Myths and Facts about IVF Treatment

In vitro fertilization has gained immense popularity in the past several years. This assisted reproductive technology has given hope to numerous couples with infertility problems. IVF  treatment has assisted the birth of millions of healthy babies all over the world. 

However, many people still get confused and get scared due to the myths surrounding this reproductive technique. So, here we have compiled some common myths about IVF technology along with their facts. 

Myth 1: IVF is the only reproductive technique for all kinds of infertility problems. 

Fact: IVF is one of the several types of assisted reproductive procedures that are available today. Other procedures such as Intra-Uterine Insemination (IUI), Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), ovulation induction (OI) with medications, and many more can help couples with infertility problems conceive. 

Myth 2: You will have multiple pregnancies. 

Fact The chances of multiple pregnancies – having twins or triplets is higher than average in the case of IVF treatment. However, most women who undergo the IVF procedure have only a single child. According to the statistics, an average of 21% of IVF pregnancies may result in twins and 1% may result in triplets. Also, the chances of multiple births can be minimized. This is because, during the IVF process, multiple embryos are usually transferred to increase the chance of pregnancy, but If the doctor can discuss and limit this number. 

Myth 3: IVF medications can lead to cancer. 

Fact: This is one of the biggest myths about IVF treatments that people have. Many think that this method can increase the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer in a woman due to the multiple hormone injections they receive during the process. This has not been proven yet and studies published over the years have indicated that IVF is not a risk factor contributing to the development of cancer. Also, the risk of infection is minimal with this procedure.

Myth 4: It is very expensive. 

Fact: This is a common misconception. IVF is not an expensive method, but it may depend on the particular economic situation of the couples. Most people find the costs to be manageable. You can save up further by choosing to have the procedure at top medical tourism destinations such as India, Turkey, and others. IVF treatment cost in India is relatively lower than in several other countries, but with equally good quality of services. 

Myth 5: Age does not affect the results. 

Fact: Age is a considerable factor for IVF. In general, the health risks to both the mother and the baby is more when the woman is of advanced reproductive age. However, this should not deter a woman from seeking consultation from an IVF specialist as every situation and potential for success is unique. Women above the age of 27 start to experience a decrease in fertility and more so after the age of 35. The decline becomes even more steeply after 40. Although a healthy lifestyle may help stop the natural aging process age does affect the chances of fertility and success rate of a reproductive treatment method. 

Myth 6: For IVF treatment, a stay in the hospital is required. 

Fact: The IVF procedure has multiple steps that are carried out at different time periods. The hospital admission is required only for a few hours for the egg-collection procedure. The woman will not be required to be admitted to the hospital for days. Other steps are also day procedures, for which no hospitalization may be required. 

Myth 7: Babies born through IVF technique have birth defects and malformations

The overall risk of giving birth to an IVF baby with malformations is low. The risk of having an abnormality or birth defect in a fetus is spontaneous or it is the same for IVF babies as with the general population.

Myth 8: The success rate of IVF is relatively low.

The IVF success rate is around 40% in women who are below the age of 35. Also, the success rate of IVF can vary depending on factors such as to cause of infertility, age, and biological as well as hormonal conditions.

Myth 9: Women who have IVF pregnancy have caesarean births

IVF pregnancies are similar to usually conceived pregnancies and not a sign for a caesarean section birth. Couples who have attempted to conceive for countless years or those who have an increased possibility of a multiple pregnancies may opt for an elective caesarean birth. However, a standard vaginal birth is normally achievable with an IVF method.

Myth 10: IVF is not a safe method 

IVF is a safe assisted reproductive procedure. According to the studies, the method has only about 2% of patients who stand at the risk of developing problems due to ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. But it is not a usual occurrence and most couples have a safe pregnancy after IVF.