The ABCs of ART: A clear look at your options

Navigating the world of fertility can feel like learning a new language. If you are exploring ways to grow your family, you’ve likely encountered the term Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART).

At its core, ART refers to medical procedures used to address infertility by handling (genetic material) both eggs and sperm. At Newlife IVF Greece, we believe that understanding your options is the first step toward a confident journey. Here is a compact guide to the primary pathways available today.

1. IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) & ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
   In a standard IVF cycle, eggs are fertilised by sperm outside the uterus in the embryology lab. In Classical IVF, freshly washed sperm are placed in the same dish as the eggs and left to fertilise overnight. Once the embryos develop, one or more are transferred back into the uterus.
   ICSI is a more specialised technique of IVF. Instead of placing sperm in a dish with the egg, a single, high-quality sperm is injected directly into the centre of the egg to assist fertilisation under a specially modified microscope . ICSI overcomes barriers that prevent natural fertilization and significantly increases success rates in challenging cases.
2. Egg Donation
   For women whose own eggs may not lead to a healthy pregnancy—due to age, premature ovarian failure, or genetic concerns—egg donation offers a high success rate. This involves using eggs from a young, healthy donor, which are then fertilised and transferred to the recipient.
3. Cryopreservation (Social Egg Freezing)
   ART isn’t just for immediate needs; it’s about future-proofing. Egg or embryo freezing allows individuals to preserve their fertility at its current peak, providing a “biological pause” for those not yet ready to start a family.

Why the right choice matters

Every fertility journey is unique. Success isn’t just about the technology; it’s about the personalised protocol—the specific combination of timing, medication, and technique tailored to your medical profile/history.

Did you know? Greece has become a global hub for ART due to its robust legal framework, high success rates, and advanced laboratory standards.

Your next step

Understanding the “ABCs” is a great start. Still, nothing replaces a conversation with a specialist who can look at your specific needs. Contact our team of experts today, and book your free medical consultation now!