10 Common Myths About IVF Every Woman Should Know
August 26, 2024
IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) has been a ray of hope for numerous couples with fertility issues. Still, IVF treatment myths create unwanted fear and confusion. Most women delay IVF treatment due to incorrect information.
Apollo Fertility ensures that we provide you with the proper information to make an informed decision about your fertility treatment. So, read on as we dispel ten popular IVF treatment myths and give you the facts you should know.
Top 10 Myths About IVF Treatment
In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) has helped over 8 million babies come into the world, yet many people still believe things about it that aren’t true. These myths can cause confusion or fear and may even stop couples from seeking help. Let’s clear up these IVF treatment myths:
Myth 1: IVF Always Leads to Multiple Births
A common misconception is that IVF will always result in twins or triplets. Although multiple pregnancies used to be prevalent in the initial years of IVF, thanks to modern technology, such instances have drastically declined.
The current practice of reproductive medicine recommends Elective Single Embryo Transfer (eSET) as a procedure for transferring one or two embryos into the uterus in order to reduce multiple pregnancies while preserving success rates.
Myth 2: IVF is For Only Older Women
A large number of people think IVF treatments are intended for women above 35 years who lack natural pregnancy abilities. Infertility affects women in any age bracket. Conditions like blocked fallopian tubes, severe endometriosis, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can affect fertility at any age. IVF is also used when male fertility issues are present, such as low sperm count or motility. In fact, many women in their 20s and early 30s undergo IVF successfully. Age does impact success rates, but IVF is not limited to older women.
Myth 3: IVF is Guaranteed to Work on the First Attempt
Though IVF has a high success rate, it doesn't guarantee pregnancy in the first cycle. Success with IVF is subject to various conditions, such as age, quality of eggs, health of the sperm, and reason for infertility. Most couples require more than one cycle of IVF for conception. The most advisable method is to remain calm and have treatment from a fertility expert to maximise chances of success.
Myth 4: IVF is Very Painful
Another widespread misunderstanding is that IVF is a painful procedure. Most of the procedures involved in it, like ovarian stimulation and embryo transfer, are just mildly painful. The egg retrieval is done under anaesthesia; hence, the patient will never experience pain. At Apollo Fertility, we apply innovative methods and pain management techniques to make the experience as cosy as possible.
Myth 5: IVF Babies Are Less Healthy Than Naturally Conceived Babies
Others think that IVF babies are more likely to have birth defects and illnesses. However, the evidence indicates that IVF babies are as healthy as naturally conceived babies. Fertility clinics today provide Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) to screen for genetic disorders in the embryos prior to implanting them, lowering the chances of inherited diseases. The increased risk of birth defects due to IVF is more associated with the age and infertility of the parents and not the treatment.
Myth 6: IVF Can Cure All Infertility Issues
Although IVF is a great option for most infertility cases, it is not for everyone. It’s not always the first or best option for every couple. In many cases, simpler treatments like ovulation induction, fertility medications, or intrauterine insemination (IUI) may be more effective and affordable. Sometimes, small lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, or quitting smoking, can help improve fertility. Only after identifying the exact issue can doctors recommend the right treatment. IVF works well for many, but it's one of several paths to parenthood.
Myth 7: IVF Requires Long Hospitalisation
Most women are afraid that IVF involves prolonged hospital stays, but this is not the case. IVF is an outpatient procedure, and therefore, patients can go back home on the same day after egg retrieval and embryo transfer procedures. Most visits involve checking hormone levels and follicular growth, which do not require hospitalisation.
Myth 8: IVF is Unaffordable
Cost is also one reason IVF is considered exclusive, but several clinics, such as Apollo Fertility, offer more affordable packages and financing facilities. On average, an IVF cycle in India costs between ₹1.2 and ₹2.5 lakhs, depending on the clinic, tests involved, and medications required. Moreover, technological developments have reduced the costs of IVF, enabling it to reach more people.
Myth 9: IVF Increases the Risk of Cancer
There is no scientific evidence that IVF increases the risk of cancer. Some early studies indicated a supposed connection between fertility drugs and cancer as a cause of ovarian cancer. Current studies, however, disproved the assertion. For example, one study looked at over 1.6 million children, including around 25,000 born through IVF, and found no overall increase in cancer risk for IVF babies. Moreover, fertility drugs used in IVF were found to be safe under the prescription and supervision of a fertility expert.
Myth 10: IVF is Just for Women
Infertility is generally believed to be a female problem, but the male factor contributes to approximately 40% of the cases. Men with low semen count, poor sperm motility, or genetic problems are also treated through IVF techniques.
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) can fertilise eggs by infusing one good-quality sperm. Thus, even such couples can become parents. This is another example of IVF treatment myths that should not be believed.
Why You Should Choose Apollo Fertility For IVF Treatment?
With all the things regarding IVF treatment myths busted, let's discuss some key facts:
- Affordable Packages: Apollo Fertility provides payment plans and economical IVF packages to make it affordable.
- High-Tech Infrastructure: Our clinics employ high-end methods such as ICSI and PGT to increase the success rate.
- Personalised Attention: Patients get a tailored treatment plan based on their unique medical history and requirements.
- Integrated Fertility Services: We offer a variety of therapies, such as IUI, egg freezing, and fertility conservation.
- Emotional Counseling: IVF is not only physically difficult but also psychologically demanding, and our counsellors stand ready to aid and assist you during treatment.
Are you ready to start your fertility journey? At Apollo Fertility, we provide personalised care, advanced treatments, and expert guidance to help you achieve your dream of parenthood. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore the best options for you. Your path to a brighter tomorrow starts here.
The success rate of IVF depends on parameters like age, egg quality, and inherent fertility issues. On average, the success rate is between 40% to 60% per cycle for women below 35 and less for women above that age.
Some couples conceive during the first cycle, whereas others may take 2-3 cycles or even more, based on their fertility level. The more attempts are made, the higher the success rate.
The majority of women experience mild side effects, such as bloating, mood swings, or slight disco. Severe side effects like ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) do not happen frequently and can be managed with medicine.
No, bed rest is not required after embryo transfer. It is advisable to have light activity only but avoid any undue physical exertion. Your daily routine can be followed as usual, unless your physician suggests otherwise.
Yes, IVF with ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is a successful therapy for male infertility, which helps couples when the male partner has a low sperm count or poor sperm motility.
