Assisted reproduction offers a way to achieve pregnancy when natural conception does not happen or other medical indications are present. The Fertility Center of Baltic American Clinic in Vilnius uses modern infertility treatment methods – intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilisation (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and PICSI.
In a specialised class A embryology laboratory, gametes are prepared, eggs are fertilised, and embryos are cultured, assessed and frozen. The treatment method is chosen individually after assessing the causes of infertility, the health of both partners and the results of any previous treatment.
Modern laboratory equipment and specialised fertilisation and embryo culture technologies.
IUI, IVF, ICSI and PICSI procedures, used according to medical indications.
Fertility doctors and embryologists work together at every stage of treatment.
Each couple receives a clear treatment plan and consistent attention from the specialists.
When is assisted reproduction recommended?
- Fallopian tube blockage or damage has been found.
- Significant changes in semen parameters have been diagnosed.
- Treatment of ovulation disorders has not led to pregnancy.
- Endometriosis or other conditions affecting fertility have been found.
- Other infertility treatments have not led to pregnancy.
- The cause of infertility has not been found, but assisted reproduction is recommended after assessing the couple’s situation.
Which assisted reproduction methods are used?
Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
IUI is a procedure in which specially prepared sperm is placed into the uterine cavity around the time of ovulation. Fertilisation takes place inside the woman’s body.
This method may be recommended for certain fertility problems when the fallopian tubes are open and the semen parameters give a reasonable expectation of success.
In vitro fertilisation (IVF)
IVF is an assisted reproduction method in which eggs are fertilised with sperm in the embryology laboratory.
After ovarian stimulation, mature eggs are collected. In the laboratory they are fertilised, and the resulting embryos are cultured and assessed. Depending on the treatment plan, the selected embryo is transferred to the uterus or frozen for a later transfer.
The clinic’s range of services also includes natural cycle procedures, in which treatment is adapted to the individual situation.
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
ICSI is a method in which a single sperm is injected directly into the egg by microinjection.
This method may be used when there are significant changes in semen parameters, previous fertilisation problems or other medical indications.
PICSI
PICSI is an additional sperm selection method based on the ability of sperm to bind to hyaluronic acid.
The method may be considered in certain clinical situations together with ICSI. It is not necessary for every patient, and any additional benefit is assessed individually.
How do IVF and ICSI work?
1. Assessment and preparation. The doctor assesses both partners’ health and test results and draws up an individual treatment plan.
2. Ovarian stimulation. Medicines are given to stimulate follicle growth. Their development is monitored by ultrasound.
3. Egg collection. Eggs are collected from the ovaries by an ultrasound-guided puncture. Depending on the procedure, anaesthesia may be used.
4. Fertilisation in the laboratory. The eggs are fertilised using IVF or ICSI.
5. Embryo culture and assessment. Embryologists monitor embryo development and assess whether embryos are suitable for transfer or freezing.
6. Embryo transfer. Depending on the treatment plan, an embryo is transferred into the uterine cavity or frozen for a future transfer.
7. Pregnancy test. A pregnancy test is done at the time specified by the doctor, and further care is planned.
Embryology laboratory procedures
Depending on the treatment plan, the following procedures may be performed at the clinic:
- Sperm preparation for assisted reproduction procedures.
- Fertilisation of eggs by IVF or ICSI.
- Additional sperm selection by PICSI.
- Embryo culture and assessment of development.
- Embryo monitoring in a time-lapse incubator.
- Blastocyst culture.
- Assisted hatching (thinning of the zona pellucida).
- Embryo freezing, thawing and transfer.
- Testicular sperm aspiration (TESA) when medically indicated.
Not every couple needs all laboratory procedures. The choice of additional methods depends on the specific medical situation, and their use does not guarantee pregnancy.
How to prepare for assisted reproduction
Before treatment begins, the tests ordered by the doctor are done, both partners’ health is assessed and the medicines they take are discussed.
Patients receive individual instructions on stimulation, taking medicines, the timing of procedures and follow-up care. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and not to change the prescribed treatment on your own.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between IUI and IVF?
In IUI, prepared sperm is placed in the uterus and fertilisation takes place inside the woman’s body. In IVF, the eggs are fertilised in the laboratory.
What is the difference between IVF and ICSI?
In conventional IVF, the eggs are fertilised with sperm in the laboratory. In ICSI, a single sperm is injected directly into the egg.
Is IVF painful?
Anaesthesia may be used during egg collection. Temporary aching or discomfort is possible after the procedure. Embryo transfer is usually done without anaesthesia.
Does every couple need ICSI or PICSI?
No. The method is chosen according to medical indications. Additional laboratory technologies do not always improve treatment results.
Can IVF be done in a natural cycle?
In some cases, yes. The doctor assesses whether this method is suitable based on ovarian function and other individual circumstances.
Does assisted reproduction guarantee pregnancy?
No. Treatment results depend on the woman’s age, the quality of the eggs and sperm, the causes of infertility and other factors.
Can unused embryos be frozen?
Yes, where medical and legal conditions allow. Options for embryo freezing and storage are discussed before the procedure.
Can assisted reproduction be reimbursed?
In certain cases, assisted reproduction services are reimbursed under the rules in force in Lithuania. Eligibility for reimbursement is assessed individually.
Assisted reproduction prices
The cost of treatment depends on the chosen method, the scope of procedures, the medicines needed and any additional laboratory services. The expected costs are discussed when the individual treatment plan is drawn up.