Fertility treatments, like in vitro fertilization (IVF), help hundreds of thousands of couples and individuals grow their families every year. Although these treatments are widely used, they’re often surrounded by numerous myths and misconceptions that may discourage aspiring parents. By addressing and debunking these myths, we can encourage patients to seek the support and care they need to pursue fertility care with confidence.
1. Myth: IVF Always Works the First Time
IVF is an incredibly effective fertility treatment, but that doesn’t mean it always works on the first try. Several factors influence IVF success, including age, egg and sperm quality, and overall uterine health. In general, the chances of achieving pregnancy improve after undergoing two or more IVF cycles. Typically, younger individuals tend to have higher success rates compared to older individuals.
2. Myth: Fertility Treatments Are Only for Older People
It’s a common fertility misconception that treatments like IVF are only for older individuals. While it’s true that egg quality and quantity decline with age, many other factors can also affect men and women regardless of how old they are, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and low sperm count, among other conditions.
3. Myth: You Shouldn’t Seek Help “Too Early”
Doctors typically recommend consulting a fertility specialist if you’ve been trying to conceive for one year without success, if you’re under 35 years old, or for six months without success if you’re over 35. However, you’re not required to meet these guidelines to see a reproductive endocrinologist. Anyone at any time can consult a fertility expert, especially if they have already been diagnosed with a condition that may impact their fertility. The earlier you start treatment, the higher your chances of success.
Modern Fertility Science: Separating Fact From Fiction
Fertility science is constantly evolving. In addition to treatments like intrauterine insemination (IUI), IVF, and third-party reproduction using donor eggs and sperm, fertility experts can genetically test embryos and utilize techniques like intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) to inject a single sperm directly into an egg during IVF.
Fertility science is a powerful field, but like any area of medicine, it has its limitations. Despite thorough testing of embryos, pregnancy is never a guarantee, and fertility procedures can come with certain risks. While fertility treatments may not always be the right choice for you and your family-building goals, it’s essential to consult with a reproductive specialist rather than allowing IVF myths and misconceptions to prevent you from seeking help.
Learn More About Fertility Treatments From an Expert
It can be challenging to separate truth from myth when it comes to fertility care. No matter where you are on your journey, it’s essential to consult with a reproductive endocrinologist who can address your questions and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
At The Prelude Network®, we make it easy to find world-class fertility services in your area. Every clinic in our network has exceptional physicians who will help you find your ideal path to parenthood. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment with a fertility specialist near you.