Misconception about IVF in Pakistan

1. Misconception: IVF Is Always Successful

One of the biggest misconceptions about IVF is the assumption that it guarantees a successful pregnancy. While IVF has made significant advances, it’s not always a straightforward solution. Success rates can vary depending on multiple factors, including age, the underlying cause of infertility, lifestyle, and medical history. Generally, younger women and those without severe fertility issues tend to have higher success rates. However, even in ideal circumstances, there’s no guarantee, and multiple cycles may be necessary to achieve pregnancy.

Understanding Common Misconceptions About IVF: Debunking Myths Around In-Vitro Fertilization

In-vitro fertilization (IVF) has become a prominent option for couples and individuals facing fertility challenges. As a medical procedure that enables fertilization outside the body, IVF has given hope to many who struggle with infertility. However, despite its growing popularity and remarkable success stories, IVF is still shrouded in myths and misconceptions. These misunderstandings can deter individuals from seeking treatment or lead them to have unrealistic expectations. In this post, we’ll clarify some of the most common misconceptions surrounding IVF, giving you a clearer picture of what this journey truly entails.

According to recent studies, the average success rate for women under 35 is around 40%, which declines with age. Couples embarking on IVF should prepare for potential setbacks and understand that it may take more than one attempt. With a realistic approach, the emotional and physical demands of IVF can become more manageable.

2. Misconception: IVF Is Only for Older Women

Another common myth is that IVF is exclusively for older women who face age-related fertility issues. In reality, IVF is suitable for a wide range of people dealing with infertility, regardless of age. It’s a valuable option for couples with blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, male infertility factors, or unexplained infertility. IVF can also benefit younger women who wish to preserve their fertility through egg freezing or have been diagnosed with a condition that affects fertility.

3. Misconception: IVF Increases the Risk of Cancer

Many people fear that IVF treatments can increase the risk of cancer due to the hormonal injections involved. This misconception likely stems from the fact that IVF involves the use of fertility drugs that stimulate the ovaries, which some believe could lead to ovarian or breast cancer. However, extensive research has shown that there’s no significant link between IVF treatment and an increased risk of cancer. Studies conducted over the years have concluded that the hormonal treatments used in IVF are generally safe and do not have a lasting impact on the body’s cancer risk profile.

4. Misconception: IVF Always Results in Multiple Births

It’s true that IVF once had a higher rate of multiple births due to the common practice of transferring multiple embryos. However, with advancements in technology and better understanding of embryo viability, single embryo transfer (SET) has become increasingly popular. This practice significantly reduces the likelihood of multiple births. Fertility specialists today work with patients to select the best approach, often aiming for single embryo transfers to minimize the risks associated with twins or triplets.

By customizing IVF treatments to each patient, clinics now aim for healthy, singleton pregnancies wherever possible. While twins or higher-order multiples may still occur, the misconception that IVF always results in multiple births is outdated.

5. Misconception: IVF Is Only for the Wealthy

A common assumption is that IVF is prohibitively expensive and only accessible to wealthy individuals. While IVF can indeed be costly, many fertility clinics and health providers now offer various payment options, financial assistance programs, and insurance coverage to make it more affordable. Some countries also offer government-subsidized IVF programs or insurance coverage for eligible couples. Furthermore, many clinics provide discounts for multiple cycles or guarantee programs, which can alleviate the financial burden.

In recent years, fertility benefits have been added to more health insurance plans as employers recognize the importance of supporting reproductive health. Always check with your clinic and insurance provider for options, as there are more financial resources available now than ever before.

6. Misconception: IVF Is Only for Couples

IVF is often associated with couples struggling with infertility, but it’s equally valuable for single individuals and same-sex couples who want to start a family. Single women can use IVF with a sperm donor, and same-sex female couples may also use the procedure to conceive. Additionally, IVF can be part of a surrogacy arrangement, enabling individuals and couples to have children even if they are unable to carry a pregnancy themselves.

7. Misconception: IVF Is Painful and Emotionally Draining

There’s a belief that IVF is extremely painful and emotionally overwhelming. While it’s true that IVF requires physical and emotional resilience, advancements in medical techniques have minimized the pain associated with procedures such as egg retrieval and embryo transfer. Patients may experience mild discomfort, but clinics now offer improved pain management and counseling services to support mental well-being. Many couples find that having a support system and access to counseling services can make the IVF journey more manageable and less isolating.

8. Misconception: IVF Babies Are “Different”

Some people worry that babies born through IVF may have higher risks of health problems or developmental issues. However, studies have shown that children born through IVF are just as healthy and well-developed as those conceived naturally. IVF simply facilitates conception in a laboratory setting but does not alter the genetics of the embryo. With proper prenatal care and a healthy lifestyle, IVF babies can thrive just as any other child.

9. Misconception: IVF Only Works After All Other Treatments Fail

IVF is often perceived as the last resort after all other fertility treatments have failed. While it is true that some couples turn to IVF after unsuccessful attempts with other fertility options, IVF can also be a first-line treatment in certain cases, such as blocked fallopian tubes or severe male infertility. Consulting with a fertility specialist can help determine whether IVF is the best starting point based on individual medical conditions and reproductive goals.

Final Thoughts: Embracing a Well-Informed Perspective

IVF can be a transformative option for individuals and couples hoping to start a family, but it’s essential to approach it with a well-informed mindset. Misconceptions about IVF can lead to unnecessary fear and stress, so understanding the realities can help you prepare mentally, physically, and financially for the journey ahead.

Ultimately, IVF is not a one-size-fits-all solution but a flexible, evolving treatment that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each person. By dispelling these myths, we can pave the way for greater understanding, reduce stigma, and open doors for those who seek to explore the possibilities of assisted reproduction.

Dr Adnan Jabbar
MBBS, Fertility & Family Medicine, DFM, MH, MPH (cont.) ART Consultant. IVF, IVFC, ICSI, PGD Expert. CEO / Founder IVF Experts.

hello@ivfexperts.pk
www.ivfexperts.pk
+92 3 111 101 483 (IVF)