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How do gamete intrafallopian transfer and standard IVF differ?
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infertility
Major structures and hormones involved in the initiation of pregnancy. Also seen, at right, is the development of an egg cell (ovum) from follicle to embryo.
Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT) and standard in vitro fertilization (IVF) are both assisted reproductive technologies, but they differ primarily in where fertilization occurs and the requirements for the procedure.1
- Site of Fertilization: In standard IVF, eggs are fertilized by sperm in a laboratory setting outside the body. In contrast, with GIFT, the collected eggs and sperm are mixed and then placed directly into a fallopian tube, meaning fertilization occurs naturally inside the body (in vivo).21
- Anatomical Requirements: Because GIFT requires the transfer of gametes into the fallopian tube, it is generally used only for women who have at least one unobstructed fallopian tube. Standard IVF is often used for women with blocked or absent fallopian tubes, as the embryo is placed directly into the uterus.12
- Procedure: GIFT requires the use of a laparoscope to insert the gametes into the fallopian tube and necessitates the use of anesthesia, whereas standard IVF involves the transfer of a developed embryo into the uterus through the cervix.321