More and more families are choosing to undergo IVF treatment in the United States, but one of the most frequently asked questions is:
“How long does the entire process take? How many days do I need to stay in the U.S.? Can I split it into multiple trips?”
This article breaks down the complete IVF journey timeline, from preparation to pregnancy test, to help you plan your time, work, and finances wisely.
1. Full IVF Process Overview: Total Duration ≈ 2–4 Months (Split Travel Possible)
| Stage | Can Be Done in Home Country? | Time Estimate | Requires U.S. Visit? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-evaluation & testing | ✅ Yes | 1–3 weeks | ❌ No |
| Visa application & clinic booking | ✅ Yes | 2–6 weeks | ❌ No |
| First trip: Stimulation & Egg Retrieval | ❌ No | 2–3 weeks | ✅ Yes |
| Embryo culture + PGT testing | ❌ No | 2–3 weeks | ✅ (can stay or return) |
| Embryo freezing & waiting period | ✅ Yes (wait at home) | 1–2 months | ❌ No |
| Second trip: Embryo Transfer | ❌ No | 7–10 days | ✅ Yes |
| Pregnancy test (HCG) | ✅ Yes (local blood test) | 9–12 days post-transfer | ❌ No |
2. Step-by-Step Timeline Breakdown
✅ Step 1: Preparation at Home (1–2 Months)
- AMH, hormone panel, pelvic ultrasound, semen analysis, etc.
- Apply for U.S. B-2 visa (medical/tourism)
- Remote video consultation with your chosen U.S. fertility doctor
- Submit medical history, translated reports, and get a preliminary treatment plan
Tip: Start visa and testing prep 3 months in advance for smoother scheduling.
✅ Step 2: First U.S. Trip – Ovarian Stimulation & Egg Retrieval (15–20 Days)
| Day | Process |
|---|---|
| Day 1–2 | In-person consult, baseline bloodwork + ultrasound |
| Day 3–12 | Hormonal injections + follicle monitoring |
| Day 13–15 | Trigger shot + egg retrieval scheduled |
| Day 15–20 | Embryo culture, PGT-A biopsy & embryo freezing |
If doing PGT-A testing, allow 7–10 extra days for results.
✅ Step 3: Waiting Period at Home (Optional)
- After egg retrieval and embryo freezing, patients can return home to rest
- Wait 4–8 weeks before scheduling embryo transfer
- Doctor will monitor remotely and guide medication for uterine preparation
✅ Step 4: Second U.S. Trip – Embryo Transfer (7–10 Days)
| Day | Process |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival + check uterine lining thickness |
| Day 2–5 | Continue medication, schedule transfer date |
| Day 6–7 | Embryo transfer + progesterone support |
| Day 8–10 | Rest or return home (travel permitted post-transfer) |
✅ Step 5: Pregnancy Testing
- 9–12 days after transfer, do an HCG blood test locally to confirm pregnancy
- If positive, continue with medication and remote follow-up ultrasounds
- If unsuccessful, you may prepare for another transfer cycle with frozen embryos
3. IVF Timeline Examples by Scenario
| Treatment Style | Trips to U.S. | Total Time Needed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-trip (stimulation + transfer) | 1 trip | 30–40 consecutive days | Those with long leave & stable schedule |
| Two trips (recommended) | 2 trips | ~15–20 days each | Busy professionals or cautious planners |
| Multi-cycle package (e.g. 3 transfers) | 2–3 trips | 3–6 months total | Older patients or repeat IVF cases |
4. Final Thoughts: Plan Early, Succeed Smoothly
IVF in the U.S. is a step-by-step scientific process, not a quick fix.
Understanding the time commitment and preparing accordingly (visa, finances, time off) can significantly improve your chances of success and reduce stress.
Whether you opt for a single extended trip or split the treatment into two visits, choosing a reputable clinic and following a smart timeline brings you one step closer to your dream of parenthood.