Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT)
The transfer of the spermatozoa and the ovum, together, into the fallopian tubes so that fertilization may take place. It is a method of Assisted Reproduction that can be performed in Costa Rica. It is useful for patients meeting the following criteria: Failed Inseminations, Unexplained Infertility, Male Factor (poor sperm), Endometriosis, Cervical Factor, Immunological Factor, Hormonal Disturbances and Eligible Candidates for egg donor treatments.
REQUISITES:
1. That the female patient must have at least one permeable fallopian tube (demonstrable by way of Hysterosalpingography or Laparoscopy).
2. That the male must have a minimum sperm count of 2 million mobile spermatozoids (after two spermograms).
3. The female patient must be under 40 years of age.
WHAT WILL THE PATIENT BE SUBJECTED TO DURING THE PROCESS?
In short, there
are 6 stages:
1. Allignment: It consists of the use of contraceptive pills in order to sychronize the ovaries and uterus in the same period of the menstrual cycle.
2. Induction and Follicular Monitoring: Induction consists of the use of medication starting on the 5th day post-contraceptive use. This is done so that the ovaries grow and produce the necessary amount of follicles. Follicular Monitoring in turn consists of ultrasound checkups on the 1st, 7th and 10th day of this stage in order to measure the amount of Ovarian Follicles and therefore adjust the medication dosages as well as determine the date for Follicular Aspiration.
3. Collection of Semen samples: This stage consists of the collection of semen samples in the comfort and privacy of your own home. At this moment the male partner must have ideally 3 to 5 days of sexual abstinence. The actual collection must be completed 1 hour after Follicular Aspiration.
4. Follicular Aspiration: It is the suctioning of the Ovarian Follicles while the female patient is under the effects of anesthetics by way of a vaginal ultrasound-guided needle. The procedure takes place ideally between the 12th and 14th days of the cycle.
5. Gamete Transfer: It is the placement of the gametes (both ova and spermatozoids) within the fallopian tubes by way of a catheter (tube). The procedure is done while the patient is under the effects of anesthetics.
6. Waiting Period: It is the following 14 days, during which a specific amount of progesterone must be used. On the 14th day a blood pregnancy test must be administered.
WHAT IS THE SUCCESS RATE WITH THIS KIND OF PROCEDURE?
With this procedure pregnancy rate goes from 33 to 40%, depending on the patient's age and cause of infertility.
Price: $3000.
(the above rate does not include consultations or medications).
Special Services (if required):
Ovum donor $4000 US (includes the medications for the donor). You may also provide your own donor and pay only $200 US for the anesthetics, plus the cost of medication (approx. $1000 US). The ovum donors apply for women over 40 years of age.
Sperm donor $600 US.
For arrangements for this procedure make an appointment at either of the following phone numbers:
(506) 8911-7777 OR (506) 2208-8419 |
