Assisted reproductive technology (ART) has been increasingly used over past few decades accounting for ∼2% of all births worldwide.
Currently, India performs 2 to 2.5 lakhs IVFs on average per year. Nevertheless, estimates show that this number might increase to 5 to 6 lakhs cycles yearly, with a market value of $3721 billion by 2030 as opposed to $793 million in 2020. The procedure collects mature eggs from ovaries which are then fertilized by sperm in a lab. After fertilization, embryos are transferred to the uterus.
On one hand, advances in IVF have significantly improved the success rates of the procedure along with expanding treatment options for patients and leading to better outcomes. However, false beliefs about the procedure still exist, stopping some couples from going through with it and experiencing the happiness of having a child.
Here, let us debunk common myths about IVF and help couples to understand the truth behind the procedure and make informed decisions about their fertility journey.
Myth – IVF is a guaranteed treatment for infertility.
Fact – while IVF is sometimes hailed as a “miracle” treatment for infertility, it’s crucial to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to conception. Success rates vary based on a number of variables, including as the woman’s age, the embryos’ quality, and the underlying reason of her infertility. It’s critical to have reasonable expectations and realize that a successful IVF pregnancy may take several rounds. Fertility specialists will collaborate closely with you to maximize your chances of success and, if needed, look into other possible solutions.
Myth – Only young couples benefit from this treatment
Fact – While fertility can be influenced by age group, this procedure is often beneficial for women of all ages. In women with advanced age, donor eggs from young ladies can be employed to improve the chances of conception. However, the fertility rates in mature ladies are substantially lower compared to young ladies.
Myth – IVF results in increased risk of birth defects
Fact – There is no scientific proof to support this myth; rather, new developments have made it feasible to test embryos for genetic abnormalities and assist parents who have a family history of problems in having healthy offspring. Naturally conceived children and IVF children are no different. This is due to the fact that sperm and eggs are chosen for fertilization based on quality, thanks to the selection process. Moreover, sophisticated methods such as Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) are utilized when a partner’s sperm appears abnormal or when the partner’s sperm count is low. Additionally, after fertilizing multiple embryos, the experts only transfer the healthy one into the uterus.
Myth – It is a treatment for the rich and famous
Fact – while compared to some other surgical procedures, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is somewhat more expensive, but the good thing is, their cost has not increased significantly over the last few years allowing couples to make use of this procedure to fulfil their dream of parenthood.
Myth – Baby will not be yours:
Fact – The child conceived through your wife’s egg and your husband’ sperm is 100 percent genetically related to the parents. You will still be the parent of the kid even if an egg or sperm donor is used, as one parent makes up half of the child’s genetic makeup. The most crucial thing to keep in mind is that you genuinely desire a kid, and in-vitro fertilization (IVF) offers you the chance to live through the amazing journey a woman experiences throughout pregnancy and childbirth and birth of a child.
The author is a Gynaecologist, Obstetrician and IVF Expert, Nurture IVF Clinic, New Delhi.