Treatment & preservation · In plain English

IVF (in vitro fertilisation)

A treatment in which eggs are collected and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory. An embryo may then be transferred into the womb.

Also searched as: in vitro fertilization, in vitro fertilisation

Why you might see this term

IVF includes several stages, and some cycles involve freezing embryos for transfer later. A clinic can explain the plan, costs and likely response.

What to keep in mind

IVF is not a guarantee of pregnancy or live birth. Ask which success measure is being quoted and whether it applies to your age and situation.

Sources & further reading

Prepared by ProFertility · Updated 23 October 2026.

Educational information based on the linked sources. This explanation is not an individual diagnosis or a treatment recommendation. A term appearing here does not mean the test is necessary or included in a particular kit.

Suggest a correction or ask a question →

Looking up another word?

You can search by abbreviation, full name or everyday language.

Back to the fertility A–Z →