# In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a method used to help couples who are experiencing infertility. Describe the process of IVF and explain how it helps couples who are unable to conceive naturally.

> WJEC A-Level Biology (Wales) — 4.4 Application of reproduction and genetics · Describe and Explain · 5 marks

> Infertility is defined as the inability to reproduce after 12 months or more of unprotected sex. IVF is one medical intervention available to such couples.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. IVF involves fertilisation of an egg using sperm outside of the body
2. Eggs are collected / stimulated from the ovaries of the female
3. The egg and sperm are combined / mixed in laboratory conditions to allow fertilisation
4. The fertilised egg develops into an embryo which is then implanted into the uterus
5. IVF helps infertile couples by allowing fertilisation to occur even when natural conception is not possible, for example due to blocked fallopian tubes or low sperm count

## Key terms

- [in vitro fertilisation (IVF)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/in-vitro-fertilisation-ivf)
- [infertility](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/infertility)
- [fertilisation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/fertilisation)

## Related

- [Revision notes for WJEC A-Level Biology (Wales)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe and Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/in-vitro-fertilisation-ivf-is-a-1fc9ee69) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.