In Vitro Maturation (IVM), often referred to as drug-free IVF, is a fertility treatment where eggs are collected before they reach full maturity and are subsequently matured in a laboratory setting. This approach is particularly beneficial for patients who may be at risk of complications from, or prefer to avoid, the hormonal stimulation medications typically used in conventional in vitro fertilization.
The procedure involves monitoring the growth of follicles, collecting the immature oocytes, and then allowing them to mature in a specialized culture medium for approximately 24 hours. Following maturation, the eggs are fertilized using microinjection (ICSI) with sperm from the partner. The resulting embryos are usually cryopreserved and transferred in a subsequent menstrual cycle. While IVM offers a valuable alternative, its use has become less common with the advent of improved conventional IVF protocols.