IVF as a procedure is no less than a miracle but in the end it is just a procedure and not a miracle. We need to understand and reflect upon ourselves as to, Is it that we expect the unexpected out of IVF. Enlisted are some myths and facts about IVF.
- Myth: IVF is the one stop solution to all sorts of problems of infertility.
Fact: There are various solutions to infertility like Intra uterine insemination and IVF i.e. In Vitro Fertilisation is just one of them. The solution is particular to the problem and only a doctor can advice on what suits best in which case.
2. Myth: IVF means a confirmed pregnancy.
Fact: IVF is juts a procedure and it basically means doctor assisted fertilisation in the laboratory, like natural fertilisation does not ensure confirmed pregnancy so does not IVF.It is well known though that the success rate of IVF is more than that of natural fertilisation but is still not 100%.
3. Myth: IVF pregnancies lead to caesarean births.
Fact: The birth of the baby whether vaginal or caesarean does not depend upon the type of fertilisation but instead depends upon the position of the baby inside the uterus and so IVF and caesarean delivery is not related.
4. Myth: IVF is not safe and sound.
Fact: It is a completely safe and sound procedure with only 2-5% chances of complications.
5. Myth: IVF possess a 100%achievement rate.
Fact: The achievement rate of IVF depends upon elements like age group, the reason for infertility and also natural and hormonal issues.
6. Myth: It is a treatment for only the rich and famous.
Fact: IVF is a little bit costly but still less expensive than most of the other surgical treatments.
7. Myth: If 10 eggs are extracted from a female, there will always be 10 embryos that will be formed.
Fact: The eggs extracted sometimes are empty follicles, meaning the required part is missing.
Also at times, only fluid is seen in the extract which is of no use in the actual fertilisation. Hence even though it seems as if 10 eggs or more have been extracted it does not mean 10 fertilised embryos.
8. Myth: Each cycle of IVF is successful, mandatorily.
Fact: When the ovaries are stimulated, there are times when the body does not make enough follicle and so when extracted the follicles are not enough to form an embryo and this is referred to as a cancel cycle in an IVF.
9.Myth: Only on the day or week when the patient’s eggs are extracted can there be fertilisation.
Fact: The eggs can be frozen and stored and later the frozen embryo be implanted which is called as FET(Frozen Embryo Transfer).
10. Myth: freezing the eggs destroys the eggs.
Fact: Freezing just inactivates the eggs and they can be used later when needed.