In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a remarkable advancement in modern medicine that has brought hope and happiness to millions of families around the world. It has helped countless couples struggling with infertility to achieve their dream of parenthood.
What is IVF?
IVF (In vitro fertilization) is a process of fertilization that involves combining eggs into sperm outside the body, in a laboratory. The resulting fertilized egg, called an embryo is then placed back in the woman’s womb got it to grow and develop. It is the most preferred reproductive technology for patients who face difficulty undergoing conception.
Despite its huge success and widespread acceptance, there are still myths and misconceptions that can create unnecessary confusion among people regarding this reproductive option.
Check out these myths and facts about the IVF procedure to eliminate confusion about this method.
1. Myth- IVF is only for older women
Fact- While it’s true that age can affect a woman’s fertility, IVF is not exclusively for older women. IVF can be beneficial for various fertility issues, such as tubal blockages, male factor infertility, endometriosis, and unexplained infertility, regardless of the woman’s age.
2. Myth- IVF babies have a higher risk of birth defects
Fact- Extensive research has shown that the IVF procedure does not increase the risk of congenital birth defects as compared to naturally conceived babies. The risk of birth defects mostly correlates with the parents’ age and medical history, rather than the method of conception.
3. Myth- IVF increases the risk of cancer
Fact- There is no direct link between IVF treatment and an increased risk of cancer in women in any of the studies or medical research. The hormones used during IVF treatment are similar to those produced during the menstrual cycle, and they do not appear to be associated with higher cancer risk.
4. Myth- IVF always results in multiple babies
Fact- There is only a 20 percent chance of multiple pregnancies in IVF, and this has decreased significantly due to advancements in reproductive technologies and embryo transfer practices. Today, fertility specialists can transfer a single embryo into the uterus, reducing the chances of multiple pregnancies while maintaining a high success rate.
5. Myth- There are comparatively more complications in an IVF pregnancy
Fact- The best chances of conception and healthy delivery in a woman is when she is less than 33 years of age. And especially, after the age of 37, these chances reduce speedily, and the risk of complication increases for both the mother and the baby. IVF does not add to the complications that are age-induced.
6. Myth- IVF is financially out of reach for most couples
Fact- While IVF can be expensive, there are many fertility clinics that offer financial assistance programs and payment plans to patients to make it more accessible. Also, there are some insurance plans as well that can cover certain aspects of fertility treatments. Therefore, it is suggested that you check all the options and discuss the potential costs with healthcare providers.
