IVF Success In India: Doctor Explains What Every Couple Needs To Know Before Starting

While success stories are inspiring, IVF is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Several factors, including age, medical history, lifestyle and clinic expertise, play a crucial role in determining the outcome. Before beginning this journey, it’s important to be aware of what IVF entails, the steps involved, potential risks, and how to improve your chances of success. In conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr. Shweta Mishra, Gynaecologist & Obstetrician, Trulife Family Health Clinic - Ghaziabad, shares what every couple should know before starting IVF.

Infertility is rapidly emerging as a significant health concern in India, driven by lifestyle factors as well as medical conditions. Factors such as delayed childbearing due to delayed marriage, chronic stress, physical inactivity, obesity, cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and untreated reproductive disorders are responsible for the rising number of fertility problems. PCOS and endometriosis are common underlying conditions seen in females, while for males, they usually have low sperm count and low sperm motility. Dr. Shweta Mishra states, “With increasing awareness about reproductive health and better access to fertility treatments, more and more couples are now opting for In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) with the hope of having a baby.” Though IVF represents a hopeful route to parenthood, it is important to note that IVF does not always work and needs to be taken with well-informed expectations.

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Understanding IVF Success Rates And Challenges

One of the most prevalent myths is the understanding that IVF ensures pregnancy in the first cycle, which consequently often translates into emotional turmoil and financial stress when expectations are not met. Dr. Shweta Mishra states, “IVF success is determined by several variables, such as age, egg and sperm quality, health of the uterus, and underlying medical issues.” The success rate is around 40 per cent for women aged below 35, but it falls drastically to 10–15 per cent for women aged above 40, even with modern technologies, as complications like a failed implant or embryo genetic abnormality may force couples to have to take multiple rounds of treatment.

What Couples Should Know Before IVF (Image Credits: Canva)

Building Strength For A Positive IVF Journey

Besides the medical complexity, the psychological and emotional burnout of IVF is often underrated. The physical stress of hormone shots, frequent checks, and the waiting game can be intensely mind-draining. Dr. Shweta Mishra states, “Furthermore, IVF also involves a massive cost, with each cycle costing between Rs 1.5 and Rs 2.5 lakhs.” The cost could skyrocket when multiple cycles are required, which is not an affordable luxury for most couples.

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To navigate the IVF journey more effectively, the couple must begin by having realistic expectations. A consultation with a good fertility specialist and acquainting oneself with the individual reproductive health conditions of each are important steps to take in the decision-making process. Psychological preparation is also very important, as guidance from counselors, families, or peer groups can help in stress management and psychological coping during the course of treatment.