 35, this decline becomes more pronounced, and in the 40s, the chance of pregnancy reaches its lowest levels.

The main reason age negatively affects pregnancy success is the decline in ovarian reserve and egg quality over time. Therefore, even if a woman is not planning pregnancy, regular gynecological check-ups are important. This allows for early detection of risks related to ovarian reserve or any conditions requiring intervention in the uterus or ovaries. Consulting a specialist helps understand the impact of age on fertility correctly and prevents unnecessary loss of time.

Which Doctor or Department Should You Visit for IVF Treatment in Turkey?

For IVF treatment, you should consult an obstetrician-gynecologist who has completed the certification program in assisted reproductive technologies and is licensed to perform such treatments. In Turkey, you may choose Assoc. Prof. Dr. İlknur Selvi Gümüş for IVF treatment.

The Importance of Nutrition in IVF Treatment

Healthy nutrition is essential at every stage of life, but it becomes even more important for those planning to conceive. Smoking and alcohol decrease the quality of both eggs and sperm. A protein-rich and low-carbohydrate diet is recommended.

Should a Special Diet Be Followed Before IVF Treatment?

Before and during IVF treatment, the general principles of healthy eating apply. A protein-rich and low-carbohydrate diet, Mediterranean-style meals with olive oil, vegetables, and fruits, and consuming at least 3 liters of water daily are recommended. Natural, homemade foods should be preferred over processed and packaged ones. Vegetables and fruits should be washed thoroughly, raw meat should be avoided, and meats should be cooked well. During this period, alcohol and smoking should be avoided, and caffeine intake should be limited.

Are Pregnancies Achieved Through IVF Different from Natural Pregnancies?

Pregnancies achieved through IVF do not differ from naturally conceived pregnancies in terms of course or outcomes. The rates of congenital anomalies are similar. However, in IVF treatment, transferring two embryos is sometimes considered for women over 35 or those with two or more unsuccessful attempts, which increases the risk of multiple pregnancy. Multiple pregnancies carry higher risks of preterm birth, hypertension, and gestational diabetes.

In Which Cases Is IVF Treatment Not Recommended?

IVF treatment requires an egg cell, a sperm cell, and a uterus for the embryo to implant. Therefore, IVF cannot be performed on women who have entered menopause and no longer menstruate, men who have no sperm in their semen and from whom no sperm can be retrieved through TESE, or women who are congenitally without a uterus.

Are There Preconditions for IVF Treatment in Turkey?

According to national regulations, couples undergoing IVF must have an official marriage certificate. Only the egg and sperm cells belonging to the couple can be used in treatment. Donor egg, donor sperm, and donor embryo use is prohibited.

When Is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) Preferred During IVF Treatment?

During IVF treatment, if early ovulation occurs before the planned egg retrieval—especially in patients with low ovarian reserve—treatment may be completed with intrauterine insemination (IUI) to preserve the chance of pregnancy.