7 misconceptions about infertility and IVF debunked

Wanting to have a baby and not being able to conceive can be heartbreaking. The process of getting pregnant may not always be as simple as you might think. Infertility is a very complex condition. Many myths and misconceptions surround the topic of infertility, and while medical science has come up with more and more interventions and technologies to help individuals conceive, much of it is misunderstood. That’s why we’re going to dispel some common myths about infertility and IVF treatment.

Here are 7 common myths about infertility and IVF:

Myth 1: Infertility is usually caused by a problem in the woman

A fact: The causes of infertility are almost equally divided between men and women. In addition, there are often several causes. Identifying one cause (for example, blocked fallopian tubes in women or low sperm count in men) does not mean that others do not exist. A thorough evaluation by a fertility specialist is essential to save time, money and emotional energy.

Myth 2: Infertility is a problem for older women.

A fact: Infertility is caused by many factors that can sometimes affect women and men in their early childbearing years. Conditions as they are polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis are common in young women and often cause fertility problems. Other medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases or cancer, can also significantly affect fertility. Environmental and behavioral factors may also play a role. In women, the ovarian reserve declines with age and even more so after the mid-thirties, but we also see young women with a reduced egg reserve.

The truth is that not all older women will have trouble conceiving and not all young couples will conceive easily.

Myth 3: You conceived your first child easily, so your next pregnancy should be easy

A fact: There is no sure way to know. The only thing that’s definitely changed since your first child might be your age. You are older. You may have less time for spontaneity in your sex life. There may be other problems that have appeared now. Your partner’s sperm count may have decreased. Your pipes may be clogged. Your egg reserve may have decreased. If you are under 35 and have been trying to conceive for a year (even if it is a second child), consult your doctor (six months if you are over 35).

Read also: IVF is an effective and safe procedure for the treatment of infertility

Myth 4: IVF is the only option for infertile couples

A fact: Not everyone needs IVF. Other treatments such as sperm quality medication, ovulation induction, IUI, minimally invasive fertility surgery, etc. are available and many couples can easily conceive with these simpler treatment options.

Myth 5: IVF reduces your ovarian reserve by removing the eggs you would otherwise have

A fact: At the beginning of each cycle, your body recruits a pool of eggs that can mature that month. Usually, only one matures and is released (ovulates), while the rest of the group die. With IVF, all the eggs that are collected naturally in that month are stimulated so that they all have a chance to mature. Nothing happens to the other eggs (which are not part of the group selected for this cycle).

Myth 6: IVF will give you twins or triplets

A fact– It is not IVF per se, but the number of embryos transferred into the uterus during the IVF process increases the risk of multiple children. In the past, doctors transferred two or more embryos in the hope of achieving a pregnancy, greatly increasing the chances of twins or triplets. Now, technological advances mean we have a much better understanding of which embryos have the best chance. You can discuss transferring one embryo at a time with your treating doctor.

Read also: World IVF Day: 4 benefits of IVF treatment at the right age

Myth 7: IVF always works

A fact: There is no fertility treatment (including IVF) anywhere in the world that can guarantee pregnancy. The most important fact to know about IVF is that it is not 100% successful – and that the IVF process can take time, money and even an emotional toll on your life.

The probability of a successful IVF cycle depends on several factors, the most important of which is the age of the partner. Most of the factors that determine success are out of your control. But there are various ways you can increase your chances of success, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, certain supplements, etc. Of course, the fertility center and fertility specialist you choose also play a role. role.