Despite the fact that the IVF (in vitro fertilization) method has existed for more than 40 years and has helped more than 6 million people to be born, there are still many myths and superstitions around assisted reproductive technologies.
The most popular misconceptions about IVF
MYTH №1. IVF reduces a woman’s oocyte supply and causes early menopause
In fact, the IVF procedure does not in any way affect the ovarian reserve.
MYTH №2. Test-tube babies are usually handicapped and developmentally delayed.
Numerous studies even suggest the opposite. The fact is that the most hardy and strong embryos are selected for successful IVF.
MYTH №3. IVF is always a multiple pregnancy.
Not in all cases! Several embryos can be transferred at once, as well as they may only transfer one embryo. Simply, when several embryos are transferred into the uterus, the likelihood of pregnancy increases. Nowadays, the IVF procedure has improved so much that there is no need to transfer several embryos at once. But you need to understand that one embryo can divide.
MYTH №4. IVF is done for women over 40 and older.
Today, statistics even say the opposite. The fact is that today there are more young women diagnosed with infertility than there were before, therefore IVF is often used even at a fairly young age.
MYTH №5. IVF is painful and unpleasant.
The in vitro fertilization procedure does not cause pain. The collection of oocytes during puncture is performed with anesthesia under ultrasound control.
MYTH №6. IVF pregnancy is difficult.
Pregnancy obtained as a result of IVF is no different from the usual one and has no “special” complications.
In fact, there are many more myths around IVF, but almost all of them are delusional. Do not believe everything that is said about in vitro fertilization. If you have fears or doubts, discuss them with your fertility doctor.
IVF is an effective infertility treatment that should not be feared. In most cases of infertility, this is the only chance to give birth to your own child.