IVF is a commonly misunderstood procedure, and these misconceptions can create unnecessary stress for couples who are considering IVF as a viable option for starting a family. It is always best to consult with a reproductive specialist to understand the process and any associated risks.
1. IVF is only for infertile couples: IVF is often thought of as a solution only for couples who are unable to conceive naturally. However, IVF is also used for a variety of reasons such as genetic disorders, endometriosis, male infertility, etc. It can also be used by single individuals and same-sex couples to start a family. Infertility and age can often be seen to go hand in hand, as success rates can drop for women once they approach their 40s, so although it is possible to wait too long for IVF to be an option for you, working with doctors specialising in over 40s programs ensures for better chances of success.
2. IVF is always successful: Although IVF has a high success rate, it is unfortunately not always successful. Although medical specialists are able to intervene and provide extensive information and knowledge towards achieving the best outcome, the success of IVF depends on many factors such as the age of the woman, the cause of infertility, the number of embryos transferred, and many other factors. Many factors that just can’t be controlled by you.
3. IVF is painful: IVF can be associated with some discomfort, such as bloating, cramping and mild pain during the egg retrieval process. However, this discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
4. IVF is too expensive: As IVF is provided by many private health clinics that have teams of IVF specialists on board, an IVF procedure can be seen as more costly than other run-of-the-mill procedures. However due its rising popularity, there are various medicare rebates that cover many of the costs associated with IVF. Additionally, there are also alternative options such as donor egg or sperm programs that can help make IVF more affordable.
5. IVF leads to multiple pregnancies: While multiple pregnancies are a risk of IVF, it is not always the case. The number of embryos transferred during IVF can be adjusted to minimize the risk of multiple pregnancies, and single embryo transfer is becoming increasingly common to minimize this risk.