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? If yes, you have likely come across a lot of information, some of it true, some of it not. Misconceptions about IVF can create confusion or even hesitation for those exploring fertility options. A lot of these myths come from outdated information, cultural stigmas, or a lack of clear education about the procedure. It's important to address these myths to provide you with accurate information.
By separating fact from fiction, you will be able to approach IVF treatment with much more confidence. It's a safe and proven method that helps people with infertility grow their families.
What is IVF?
In vitro fertilisation, commonly known as IVF, is a medical procedure used to help you conceive a child if you’re facing challenges with infertility. It involves retrieving mature eggs from your ovaries and fertilising them with sperm in a laboratory setting. Once fertilisation occurs, the embryo is carefully monitored for a few days. After this, it is transferred into your uterus, where it can implant and develop into a pregnancy.IVF is often recommended for conditions like blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, low sperm count, and other infertility issues. The process requires hormonal medications to stimulate egg production, and it’s done under close medical supervision to maximise your chances of success. Each IVF cycle takes about 4 to 6 weeks, and sometimes multiple cycles are needed.
Myths Vs Facts About IVF
Some common myths and the facts that debunk them are:Myth: IVF is only effective for female infertility.
IVF is not limited to treating female infertility. It is a treatment that can address a wide range of fertility issues in individuals of all genders. IVF is an effective solution for male infertility factors, including low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm morphology.In cases of male infertility, techniques such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can be used during IVF. In this process, a single sperm is injected directly into an egg to help with fertilisation.
Myth: IVF always results in twins or more.
The belief that IVF always results in multiple babies, like twins or triplets, is a common misconception. IVF can increase the possibility of multiple pregnancies if various embryos are transferred.In the past, transferring multiple embryos to the uterus was common to improve success rates, which led to higher rates of twins or more. However, advancements in technology like preimplantation genetic testing and freezing techniques allow doctors to transfer just one healthy embryo in many cases. This practice is called elective single embryo transfer (eSET), which helps reduce the chances of multiple pregnancies.
Myth: IVF leads to birth defects
The concern that IVF causes birth defects is a common myth, but it is not true. Babies conceived through this treatment have a slightly higher risk of certain birth defects than babies conceived naturally, but this risk is small and not necessarily caused by the IVF process itself. Factors like the underlying infertility issues in parents or maternal age play a larger role in this increased risk than the IVF procedure. A vast majority of IVF babies are born healthy.Myth: IVF is too expensive
The average cost of IVF in India ranges from Rs 90,000 to Rs 1,50,000. Although it can be a costly procedure, it is more affordable compared to many other countries. Many clinics or hospitals offer ways to make it more affordable. Options like instalment plans (EMIs) can help manage the expense.It’s important to choose a clinic with a strong success record, as clinics with higher success rates require fewer IVF cycles to achieve pregnancy. This will make the process more cost-effective in the long run.
Myth: IVF can be performed at any age
The idea that you can pursue IVF at any age is a misconception, as age significantly impacts the success of this treatment. Individuals under the age of 35 generally have higher IVF success rates due to better egg quality. The success rates decline gradually after 35 and more sharply after 40. This is because older eggs are more likely to have chromosomal abnormalities, reducing the chances of a healthy embryo.Your doctor will evaluate your ovarian reserve and overall health to decide if IVF is a suitable option for you.
Myth: IVF will permanently harm your ovarian reserve
The myth that IVF harms your ovarian reserve is not accurate. In reality, it does not deplete your egg supply. Each menstrual cycle, your body naturally recruits a group of eggs, most of which would typically be reabsorbed if not used. IVF treatments stimulate these naturally selected eggs to mature, allowing for their retrieval and potential fertilisation. This process utilises eggs that would otherwise not be used, leaving your overall ovarian reserve unaffected.Myth: IVF requires hospitalisation
The myth that IVF requires hospitalisation and strict bed rest during pregnancy is not true. IVF is primarily an outpatient procedure, meaning you don’t need to stay in a hospital.Egg retrieval is a minor procedure done under sedation, and you can go home the same day. Embryo transfer is a quick, non-invasive procedure that also doesn’t require hospitalisation. After conception, the amount of rest needed by an IVF pregnant individual is the same as that of someone with a naturally conceived pregnancy.
Myth: IVF is a very painful process
The myth that IVF is inherently painful is an exaggeration. The process involves manageable discomfort rather than severe pain for most individuals. IVF is designed to be well-tolerated with proper medical support. Your doctor can provide guidance and medications to ease any discomfort, making the process far less painful than commonly feared.Myth: IVF pregnancies are more likely to have complications and require a caesarean delivery
It's important to remember that an IVF pregnancy is no different from a natural one. The need for a caesarean may arise due to specific complications, not because of the IVF process itself. Babies conceived through IVF hold a special place in parents’ hearts due to the long journey with infertility. As a result, many couples opt for a planned caesarean to ensure a safe delivery.Myth: A failed IVF cycle means you cannot conceive again
The myth that a failed IVF cycle means you cannot conceive again is not true. A single unsuccessful cycle does not determine your ability to conceive in the future. Many factors can affect the success of an IVF cycle, such as embryo quality, uterine conditions, or hormonal balance. But these can often be adjusted in subsequent cycles.Your doctor may analyse the failed cycle to refine your treatment plan. Many parents who experience a failed IVF cycle go on to achieve pregnancy in later cycles. One failure does not mean future attempts will also fail. Persistence and medical guidance can lead to successful outcomes for many couples.
IVF is a safe procedure for treating infertility, but it's important to separate facts from myths. Dispelling common misconceptions about it will help you make informed decisions about your fertility treatment. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalised advice and guidance through the IVF process. This treatment brings hope to many, and with the right knowledge, it can lead to successful pregnancy outcomes.
FAQs on Debunking Common Myths on IVF
- Does IVF always result in twins or multiple pregnancies?
No, IVF doesn’t always result in multiple pregnancies. Advances in technology, like elective single embryo transfer (eSET), allow doctors to transfer a single healthy embryo. This reduces the risk of multiple pregnancies. - Does IVF deplete your ovarian reserve?
No, it does not deplete your ovarian reserve. It stimulates your body to mature and retrieve eggs that would otherwise not be used. The process doesn’t affect your overall egg supply.
