Misconceptions About In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

One of the most common misconceptions about in vitro fertilization is that it is an admission of failure. Many couples who could benefit from IVF do not even consider it because they are afraid it reflects on their manhood, their womanhood, or their age status. The fact is that infertility can happen to nearly anyone. It should never be seen as a reason to blame oneself or one’s partner, or to feel badly about not being able to conceive naturally.

Many women have misconceptions about the pain involved in the process of in vitro fertilization (IVF). More women would likely opt for this process if they were aware that it is not nearly as painful as they believe. While minor discomfort can be expected, a healthy woman is not likely to experience significant pain from the in vitro fertilization process.

Another common misconception about in vitro fertilization is that it is a rather dangerous process. Worries about health risks can prevent women from seeking IVF. While any medical procedure contains some degree of risk, the health risks associated with in vitro fertilization are not significant.

IVF misconceptions also include believing that only wealthy people can afford it. Although IVF is not inexpensive, a couple can look at it as an investment in their future and in their family. With this in mind, the overall costs involved with in vitro fertilization are affordable to most couples.

Some couples have the misconception that if they are too old to conceive a child naturally, the woman’s body cannot withstand a full-term pregnancy. While aging affects the production of eggs, a healthy woman’s uterus is still capable of carrying a child to term.

Similar to the misconception about pregnancy, there is the misconception that an older woman who becomes pregnant through in vitro fertilization is much more likely to experience a difficult childbirth, simply due to her age. The fact is that if she is strong and healthy enough to experience childbirth, IVF will not reduce her chance of a healthy and safe birth.

To learn more about in vitro fertilization as well as egg donors and egg donation, preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), and tubal reversal, it is important to visit our Dallas area fertility center.