Frequently Asked Questions

IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) is an Assisted Reproductive Technology where eggs are retrieved from the woman's ovaries and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory setting. The resulting embryos are then carefully monitored and one or more are transferred into the uterus.

The full IVF process involves these key stages:

• Ovarian stimulation with hormonal injections (8–14 days)
• Egg retrieval under sedation (a minor procedure)
• Laboratory fertilisation and embryo culture (3–5 days)
• Embryo transfer into the uterus (a simple, painless procedure)
• Pregnancy test approximately 14 days after transfer

IVF success rates depend on several factors including the woman's age, egg quality, sperm parameters, uterine health, and the cause of infertility. At Vivaa Hospitals, with over 2,500 IUI and IVF cycles guided, our outcomes are highly encouraging.

Generally, success rates are:

• Under 35 years: 50–70% per cycle
• 35–37 years: 40–50% per cycle
• 38–42 years: 20–40% per cycle
• Over 40 years: 10–20% per cycle (may benefit from donor eggs)

IVF costs in Bangalore typically range from ₹1.2 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh per cycle, depending on medications, the number of embryos, and whether additional procedures like ICSI, PGT, or frozen embryo transfer are required.

At Vivaa Hospitals, we believe quality fertility care should be transparent and affordable. Our pricing includes:

• Pre-IVF evaluation and hormone tests
• Ovarian stimulation monitoring scans
• Egg retrieval procedure charges
• Laboratory fertilisation and embryo culture
• Embryo transfer procedure

Most women find IVF manageable rather than severely painful. The daily hormonal injections cause mild discomfort at the injection site. As the follicles grow, some women experience bloating, heaviness, or mild pelvic pressure.

The egg retrieval is done under IV sedation, so you are comfortable throughout. You may feel mild cramping for a day or two afterward. The embryo transfer is usually pain-free — similar to a routine gynaecological examination.

Common side effects to expect:

• Mild bloating and pelvic fullness during stimulation
• Mood changes due to hormonal medication
• Breast tenderness and fatigue
• Light spotting after embryo transfer

There is no definitive answer — every couple's journey is different. Many couples conceive in their first cycle; others may need two or three. Statistically, the cumulative success rate increases significantly over 3 cycles.

If your first cycle doesn't succeed, Dr. Devikarani will review what happened, adjust the stimulation protocol if needed, and plan a frozen embryo transfer cycle if there are frozen embryos available — which is often less expensive and equally effective.

IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) is a simpler, less invasive procedure where washed, concentrated sperm is directly placed inside the uterus around the time of ovulation. It is the first-line treatment for mild infertility.

IVF is more complex, involves egg retrieval and lab fertilisation, and is recommended for more significant fertility challenges.

IUI may be right for you if:

• Mild male factor infertility (low count or motility)
• Unexplained infertility
• Ovulatory disorders responsive to medication
• Cervical factor infertility

IVF is recommended when tubes are blocked, severe male factor exists, IUI has failed, or age/time is a concern.

IVF can be attempted at any age, but success rates decline significantly after 35 and more steeply after 40 due to declining egg quality. In India, the ART (Regulation) Act 2021 allows IVF for women up to age 50 using their own eggs, and beyond that with donor eggs.

Women over 40 still have meaningful chances with their own eggs, especially if egg reserve (AMH, AFC) is reasonable. Donor egg IVF is a highly effective option for those with poor egg quality, with success rates similar to younger women.

No — not always. Multiple pregnancies happen when more than one embryo is transferred. The standard of care today strongly recommends single embryo transfer (SET) whenever a good-quality embryo is available, which significantly reduces the risk of twins.

Modern IVF labs can culture embryos to the blastocyst stage (Day 5), making it possible to identify the single best embryo for transfer — improving success rates while avoiding the risks associated with twin pregnancies (preterm birth, low birth weight, complications).

After an IVF cycle, extra good-quality embryos can be frozen (vitrified) and stored safely for future use. A Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) involves thawing one of these embryos and transferring it in a subsequent cycle.

FET is used when:

• The first fresh transfer didn't result in pregnancy
• The uterus was not ready for transfer in the fresh cycle
• OHSS risk was high and fresh transfer was unsafe
• Couples want another baby after a successful first IVF baby

FET cycles are simpler, less costly, and have excellent success rates — often comparable or better than fresh transfers.

Yes — the vast majority of IVF babies are completely healthy and develop normally. Decades of research and millions of IVF babies worldwide confirm that IVF babies have the same overall health outcomes as naturally conceived babies.

The slight increase in certain risks seen in some older studies is largely attributed to the higher rate of multiple pregnancies (twins/triplets) in IVF, rather than the IVF process itself. With modern single embryo transfer, this risk is greatly reduced.

Ideally, you should see your doctor as soon as you get a positive pregnancy test — typically at 6–8 weeks of pregnancy. Early visits allow us to confirm the pregnancy is intrauterine (inside the uterus), check the heartbeat, assess your health, and start supplements like folic acid and iron.

Yes — we offer epidural analgesia (painless delivery) at Vivaa Hospitals. Epidural is a safe, widely used method of pain relief during labour where a small amount of anaesthetic is delivered through a thin catheter placed in your lower back.

It is completely safe for your baby and does not affect the baby's health. It allows you to remain alert and comfortable throughout labour, and does not necessarily slow down or complicate delivery when administered at the right time by an experienced team.

At Vivaa Hospitals, we strongly advocate for normal delivery whenever it is clinically safe to do so. Dr. Devikarani is known for successfully achieving normal deliveries in cases where other hospitals had advised C-sections.

A C-section is recommended only when medically necessary, such as:

• Foetal distress or abnormal heart rate patterns
• Placenta previa (placenta blocking the birth canal)
• Baby in a position that prevents vaginal birth
• Failure of labour to progress despite intervention
• Certain maternal health conditions

A pregnancy is considered high-risk when there is an increased chance of complications for the mother, baby, or both. Common causes include gestational diabetes, hypertension (pre-eclampsia), twin pregnancies, thyroid disorders, IUGR, and previous C-sections.

Management includes more frequent antenatal visits, additional ultrasounds and Doppler studies, close foetal monitoring, and timely planned delivery when indicated. Dr. Devikarani has extensive expertise in high-risk obstetrics with excellent outcomes.

Standard pregnancy scans at Vivaa Hospitals:

• 6–8 weeks: Viability scan — confirms pregnancy and heartbeat
• 11–13 weeks: NT (Nuchal Translucency) scan — Down syndrome screening
• 18–22 weeks: Anomaly scan (Level 2) — detailed structural check of the baby
• 28–32 weeks: Growth scan and Doppler — checks baby's growth and blood flow
• 36–40 weeks: Final growth and position scan before delivery

Additional scans may be ordered if there are specific concerns or it is a high-risk pregnancy.

Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar that develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after delivery. It occurs when pregnancy hormones interfere with insulin function. It affects about 10–15% of pregnancies in India.

Treatment involves dietary modifications, regular blood sugar monitoring, and sometimes insulin injections. With good control, most women with gestational diabetes go on to have healthy pregnancies and normal deliveries. Your baby's growth will be monitored more closely.

Good preparation improves your chances of a successful normal delivery. We recommend:

• Regular antenatal visits and staying up to date on scans
• Staying active with approved exercises (walking, pregnancy yoga)
• Eating well — balanced diet with adequate iron and calcium
• Attending childbirth education / Lamaze classes
• Learning breathing and relaxation techniques
• Discussing your birth preferences with Dr. Devikarani in advance
• Having a support person present during labour

After delivery, both mother and baby receive dedicated postnatal care at Vivaa Hospitals, including:

• Monitoring of vitals, wound healing (for C-section or episiotomy)
• Breastfeeding support and lactation counselling
• Newborn health checks and vaccinations
• Postnatal depression screening
• Dietary and recovery guidance before discharge
• Follow-up appointment at 6 weeks post-delivery

Yes — VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Caesarean) is possible and safe for many women when evaluated carefully. Dr. Devikarani will assess your previous C-section reason, uterine scar thickness, baby's size, position, and other factors to determine if VBAC is appropriate.

VBAC success rates are around 60–80% in carefully selected candidates. The key is a specialist team, continuous foetal monitoring during labour, and an OT on standby — all available at Vivaa Hospitals.

The general guideline is:

• Under 35 years: See a specialist after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse without conception
• 35–37 years: After 6 months of trying
• Over 37 years: Seek evaluation immediately — time is important

You should seek help sooner if you have irregular periods, known PCOS, endometriosis, a history of pelvic surgery, or if your male partner has known sperm issues.

For the female partner:

• Hormone tests: FSH, LH, AMH, prolactin, thyroid
• Pelvic ultrasound (antral follicle count, uterus check)
• HSG (Hysterosalpingography) — checks if tubes are open
• Diagnostic laparoscopy if endometriosis is suspected

For the male partner:

• Semen analysis (count, motility, morphology)
• Hormonal tests if count is very low
• Scrotal ultrasound if needed

AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) is a blood test that reflects your ovarian reserve — essentially, how many eggs you have remaining. It is one of the most reliable markers of reproductive potential.

• Normal AMH (1.0–3.5 ng/mL): Good ovarian reserve
• Low AMH (under 1.0): Diminished ovarian reserve — time-sensitive, consider treatment sooner
• High AMH (above 3.5): May indicate PCOS

A low AMH does not mean you cannot conceive — but it does mean your fertility window may be shorter, making earlier intervention important.

Yes — many women with PCOS do conceive naturally, especially when PCOS is well managed. PCOS causes irregular or absent ovulation, which makes timing conception difficult. However, with the right treatment, ovulation can be induced.

First-line approach:

• Lifestyle changes — weight loss of even 5–10% can restore ovulation in overweight women with PCOS
• Ovulation induction with tablets (Letrozole or Clomiphene)
• If tablets don't work, injectable gonadotropins with IUI
• IVF if simpler methods are unsuccessful

Blocked tubes prevent sperm from reaching the egg naturally. Options depend on where and how severely the tubes are blocked:

• Proximal (near-uterus) block: Sometimes treatable with a procedure called tubal cannulation
• Distal block (near ovary): Laparoscopic tuboplasty may help in selected cases
• IVF: Bypasses the tubes entirely and is the most effective solution for tubal factor infertility

If you have hydrosalpinx (fluid-filled blocked tube), removal of the affected tube before IVF significantly improves IVF success rates.

Ovulation induction (OI) uses medications to stimulate the ovaries to develop and release an egg in women who don't ovulate regularly. It is commonly used for women with PCOS, irregular cycles, or unexplained infertility.

Medications used:

• Letrozole (first choice for PCOS)
• Clomiphene Citrate
• Gonadotropin injections (when tablets are insufficient)

Follicular monitoring with serial ultrasounds tracks follicle growth, and a trigger injection is given at the right time to release the egg. Timed intercourse or IUI is then recommended.

Recurrent pregnancy loss (3 or more miscarriages) needs thorough investigation. Common causes include:

• Chromosomal abnormalities (most common cause)
• Uterine structural problems (fibroids, polyps, septum)
• Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) — an immune condition
• Thyroid disorders or hormonal imbalances
• Sperm DNA fragmentation

At Vivaa Hospitals, we conduct a comprehensive panel of investigations and develop a personalised treatment plan — which may include surgical correction, blood thinners, hormonal support, or PGT (genetic testing of embryos in IVF).

A normal menstrual cycle ranges from 21 to 35 days. Anything outside this range, or significant variation in cycle length or flow, is considered irregular. Common causes include:

• PCOS (most common cause in reproductive age)
• Thyroid disorders (both hypo and hyperthyroidism)
• Stress and significant weight changes
• Uterine fibroids or polyps
• Perimenopause (approaching menopause)
• Hormonal imbalances (prolactin, androgens)

You should seek evaluation if periods are consistently absent, very heavy, very painful, or associated with other symptoms like unusual hair growth or skin changes.

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or on the uterus. They are extremely common — affecting up to 70% of women at some point in their lives. Most fibroids cause no symptoms and require no treatment.

Surgery (myomectomy) is considered when fibroids cause:

• Heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding causing anaemia
• Significant pelvic pain or pressure
• Urinary or bowel symptoms from compression
• Interference with fertility or pregnancy

Dr. Devikarani performs laparoscopic myomectomy — a minimally invasive approach with faster recovery and minimal scarring.

Not necessarily. Most ovarian cysts are functional (form as part of the normal menstrual cycle) and resolve on their own within 1–3 months without treatment. They are very common and usually found incidentally on scans.

Cysts that require monitoring or treatment include those that are:

• Large (over 5–6 cm) or growing
• Persistent beyond 3 cycles
• Causing pain, torsion risk, or other symptoms
• Appearing suspicious in features (solid components, irregular)
• Endometriomas (chocolate cysts from endometriosis)

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus — commonly on the ovaries, tubes, and pelvic lining. It affects approximately 10% of women of reproductive age and is a leading cause of painful periods and infertility.

Key symptoms: severe period pain, pain during intercourse, chronic pelvic pain, and difficulty conceiving.

Treatment options:

• Pain management with anti-inflammatory medications and hormonal therapy
• Laparoscopic surgery to remove endometriotic deposits and cysts
• Fertility treatment (IVF) if conception is affected

Laparoscopy (keyhole surgery) is a minimally invasive surgical technique using a camera and small instruments inserted through tiny incisions (5–10mm) in the abdomen. It allows both diagnosis and treatment of many gynaecological conditions.

Advantages over open surgery:

• Smaller scars and less pain
• Shorter hospital stay (often 1 day)
• Faster return to normal activity (5–10 days for minor, 2–4 weeks for complex procedures)
• Lower infection risk

Dr. Devikarani is a trained FMAS (Fellow in Minimal Access Surgery) with 1,000+ laparoscopic procedures performed.

A Pap smear (Pap test or cervical smear) is a simple, quick screening test where cells from the cervix are collected and examined for any abnormal changes that could indicate pre-cancer or cervical cancer.

Screening recommendations:

• Start screening at age 21 (or earlier if sexually active)
• Ages 21–29: Pap smear every 3 years
• Ages 30–65: Pap smear + HPV test every 5 years (co-test)

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when detected early. Please do not skip this screening.

Menopause — the permanent end of menstruation — typically occurs between ages 45 and 55, with the average being 51 in Indian women. Menopause occurring before age 40 is called premature menopause (POI) and requires special attention.

Common signs and symptoms:

• Irregular or absent periods (perimenopause)
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Sleep disturbances and fatigue
• Mood changes, anxiety, or depression
• Vaginal dryness and discomfort
• Bone loss (osteoporosis risk increases)

We offer comprehensive menopause management including Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), non-hormonal options, and bone health assessment at Vivaa Hospitals.

A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus. It may be recommended for severe fibroids, uterine prolapse, endometriosis, abnormal bleeding unresponsive to other treatments, or gynaecological cancers.

Types of hysterectomy:

• Total hysterectomy: Uterus and cervix removed
• Subtotal: Only uterus removed (cervix retained)
• Radical: For gynaecological cancers

At Vivaa Hospitals, we perform laparoscopic hysterectomies whenever feasible — smaller scars, less pain, and hospital stay of just 2–3 days vs 5–7 days for open surgery. After hysterectomy, you will no longer have periods or be able to conceive.

Breastfeeding should ideally begin within the first hour after birth — this is called "early initiation." The first milk (colostrum) is rich in antibodies and provides essential protection for your newborn.

Benefits of early breastfeeding:

• Helps the baby's gut and immune system develop
• Stimulates milk production for the mother
• Promotes bonding between mother and baby
• Helps the uterus contract and reduces postpartum bleeding

Our nursing team and lactation counsellor will guide and support you through breastfeeding from the very first feed.

Neonatal jaundice — yellowing of the baby's skin and eyes — is very common, affecting up to 60% of full-term newborns in the first week of life. Most cases are "physiological" (normal) and resolve on their own within 1–2 weeks with adequate feeding.

Severe or prolonged jaundice needs treatment, typically phototherapy (blue light therapy), which is safe and highly effective. Our NICU team monitors bilirubin levels and initiates treatment promptly when needed.

Your baby's vaccination schedule begins at birth. The standard Indian Immunization Programme includes:

• At birth: BCG (TB), Hepatitis B (1st dose), OPV (0th dose)
• 6 weeks: DPT, Polio, Hib, Hepatitis B (2nd dose), Rotavirus, PCV
• 10 weeks: DPT, Polio, Hib, Rotavirus booster
• 14 weeks: DPT, Polio, Hib, Rotavirus, PCV booster
• 6 months: Hepatitis B (3rd dose), Influenza (1st)
• 9 months: MMR (1st dose), Varicella, Typhoid

Our paediatrician will provide you with a complete, personalised vaccination card and reminder schedule.

Feeling emotional, tearful, or anxious in the first few days after delivery is extremely common — this is called "baby blues" and affects up to 80% of new mothers. It is caused by the dramatic hormonal shift after delivery and usually resolves within 1–2 weeks.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is more serious and persistent, involving prolonged low mood, inability to bond with the baby, intense anxiety, or feeling unable to cope. It affects about 10–15% of new mothers and needs professional support.

Most women can resume light activities (gentle walking) within a few days of delivery. The standard medical guideline is to wait at least 6 weeks before resuming intercourse — this allows the uterus and any perineal or C-section wound to heal adequately.

At your 6-week postnatal check-up, Dr. Devikarani will assess your recovery and advise on safe resumption of activities. Do not rush — every woman's healing timeline is different.

Contraception is also discussed at this visit, as ovulation can return quickly — especially if you are not exclusively breastfeeding.

You can book an appointment at Vivaa Hospitals in several ways:

• Online: Fill the appointment form on our website
• Phone: Call +91 9019749400 or 080-42127000
• WhatsApp: Message us at +91 9019749400
• Walk-in: Visit us directly during OPD hours — walk-ins always welcome

OPD Hours: Monday–Saturday 9AM–10PM | Sunday 10AM–2PM
Emergency: 24/7

At Vivaa Hospitals, we pride ourselves on transparent, affordable pricing with no hidden charges. Consultation fees vary by department and type of visit.

Please contact us directly by phone or WhatsApp for the most current fee information. Our team is happy to give you a clear picture before your visit so there are no surprises.

Yes — Vivaa Hospitals is empanelled with several major insurance providers and accepts cashless treatment for eligible procedures. Please carry your insurance card and policy details when you visit, and our billing team will assist with pre-authorisation and claims.

Note: Fertility treatments such as IVF and IUI are generally not covered by standard health insurance in India. Please verify with your insurer before proceeding.