- By Priyanka Munshi
- Thu, 25 Jul 2024 08:58 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Do you know that in vitro fertilization (IVF) involves fusing eggs and sperm outside the body in a lab and placing the resultant embryos into the uterus? For women experiencing infertility due to a variety of causes, including blocked fallopian tubes, ovulation problems, or unexplained infertility, this procedure can be a ray of hope. Additionally, being aware of IVF gives women vital information about their reproductive options, enabling them to make well-informed decisions regarding family planning.
By understanding the costs, emotional elements, and probable success rates involved with IVF, women can be better prepared for what to expect during the treatment. It also emphasizes the importance of seeking medical guidance early and exploring fertility treatments as soon as possible, particularly since aging can affect fertility. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Mamatha CV, a consultant in fertility and IVF at Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Hebbal, in Bengaluru, discussed the five things every woman must know before opting for IVF treatment.
According to Dr. Mamatha, the prevalence of infertility globally has increased due to changing lifestyles, impacting approximately one in five couples. However, advancements in fertility treatments now provide hope for couples experiencing difficulties conceiving. In vitro fertilization (IVF) has emerged as a particularly effective solution, delivering positive outcomes even in challenging cases of infertility. Currently, the success rate of IVF in India is 35 to 40 percent.
IVF Is A Time-Taking Process:
IVF requires a lot of time and patience. You will need to communicate with your fertility care team regularly during the IVF procedure through phone conversations, messaging, and numerous doctor appointments. Additionally, you'll have to follow a rigorous drug schedule. IVF requires a lot of scheduling because appointments and injections can come up unexpectedly. To prevent feeling overburdened, try to free up as much time in your schedule as you can in advance. It is crucial that you inform your team of any travel plans you may have while organizing.
You Might Go Through A Few Physical Changes:
Fertility drugs will be used to stimulate your ovaries during your IVF cycle. As your follicles mature, these drugs may cause side effects such as bloating, cramps, moderate nausea, exhaustion, and minor headaches. Additionally, your fertility doctor may suggest temporary exercise restrictions and avoiding sexual activity during certain cycle times. Thankfully, none of these side effects or limitations last long.
You Might Feel Mentally Exhausted:
The emotional toll of IVF can be significant. The process involves waiting and uncertainty, which can lead to anxiety and stress. It's important to seek support from loved ones or mental health professionals to help manage the emotional aspects of the journey.
Also Read: Healthy And Protein-Rich Diets For HIV Patients To Boost Energy
IVF Is A Financial Commitment:
IVF is a cutting-edge fertility procedure with costs that reflect its complexity and success rates. Therefore, it is essential to choose a reproductive clinic that offers personalized treatment options based on your medical background and specific requirements. A reputable clinic will make your investment worthwhile by producing good results quickly and ensuring progress toward your goal of starting or growing a family.
IVF Might Need More Than One Attempt:
Unfortunately, IVF doesn't work for everyone, and getting pregnant may take more than one try. The odds of a healthy pregnancy can be increased by using alternatives such as donor eggs, sperm, or embryos from people who have finished having children and are donating their extra embryos. In situations where implantation or pregnancy maintenance prove problematic, gestational carriers may also be a viable option. These methods provide hope when chances are thought to be lower or when traditional IVF may not be successful.
Dr. Mamatha emphasized that success in fertility treatments such as IVF can be elusive and may take persistence across several rounds. It is a time-taking process, and navigating it requires extreme calm and patience.