Understanding Infertility: It’s More Common Than You Think
Infertility is a topic that often feels taboo, but it shouldn’t be. In reality, it affects approximately 1
in every 6 couples. If you’re facing challenges conceiving, know that you’re not alone, and there
are many resources available to help you navigate this journey
Who’s Affected? It’s Not Just One Partner
Infertility doesn’t discriminate. Surprisingly, the issue can be linked to either partner—or even
both. Statistics show that in about 40% of cases, infertility is due to factors affecting men,
women, or both simultaneously. And in around 20% of cases, it’s a combination of issues from
both partners. This means a thorough evaluation of both individuals is crucial for understanding
the underlying causes.
Why Do Couples Choose IVF?
In-vitro fertilization (IVF) is a popular choice for couples struggling with natural conception, but
it’s not limited to them. Fertile individuals may also opt for IVF for various reasons, such as
lifestyle choices or medical concerns. This includes single men or women, same-sex couples,
LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with genetic conditions looking to prevent transmission.
Astonishingly, one in fifty babies born today is a result of IVF—a testament to its growing
accessibility and acceptance.
How Does IVF Work?
Dr. Bhawna Banga, a renowned infertility specialist in Delhi, explains, “IVF involves removing
eggs from a woman’s ovaries, fertilizing them outside the body, and then implanting the resulting
embryos back into the womb.” While the process sounds straightforward, it’s quite
time-consuming and demands significant commitment.
The IVF Journey: A Time-Consuming Commitment
From start to finish, the IVF process can take approximately 4-5 weeks. It begins with
stimulating the woman’s ovaries to produce multiple eggs, followed by egg retrieval. After
fertilization, the embryos are monitored and then transferred to the uterus. Frequent clinic visits,
medications, and careful monitoring are part and parcel of this journey. It can be physically and
emotionally taxing, so having a strong support system is essential.
Be Prepared for the Cost
IVF is not just time-intensive; it can be financially demanding too. Costs can quickly add up,
covering everything from regular scans to egg retrieval, embryo development, and transfer. It’s
advisable to get a detailed cost breakdown and plan for potential additional expenses before
starting treatment.
Age Matters: The Clock is Ticking
If you’re considering IVF, timing is crucial. For women, the success rate of IVF decreases
significantly after the age of 40. Men are not immune either; testosterone levels and sperm
quality can decline with age, affecting the likelihood of conception. Early planning and
consultation with a specialist can improve your chances of success.
One Cycle May Not Be Enough
It’s essential to manage expectations when starting IVF. Data indicates that only about 35% of
patients achieve a successful pregnancy on their first attempt. While this number is improving, it
often takes multiple cycles to achieve the desired result.
Debunking the Myths: Frozen Embryos Are Just as Good!
There’s a common misconception that fresh eggs or embryos are superior to frozen ones.
Recent studies have debunked this myth, showing that frozen eggs and embryos are just as
viable as their fresh counterparts. In fact, freezing embryos instead of eggs is often more
effective as they are more stable and have a higher survival rate during thawing. Women under
35 who freeze 12 eggs have a 50% chance of having a baby through IVF treatment.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the world of IVF can feel overwhelming, but being informed and prepared makes the
journey easier. Whether you’re exploring options due to infertility or for other personal reasons,
IVF offers hope and possibilities that were once unimaginable. Remember to consult with an
infertility specialist to understand your unique situation and make informed decisions.