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What Are the Most Common Myths About IVF, and What Is the Reality?

Mar 27, 2025

IVF Treatment

Myth vs Fact about IVF treatment Myth vs Fact about IVF treatment

Infertility is a silent struggle, a journey many couples face, often with more questions than answers. With so much at stake, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the myths surrounding IVF from misconceptions about success rates to worries about the health of IVF babies. A WHO report revealed that 1 in 6 couples globally face infertility. Yet despite its growing success, IVF is still clouded by misinformation. In this blog, we’ll separate IVF myths from reality, giving you the clarity and confidence you need to make informed decisions about your fertility treatment.

What is IVF and How Does It Work?

IVF, or In Vitro Fertilisation, is one of the most effective infertility treatments, involving several steps:

  1. Ovarian Stimulation: Fertility medications are used to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
  2. Egg Retrieval: Once the eggs are ready, they are collected from the ovaries via a minimally invasive procedure.
  3. Fertilisation: The eggs are fertilised with sperm in a laboratory.
  4. Embryo Transfer: One or more of the resulting embryos are then transferred to the uterus for potential implantation and pregnancy.

IVF is especially beneficial for couples struggling with infertility because of blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count, endometriosis, or unexplained infertility issues.

Common IVF Myths vs. Reality

Myth 1: IVF is the Only Option for Infertility

Reality: While IVF is a powerful fertility treatment, it’s not the only alternative. Depending on the underlying reason for infertility, other treatment options like Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or ovulation induction may be effective alternatives. IVF is generally recommended when other treatments have not been successful.

Myth 2: IVF Guarantees Pregnancy

Reality: IVF significantly increases the chances of pregnancy, but it does not guarantee success. Success rates depend on various factors like age, health, and the quality of the eggs and sperm used. Even with the best preparation and care, some IVF cycles do not result in pregnancy.

Myth 3: IVF Babies Are Unhealthy

Reality: IVF babies are just as healthy as those conceived naturally. In fact, extensive studies have shown no noteworthy difference in the health of babies born via IVF compared to naturally conceived children. IVF is a safe, regulated process with high standards for monitoring both the health of the mother and baby.

Myth 4: IVF is Only for Older Women

Reality: IVF is not just for older women. Many younger women with medical conditions such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premature ovarian failure or  unexplained infertility may benefit from IVF as well. Age can affect fertility, but IVF is helpful across various age groups.

Myth 5: IVF Always Results in Twins or Triplets

Reality: In the past, multiple embryos were often transferred to increase the chances of success, leading to higher rates of multiple births. However, modern IVF techniques, including single embryo transfer, have greatly reduced the likelihood of multiple births, making IVF safer for both the mother and the baby.

Who Can Benefit from IVF?

IVF isn’t just for a specific group of people—many individuals and couples can benefit from this treatment, depending on their unique circumstances. Let’s explore who is most likely to see positive results from IVF.

  • Couples with unexplained infertility: IVF can help couples who were unable to achieve successful outcomes with other fertility treatments.
  • Women with blocked fallopian tubes or endometriosis: IVF is often the most effective option for women with medical barriers to conception.
  • Men with low sperm count or motility issues: IVF, combined with ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), can help men with severe sperm issues achieve conception.

Final Words

IVF has helped millions of couples realise their dreams of parenthood, and while myths continue to surround the process, it’s important to remember the truth about IVF. It’s a well-established, effective treatment that can overcome many fertility challenges. By separating fact from myths, we hope to provide you with the clarity you need to make well-informed choices about your fertility journey.

Let Parency IVF Help You Build the Family You’ve Always Dreamed Of

Struggling with infertility? Parency IVF offers expert guidance and personalised fertility solutions tailored to your unique needs. Our team of specialists will work with you to create a treatment plan designed to optimise your chances of conception. Consult with us today and take the first step towards growing your family with care and confidence. Let’s turn your dream of parenthood into a reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the success rate of IVF?

The success rate of IVF varies relying on factors such as age, health, and the clinic’s expertise. Success rates are better for women under 35 but can be effective for women of all ages.

Is IVF painful?

While some discomfort is involved—particularly during the egg retrieval process—IVF is generally not considered painful. Pain management options are available to make the procedure more relaxing.

Can I choose the gender of my baby through IVF?

No. In most cases, IVF is used to improve the chances of pregnancy, not for gender selection.

Do IVF babies have a high risk of birth defects?

No, IVF babies are as healthy as naturally conceived babies. IVF is a safe procedure that has been extensively studied, and any risks are generally no greater than those for pregnancies that occur naturally.

How many IVF cycles are needed for success?

The number of cycles needed varies. Some couples achieve success in one cycle, while others may need more attempts. The fertility specialist will advise you on the required number of cycles based on your specific situation.
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