IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is one of the most popular fertility treatments that have allowed countless couples and individuals to fulfil their dreams of parenthood. Even with its increasing acceptance and success, numerous misconceptions still prevail, making the understanding of this process démodé. These myths not only augment confusion but also, in various cases, create unnecessary fear and inhibition among interested couples. This article sets out to clarify the commonly held myths about IVF and provide informative, factual information to enable individuals and families to make well-formed decisions.
IVF Is Just for a Few Women with Fertility Problems
One of the most common myths about IVF is that a woman is only considered when there is a problem with her fertility. The lie is much more complicated than that. Usually, IVF administered to treat an obstructed fallopian tube or ovulation disorder, is also of great help to couples where the male partner faces fertility problems, as in the case of abnormal sperm counts or motility. It happens to be known that male infertility accounts for nearly 40-50% of infertility cases. Besides, same-sex couples, single parents, or those who are postponing the same by freezing their eggs for later use rely mainly on IVF.
IVF is not merely a treatment of women but a more comprehensive solution that offers doctors the ability to assist both men and women with a wide variety of fertility challenges, making it a more viable option in many differing types of family-building scenarios.
IVF Myths: It always results in multiple births
The opinion that IVF for sure leads to twins, triplets, or higher orders is deeply rooted in the very early days of IVF when multiple embryos were commonly transferred to increase the chances of pregnancy success. Although this view has somewhat changed today, amalgamation of methods still tends to this day. Today, it is common for clinics to approach elective single embryo transfer (eSET) where only one embryo is often transferred at a go, mainly for younger women or in women thought to have a good prognosis. Such a policy helps to reduce the chance of multiple births but successfully maintains relatively high success rates.
The aim of IVF is the health of pregnant women and babies, and by transferring fewer embryos, complications from multiple births associated with premature delivery and low birth weight are reduced significantly. Couples may discuss options with a fertility specialist to ensure that they make the best decision for their circumstances.
Additional Read – IVF vs. IUI: Understanding the Right Choice for You
IVF Is Only for Younger Women
A common assumption is that IVF is only effective for younger women, and older women have little chance of success with the treatment. While it’s true that fertility declines with age, IVF can still be a viable option for many women in their late 30s and early 40s. Age does affect egg quality and quantity, but IVF offers various solutions, including the use of donor eggs, which can significantly improve the chances of success for older women.
Moreover, many women opt to freeze their eggs at a younger age, preserving their fertility for the future. This option allows women to undergo IVF later in life using their younger, healthier eggs. Infertility treatment has advanced significantly, and IVF misconceptions, like the idea that it’s only for younger women, should not hold anyone back. Fertility clinics offer individualised treatment plans based on a woman’s specific needs and reproductive health, ensuring that age is not always a limiting factor in pursuing IVF.
IVF Increases the Risk of Cancer
Some fear that the hormonal treatments used in IVF increase the risk of cancer, particularly breast or ovarian cancer. However, extensive research has shown no definitive link between IVF and an increased risk of cancer. The hormones used during IVF mimic those naturally produced by the body, and while they temporarily elevate hormone levels, studies have found no conclusive evidence that they contribute to long-term health risks, including cancer.
For those considering infertility treatment at an IVF centre in Ahmedabad, it’s crucial to know that patients undergoing IVF are closely monitored by their healthcare team. This ensures the treatment is both safe and effective, debunking common IVF misconceptions around health risks.
IVF Is a Quick Fix
IVF is often misunderstood as a “quick fix” for infertility, when in reality, it’s a process that requires patience, both emotionally and physically. A complete IVF cycle involves several stages, including ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, and embryo transfer. The process may take weeks, and it doesn’t always result in pregnancy on the first attempt.
It’s also worth noting that IVF can be emotionally taxing. The highs and lows of the treatment process, combined with the anticipation of the outcome, can be challenging for many couples. Emotional support, either through counselling or support groups, is crucial for navigating the complexities of IVF. Couples who are prepared for the journey, with realistic expectations and a support network in place, often find the process more manageable.
IVF Babies Are Less Healthy
Some people worry that babies conceived through IVF are less healthy or more prone to genetic issues. In truth, babies born through IVF treatment, including those at an IVF centre in Ahmedabad, are just as healthy as those conceived naturally. IVF provides an additional benefit of allowing genetic screening (PGS/PGD) of embryos before transfer, which can help detect certain genetic conditions and increase the chances of a healthy baby.
Addressing common IVF misconceptions, the process also gives parents the chance to choose embryos with the best potential for success, leading to healthy pregnancies and outcomes. Many successful infertility treatments result in full-term, healthy babies who grow up just like any other child.
Conclusion
IVF is a big step toward parenthood; however, it is crucial to go into the procedure as an informed patient. Dispel the common misconceptions so that couples are free to minimize their panic and feel empowered with their choices. Remember that IVF does not work for everyone; each family has its own unique journey, laden with hope and possibilities. And you do not have to do it alone. With Banker IVF, one of the leading IVF centres in Ahmedabad we will help you every step of the way. If you are having problems related to infertility treatments then feel free to consult our experts. We are happy to guide you with care, compassion, and expertise to make your motherhood dream come true. Let’s walk this road together.