Understanding IVF: Debunk the common myths and misconceptions 

Myths of in-vitro fertilisation: One of the biggest misconceptions about IVF is that it guarantees pregnancy. While it significantly improves the chances of conception, many factors influence its success (Image: Canva)

In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a medical procedure that involves fertilising an egg outside the body and then implanting the resulting embryo into the uterus. It’s a common solution for couples struggling with infertility, offering a pathway to pregnancy when other treatments fail. Although the process may seem complex, IVF is a meticulously planned procedure that includes state-of-the-art technology to increase the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.

In-vitro fertilisation has revolutionised the world of fertility treatments, helping countless couples realise their dreams of parenthood. Yet, despite its widespread use, many myths and misconceptions still surround the procedure, says Dr Sheetal Jindal, Senior Consultant and Medical Director at Jindal IVF Chandigarh. "From misconceptions about success rates to fears of painful processes, it's essential to clear the air and get a more accurate understanding of IVF. Also, IVF has brought hope to many couples facing fertility challenges, but it’s essential to manage expectations and understand that success depends on various factors," she adds.

Also read | In vitro fertilisation: 5 key points to keep in mind before beginning IVF treatment

Dr Jindal debunks common misconceptions and myths related to IVF:

• IVF guarantees pregnancy: One of the biggest misconceptions about IVF is that it guarantees pregnancy. While it significantly improves the chances of conception, many factors influence its success. Age, sperm quality, embryo quality, and endometrial thickness, all play key roles. IVF can improve your odds, but success is never guaranteed due to the individual nature of each case.

• IVF leads to multiple births: Another myth suggests that IVF always results in multiple births. While multiple pregnancies were once common, advances in embryo transfer techniques, such as elective single-embryo transfer (eSET), have drastically reduced this risk. Dr Jindal notes, “Though with modern advancements in embryo transfer techniques, such as elective single-embryo transfer (eSET), the risk of multiple pregnancies has been greatly minimised.”

• IVF is only for women with blocked fallopian tubes: It’s often thought that IVF is only for women with blocked fallopian tubes, but this is far from the truth. IVF can address a variety of fertility issues, including male factor infertility, ovulation disorders, and unexplained infertility. IVF is a versatile treatment, offering hope to both men and women facing different types of fertility challenges.

• IVF only works for younger women: Another prevalent myth is that IVF is only effective for younger women. While age is a factor in IVF success, women over 40 can still achieve pregnancy with IVF, often with the help of donor eggs. Dr. There have been many women over 40 who have had successful pregnancies with the right medical support and treatment.

• IVF can be used to get 'designer babies': Some fear that IVF can be used to create 'designer babies', selecting specific traits or features. In reality, IVF with preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is used to screen for genetic abnormalities, not to choose specific characteristics. PGT is designed to ensure the health of the baby, not to create a 'perfect' child.

• IVF is painful: Another common concern is that IVF is an extremely painful process. While IVF involves injections and egg retrieval, advancements in medical technology have made the process much more comfortable. With modern techniques, the discomfort associated with IVF is minimal, and we ensure that patients are as comfortable as possible during each stage.

• IVF is the first and only option for infertility: Many people believe IVF is the first step in infertility treatment, but this is not always the case. Other treatments, such as fertility medications and intrauterine insemination (IUI), are often tried before IVF, depending on one’s circumstances. Experts typically explore less invasive treatments first and consider IVF only when other options haven’t been successful.