Types of Assisted Reproductive Technology

Types of Assisted Reproductive Technology

Some commonly used methods of ART include

1. In vitro fertilization (IVF) – one of the most common forms of ART is IVF. Here fertilization occurs outside the body.

2. Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT) – It involves the transfer of sperms and eggs into the fallopian tube of a woman where fertilization takes place.

3. Zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT) – also known as tubal embryo transfer is somewhat similar to IVF wherein fertilization takes place outside the body. The young embryo is then inserted into the fallopian tube and not the uterus.

4. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) – this technique is usually used for couples where the male is infertile. Sometimes it is also used for those with failed IVF attempts or even for older couples. Here the principle that is followed is that a single sperm is introduced into a mature egg, contrary to what is seen in conventional fertilization techniques wherein the sperm and egg is placed in a petri dish and the sperm fertilizes the egg on its own.

5. Artificial insemination – deliberate introduction of sperms into the female’s cervix or uterus to achieve pregnancy without sexual intercourse. It can of the following types:

Intrauterine insemination

Intracervical insemination

Intratubal insemination