In Vitro Fertilization Checklist

Had IVF or thinking about it? Take this list to your healthcare provider.

The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine recommends the following steps for people planning in vitro fertilization (IVF) or who have become pregnant with IVF. An important part of pre-IVF pregnancy planning is genetic counseling, in which you learn about your risks for genetic disorders and options for genetic testing. During the pregnancy, tests and exams are recommended to help find problems early.

Because everyone is different, you should discuss these steps with your healthcare provider. Not everyone needs all the tests and exams listed here. In some cases, depending on your health and how you achieve your pregnancy, other tests may be recommended. 

    • Any health issues you have, including high blood pressure or diabetes

    • Any medications you are taking and whether they are safe for pregnancy

    • Genetic counseling to discuss:

      • Tests for genetic disorders in those who are providing the eggs and sperm (which may be you, your partner, or donors)

      • Benefits and risks of preimplantation genetic testing (before pregnancy) 

    • Should you take low-dose aspirin to prevent preeclampsia?

    • What are the options for screening tests or diagnostic tests for chromosome disorders? 

    • If you have a multifetal pregnancy, discuss the benefits and risks of multifetal pregnancy reduction.

    • Have a detailed ultrasound exam (to look for birth defects and placenta problems)

    • Have a fetal echocardiogram (heart ultrasound to look for heart defects)

    • Ultrasound to check fetal growth

    • Testing every week to check on fetal well-being, starting at 36 weeks or earlier

    • The best timing and method for birth

Glossary

Chromosome Disorder: A disorder caused by an abnormal number of chromosomes, the structures within cells that carry genes. Every normal human cell (except for eggs and sperm) has 46 chromosomes.  

Diagnostic Test: A test that determines whether a disease or other problem is present with a high degree of accuracy.  

Fetal Echocardiogram: An ultrasound exam that checks the structure and function of the fetal heart.    

Genetic Disorder: Any disorder caused by a genetic change, an abnormal number or structure of chromosomes, or a combination of genetic and other factors.  

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): A procedure in which the egg and sperm are combined in a laboratory. The resulting embryo is transferred to the uterus a few days later or frozen for future transfer.  

Multifetal Pregnancy: Pregnancy with more than one fetus, such as twins, triplets, or more. 

Multifetal Pregnancy Reduction: A procedure that reduces the number of fetuses in a multifetal pregnancy to decrease the risk of pregnancy complications.   

Placenta: A fetal organ that attaches to the uterus to allow transfer of nutrients, antibodies, and oxygen to the fetus from the pregnant person. It also makes hormones that sustain the pregnancy.   

Preeclampsia: A disorder that can occur during pregnancy in which the blood pressure goes too high. It can damage many organs in the body, including the kidneys, brain, and liver. 

Preimplantation Genetic Testing: Lab testing that looks for genetic disorders in embryos created through IVF before they are inserted into the uterus.  

Screening Test: A test that assesses the chance that a disorder or other problem is present.  

Ultrasound: Use of sound waves to create images of internal organs or the fetus during pregnancy.  

 

Last Updated: April 2024