In Vivo Fertilization vs In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Understanding Fertility Options

When learning about fertility treatments, most people are familiar with in vitro fertilization (IVF), but fewer have heard of in vivo fertilization (IVF-in vivo). Both approaches are designed to help individuals and couples grow their families, yet they differ in where fertilization takes place, how the process works, and when each might be recommended. Understanding these differences can help intended parents make informed choices about their fertility journey.

What Is In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)?

“In vitro” means “in glass” in Latin, referring to the fact that fertilization occurs outside the body, usually in a culture dish in a laboratory.

How it works: During in vitro fertilization (IVF), the intended parent or egg donor undergoes ovarian stimulation to produce multiple eggs. These eggs are then retrieved and combined with intended parents sperm or donor sperm in a laboratory to create embryos.​​Once the embryos are cultured and genetically tested for viability, one or more are transferred to the uterus of the intended parent or a gestational surrogate, where pregnancy can occur.

Benefits of IVF:

• Widely available and highly researched.

• Embryos can be tested for genetic conditions before transfer.

• Gives flexibility when using donor eggs, donor sperm, or a gestational surrogate.

  
  

The IVF process takes place in a carefully controlled laboratory setting, allowing embryologists to optimize the fertilization process. This means they can select the healthiest eggs and the best-quality sperm, use techniques to improve embryo development, and generally increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.

Considerations:

• IVF is invasive and can be physically and emotionally demanding and often includes weeks of IVF injections.

• The process is usually costly and may require multiple cycles.

  
  

IVF is the most widely known form of assisted reproductive technology (ART) and is often recommended for couples facing more complex fertility challenges. Some challenges that women may face are endometriosis, ovulation disorders, blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, or low ovarian reserve (poor egg quality).

Men may have low sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormal sperm morphology, hormonal imbalances, or varicocele. In general, advanced parental age or recurrent pregnancy loss can also affect fertility. IVF provides a highly controlled environment, giving embryologists the ability to optimize fertilization and select the healthiest eggs and sperm, increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy.

What Is In Vivo Fertilization (IVF-In Vivo)?

The term “In vivo” comes from the Latin meaning “in life.” During this process fertilization happens inside the body rather than in a laboratory. This includes natural conception as well as assisted methods such as:

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): where sperm is placed directly into the uterus to increase the chances of fertilization.

Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT): eggs and sperm are placed into the fallopian tube, allowing fertilization to occur naturally within the body.

INVOcell treatment is also an option where eggs are retrieved and placed with sperm inside a special device (INVOcell) which is placed into the woman’s vaginal cavity, where fertilization and early embryo development occur naturally. After several days, the embryos are removed and transferred to the uterus. This method is best for those looking for a lower-cost alternative to IVF that still offers controlled fertilization.

Benefits of in vivo fertilization:

• Fertilization occurs in a natural environment within the body.

• Typically less expensive than traditional IVF.

• Can provide a more personal or “shared” experience for couples, as the female partner carries part of the fertilization process.

  
  

Considerations:

• Not as widely available as IVF.

• Limited embryo monitoring compared to lab-based IVF.

• Success rates may be lower depending on individual circumstances.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choosing between in vitro fertilization and in vivo fertilization depends on personal, medical, and financial factors. For some intended parents, traditional IVF may be the best path, especially if advanced monitoring, genetic testing, or third-party reproduction (egg donors or surrogacy) is needed. For others, in vivo fertilization may offer a more natural and cost-effective alternative. 

Always make sure to consult your physician before making this decision and consider getting multiple medical opinions to ensure you are making the best choice for yourself and your individual circumstances. 

At Babymoon Surrogacy, we guide intended parents through every step of their family-building journey, connecting them with trusted fertility specialists to explore the options best suited to their needs.