< Back to the Blog
Fertility

What Is Assisted Reproductive Technology?

Kylie Han
Kylie Han

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) helps people achieve pregnancy. There are different types of ART, so it’s important to talk to your doctor and fertility specialist about which option is best for you.

Modified On:
Published:
May 12, 2025
Est. Read Time:
0
Published:
Aug 10, 2025
Est. Read Time:
0

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) helps people achieve pregnancy. There are different types of ART, so it’s important to talk to your doctor and fertility specialist about which option is best for you.

Fertility
Share to:
No items found.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) helps people achieve pregnancy. There are different types of ART, so it’s important to talk to your doctor and fertility specialist about which option is best for you.

For those experiencing infertility and difficulty getting pregnant, assisted reproductive technology can help. Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is an umbrella term for fertility procedures and treatments involving either eggs or embryos to aid in achieving a pregnancy. It supports those experiencing infertility, couples with genetic conditions, LGBTQ+ families, single parents by choice, and more.  

What is Assisted Reproductive Technology?

ART typically involves surgically removing eggs from a woman’s uterus, combining them with sperm in the lab, and transferring the embryo into the uterus for implantation. It specifically includes procedures involving eggs and embryos. ART does not include treatments where only sperm are involved or where women take medication to stimulate egg production without egg retrieval. 

>>MORE: What Is Fertility Preservation?

Understanding infertility

Infertility is diagnosed when a person is unable to get pregnant after a year or longer of unprotected sex. It’s common among both men and women. In the US, 1 in 5 women between the ages of 15 and 49 experience infertility with their first pregnancy (1). Causes of infertility can vary and include reproductive health conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, ovulatory disorders, low sperm count, or other health factors like age and obesity (2).

The process of getting pregnant involves several stages. Once the follicles in the ovary develop a fully mature egg, the ovary releases the egg, a process called ovulation. It travels down the fallopian tube, where it waits to be fertilized by sperm. If it’s fertilized by sperm, the egg continues to the uterus and attaches to the lining of the uterus (endometrium), an event known as implantation, and you become pregnant. 

ART involves manipulating these stages of conception to increase chances of pregnancy. The most common type of ART is in-vitro fertilization (IVF), where it combines egg and sperm outside the body to create viable embryos. 

Types of ART 

In-vitro fertilization (IVF): The most common ART procedure. IVF involves incubating the egg and sperm in a lab to create an embryo, which is then transferred into the uterus. While IVF doesn’t guarantee pregnancy, women under 35 have live birth rates of up to 55% with IVF (3). 

There are four steps to IVF: 

  1. Superovulation: Also known as ovarian stimulation. Hormones are injected over 8 to 14 days to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs. Egg retrieval occurs 34 to 36 hours after the final hormone injection. 
  2. Egg retrieval: A needle is inserted through the wall of the vagina into the ovaries to suction and collect eggs. Some eggs may be frozen and stored for future use if the patient wants to delay pregnancy or if fresh embryos fail to implant. 
  3. Fertilization: The eggs are incubated with the sperm to form an embryo. If the sperm is not able to fertilize the egg on its own, a single sperm is injected into the egg using a needle, a process called intracytoplasmic sperm injection, or ICSI. 
  4. Embryo transfer: The resulting embryo is placed back into the uterus 1 to 6 days after fertilization, using a long, thin tube. Embryo transfer is timed with the patient's ovulation cycle or medically managed with estrogen and progesterone medication to prepare the uterine lining for implantation. 

Intrauterine insemination (IUI): IUI is a less-invasive procedure, sometimes called artificial insemination. Sperm is inserted directly into the uterus using a long narrow tube. This method is often used for men who have low sperm count or where sperm donation is needed. While success depends on a variety of factors and the cause of the couple’s infertility, success rates can be as high as 20% (4). 

Third party-assisted ART: This is another type of ART where patients may opt for assisted reproductive technology with third-party involvement such as donated sperm, eggs, embryos, surrogacy, or a gestational carrier to achieve pregnancy. This method may be used if other fertility treatments and traditional ART methods do not work. 

  • Sperm donation: Donated sperm may be an option if the man does not produce sperm, produces a low quantity of sperm, is a carrier of a genetic disease, or if the woman is pursuing pregnancy without a partner. This can be used with IVF or IUI methods. 
  • Egg donation: This is an option for women who cannot produce viable eggs due to ovarian conditions, cancer treatment, or surgical removal of ovaries. The egg donor undergoes superovulation and egg retrieval. The donated egg is fertilized by chosen sperm and the embryo is implanted into the woman’s uterus. 
  • Surrogates or gestational carriers: If a woman is unable to carry a pregnancy to term, they may choose a surrogate or gestational carrier. 
    • Surrogate: A woman is inseminated with the sperm from the male. The child will be biologically related to the surrogate and the male.
    • Gestational carrier: The embryo is not biologically related to the carrier. This is an option when a woman produces healthy eggs but is unable to carry the pregnancy. 
  • Embryo donation: Couples who have successfully completed IVF, they may choose to donate their remaining embryos. This allows the recipient to experience pregnancy and childbirth. This may be an option for women who are infertile and have been unsuccessful with IVF or at high risk of passing on genetic disorders. 

ART risks and considerations

While ART can help assist in creating a healthy embryo, it doesn’t guarantee pregnancy. These procedures are also intensive and can cause bleeding, infection, mood swings, and other physical and emotional discomfort. IVF increases the risk of multiple births, premature delivery, miscarriage, and low birth weight. 

These treatments are also expensive. A single cycle of IVF–including one egg retrieval, embryo transfers, and medications–can cost upwards of $25,000. Plus, doctors may recommend multiple rounds of IVF to increase the chance of success. Some insurance plans and employers may offer fertility benefits to reduce the costs (5). 

>>MORE: Fertility Treatment Options, Summarized

Assisted Reproductive Technology: the bottom line

Navigating infertility can be emotionally and physically challenging. Infertility is no one’s fault, and ART provides valuable options to help you build your family. Everyone’s fertility journey is unique, so it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider and fertility specialist to determine the best approach. Understanding your fertility options enables you to make informed decisions about your path to parenthood.

About the author

Kylie Han
Kylie Han is a writer from Oakland, California. She's the SEO Manager at The Infatuation, where she loves to support the work of writers and highlight local restaurants. She is also a contributing writer at The Infatuation and is excited to get involved in reproductive health, a passion of hers.

Sources

https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I take progesterone if I'm breastfeeding?
Yes, progesterone is generally safe while breastfeeding and doesn't significantly affect milk supply. However, always discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any hormone supplementation while nursing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Is it safe to take progesterone throughout pregnancy?
Yes, when prescribed by your healthcare provider. Progesterone supplementation in early pregnancy is safe and can reduce miscarriage risk in women with low progesterone or a history of pregnancy loss. Most providers continue supplementation through the first trimester (weeks 10-12) when the placenta takes over.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can progesterone supplementation cause weight gain?
Progesterone can cause temporary water retention and bloating, which may show up as a few pounds on the scale, but it doesn't cause true fat weight gain. Most women don't experience significant weight changes from progesterone supplementation.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I switch from pills to suppositories or vice versa?
Yes, but only under your doctor's guidance. The dosing and timing may need adjustment when switching between forms since they're absorbed differently. Never switch on your own, especially if you're pregnant or undergoing fertility treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Will progesterone supplementation delay my period?
Yes, progesterone keeps the uterine lining intact, so if you're not pregnant and continue taking progesterone, your period will be delayed. Once you stop taking it, your period should start within 2-10 days. If you are pregnant, progesterone helps maintain the pregnancy and you won't get a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Should I take progesterone pills orally or vaginally?
For fertility and pregnancy support, vaginal progesterone is usually preferred because it delivers higher concentrations directly to the uterus. For perimenopause or general hormone balance, oral progesterone often works well and is more convenient. Your doctor will recommend the best route based on your specific needs.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
When should I start taking progesterone after ovulation?
Typically, progesterone supplementation for luteal phase support starts 2-3 days after ovulation (confirmed by LH surge or temperature rise). Your doctor will give you specific timing based on your protocol. Some women start immediately after a positive ovulation test.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
What's better: progesterone cream or pills?
Pills (oral micronized progesterone) are generally more effective and reliable than creams because absorption from creams is inconsistent. For medical conditions like fertility issues, low progesterone, or HRT, prescription pills or suppositories are strongly recommended over over-the-counter creams.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
How can I tell if I have low or high progesterone?
The only definitive way to know is through hormone testing via blood tests or at-home urine tests that measure progesterone metabolites. However, symptom patterns can provide clues: anxiety and irregular periods suggest low progesterone, while bloating and extreme fatigue suggest high progesterone.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
When during my cycle should I test progesterone levels?
Test progesterone levels during the luteal phase, typically 7 days after ovulation or around day 21 of a 28-day cycle. This is when progesterone should be at its peak, making it easier to identify if levels are too low or too high.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the main differences between low and high progesterone symptoms?
Low progesterone typically causes irregular or heavy periods, anxiety, hot flashes, and sleep issues. High progesterone causes bloating, fatigue, intense breast tenderness, and depression-like mood changes. Low progesterone symptoms persist throughout your cycle, while high progesterone symptoms are most intense during the luteal phase.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
Can you have symptoms of both low and high progesterone?
Some symptoms like breast tenderness and mood changes can occur with both low and high progesterone, making it confusing. However, the timing, intensity, and accompanying symptoms differ. Hormone testing is the best way to determine which imbalance you're experiencing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can stress affect 10 DPO symptoms?
Yes, stress can worsen or mimic 10 DPO symptoms. Stress increases cortisol, which can cause cramping, fatigue, and mood changes similar to both PMS and early pregnancy. During the two-week wait, try stress-reduction techniques like gentle exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is it better to test at 10 DPO or wait?
It's better to wait until 12–14 DPO for more accurate results. Testing at 10 DPO often leads to false negatives because hCG levels may still be too low. If you absolutely can't wait, use a sensitive early detection test with first morning urine, and be prepared to retest in 2–3 days if negative.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does implantation bleeding look like at 10 DPO?
Implantation bleeding at 10 DPO is typically light pink or brown, much lighter than a period, and lasts 1–2 days. It's often just spotting when you wipe or a few drops on a panty liner. However, only 15–20% of pregnant women experience implantation bleeding—most don't have any bleeding at all.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Why am I cramping at 10 DPO?
Cramping at 10 DPO can be caused by elevated progesterone (whether you're pregnant or not), implantation (if you're pregnant), or premenstrual cramping. Unfortunately, cramping alone can't tell you if you're pregnant since progesterone causes similar symptoms in both scenarios.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What are the chances of a BFP at 10 DPO?
If you're pregnant, you have about a 50–60% chance of getting a positive test at 10 DPO. This means there's a 40–50% chance of a false negative even if you conceived. Chances improve significantly by 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What DPO is most accurate for pregnancy testing?
14 DPO (the day of your missed period) is the most accurate time to test, with 99% accuracy. 12 DPO offers 80–90% accuracy. 10 DPO has only 50–60% accuracy. For best results, wait as long as you can—ideally until 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is 10 DPO too early to test?
10 DPO is considered early for pregnancy testing. While some women get positives at 10 DPO, accuracy is only 50–60% if you're pregnant. For best results, wait until 12 DPO (80–90% accuracy) or 14 DPO/missed period (99% accuracy).
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you have implantation at 10 DPO?
Yes, implantation can still occur at 10 DPO, though 84% of women have already implanted by this point. Late implantation at 10–12 DPO is normal. If implantation happens at 10 DPO, you won't get a positive pregnancy test for another 2–3 days.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does a negative test at 10 DPO mean?
A negative test at 10 DPO does not mean you're not pregnant. It's very common to get negatives at 10 DPO even if you conceived. Your hCG levels may still be too low, or implantation may have occurred later. Wait until 12–14 DPO to retest for more accurate results.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you get a positive pregnancy test at 10 DPO?
Yes, but only about 50–60% of pregnant women will get a positive at 10 DPO. The other 40–50% have hCG levels that are still too low to detect. If you test negative at 10 DPO, wait 2–3 days and test again.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Can high progesterone cause weight gain?
Yes, elevated progesterone can cause temporary weight gain through water retention and bloating. This is a normal part of the luteal phase and early pregnancy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Does stress affect estrogen levels?
Yes, chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can suppress estrogen production and disrupt hormonal balance. Stress reduction through meditation, yoga, adequate sleep, and self-care practices helps maintain optimal estrogen levels.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
When should I consider medical treatment for low estrogen?
Consider medical intervention if natural methods don't improve symptoms after 3 months, if symptoms severely impact quality of life, if you're experiencing early menopause (before 40), or if you have fertility concerns. Hormone replacement therapy may be appropriate in these cases.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What are the signs that my estrogen is increasing?
Signs of rising estrogen include more regular menstrual cycles, reduced hot flashes, improved vaginal lubrication, better mood stability, increased energy, and improved skin elasticity. You may also notice reduced symptoms that originally indicated low estrogen.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Can exercise increase estrogen levels?
Yes, moderate exercise stimulates estrogen release and helps maintain hormonal balance. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate cardio weekly plus strength training twice per week. However, excessive exercise can actually lower estrogen, so balance is key.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
How long does it take to increase estrogen naturally?
With consistent dietary and lifestyle changes, you may notice improvements in symptoms within 4-8 weeks. However, significant hormonal changes typically take 2-3 months. Tracking your cycle and symptoms can help you monitor progress.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What foods increase estrogen levels naturally?
Foods high in phytoestrogens can help increase estrogen naturally. The best options include flax seeds (high in lignans), soy products (tofu, tempeh, edamame), lentils, chickpeas, whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice), and garlic. These plant compounds mimic estrogen's effects in the body.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What helps relieve hot flashes quickly?
Cool environments, layered clothing, herbal teas, and medical treatments like gabapentin or HRT may help—depending on severity. Lifestyle changes like reducing caffeine and alcohol can also provide relief.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Are there tests to confirm perimenopause?
Yes. Tests measuring estradiol, LH, and FSH levels can indicate hormonal shifts—but diagnosis is often symptom-based since hormone levels fluctuate widely during perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
How do I know it's perimenopause and not something else?
A doctor may recommend hormone testing (like LH, E3G, and PdG) and track symptom timing. Diagnosis is often based on symptoms combined with age and menstrual pattern changes.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What's the earliest age perimenopause can start?
Some women begin experiencing symptoms as early as their mid-30s, though perimenopause typically starts between ages 38-45.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Does perimenopause affect mental clarity?
Yes. Brain fog and difficulty concentrating are common during hormone fluctuations in perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What happens after the last sign of perimenopause?
After your final period, you enter postmenopause. You'll need 12 consecutive months without a period to confirm menopause. Many symptoms gradually improve, though some like vaginal dryness may persist without treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
When do perimenopause symptoms finally stop?
Some symptoms like brain fog improve after menopause, while others like hot flashes may continue for up to 10 years post-menopause. Vaginal symptoms often persist or worsen without treatment. Each person's timeline is different.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Is high progesterone a sign of pregnancy?
Yes, high progesterone is one of the earliest indicators of pregnancy. Progesterone levels rise significantly after conception to support the developing embryo and reach their peak during the third trimester.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Can you still get pregnant in late perimenopause?
Yes, you can still get pregnant during perimenopause as long as you're having periods, even if they're infrequent. Continue using birth control until you've gone 12 consecutive months without a period and have officially reached menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Do symptoms get worse before perimenopause ends?
Yes, most perimenopause symptoms intensify in the final 1-2 years before menopause. Hot flashes peak around your final period, vaginal symptoms worsen, and mood changes increase. However, brain fog typically improves in late perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
How long does late perimenopause last?
Late perimenopause typically lasts 1-3 years before your final period. However, the exact duration varies significantly from person to person. You've reached menopause after 12 consecutive months without a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the symptoms of high progesterone?
High progesterone symptoms include fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, weight gain, anxiety, depression, headaches, and food cravings. During pregnancy, you may also experience increased nipple sensitivity and muscle aches.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What are the first signs that perimenopause is ending?
The earliest signs include longer gaps between periods (60+ days), intensifying hot flashes that peak around your final period, and worsening vaginal dryness. These symptoms typically increase in late perimenopause before you reach official menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
When should I be concerned about high progesterone?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience high progesterone symptoms outside your luteal phase when not pregnant, or if symptoms include severe pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or rapid weight gain while on hormone therapy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
How do you test progesterone levels?
Progesterone can be measured through blood tests at your doctor's office or at-home urine tests that measure PdG (a progesterone metabolite). Testing is typically done during the luteal phase, about 7 days after ovulation.

About the Oova Blog:
‍Our content is developed with a commitment to high editorial standards and reliability. We prioritize referencing reputable sources and sharing where our insights come from. The Oova Blog is intended for informational purposes only and is never a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making any health decisions.

Posts

Latest Articles

Progesterone Supplementation: Complete Guide to Pills, Suppositories & Creams
Hormones
Oct 23, 2025

Progesterone Supplementation: Complete Guide to Pills, Suppositories & Creams

Compare progesterone pills, suppositories, and creams. Learn about bioidentical options, effectiveness, side effects, and dosing for fertility and perimenopause. Written by a registered nurse.

Foods to Avoid During Perimenopause (And What to Eat Instead)
Perimenopause
Oct 23, 2025

Foods to Avoid During Perimenopause (And What to Eat Instead)

If you've noticed certain foods make your perimenopause symptoms worse, you're not imagining it. Learn which foods trigger hot flashes, worsen weight gain, disrupt sleep, and increase anxiety plus discover what to eat instead for symptom relief.

Perimenopause Belly Fat: Why It Happens & How to Lose It
Perimenopause
Oct 23, 2025

Perimenopause Belly Fat: Why It Happens & How to Lose It

If you've noticed your weight shifting to your stomach during perimenopause, you're not alone. Learn why perimenopause belly fat happens, how hormones affect fat distribution, and science-backed strategies that actually work to lose menopause belly.