IVF or in-vitro fertilization can be exciting yet daunting, say experts like Gynecologist in Islamabad. Before taking on IVF though, there are some things that women must know. Read on for the 7 things to know about in-vitro fertilization before undergoing it:
1. IVF is costly
The first thing to know about IVF is—it’s expensive. The whole procedure and the medication given with it, are going to cost a bundle. However, the cost is worth it in the end.
Most healthcare providers also recommend getting pre-implantation investigations like genetic screening. If the latter is included in your IVF cycle, you get to choose the gender of the baby, as well.
Patients can sometimes mistake the cost of the cycle as the cost of the whole treatment. One cycle includes: investigation like scans, collection of the egg, embryology and the transfer of embryo. Costs not included in one cycle are: medication, blood tests, and fee for the relevant experts. Individuals must also remember that more than one cycle of treatment may be needed before implantation occurs.
2. There are different types of IVFs available
Even though conventional IVF is the commonest technique available, it is not the only appropriate treatment. Less drug-intense forms of IVFs include: natural IVF and mild IVF.
Natural IVF is less intensive than conventional IVF as it does not rely on stimulating drugs. If need be, this form of IVF can be modified with only a few days of drug therapy. Mild IVF involves only five to ten days of drug therapy.
Such modified forms of IVF require less drugs, and are carried out without halting and restarting the menstrual cycle.
3. There may be side-effects
IVF is a procedure whereby the patient is riddled with hormones. It is, therefore, natural to assume it comes with side-effects. Along with the emotional side effects, there are physical side-effects as well, including: breast tenderness, bloating, pain in the abdomen and dizziness.
IVF can also cause Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) if the ovaries are overwhelmed by the ovulation inducing medication. This causes: shortness of breath, vomiting, nausea, severe pain and weight gain. You should discuss the potential side-effects with your healthcare provider.
4. Success rates for IVF may be misleading
Every couple has their own circumstances—and therefore success rates are misleading. Many healthcare providers do not recommend the procedure for high risk individuals like older women, women with low egg reserve, or someone with a genitourinary disease. For anyone with the aforementioned relevant factor, the success rates can be misleading, as it is not being considered by the healthcare provider.
5. Prepare for multiples
The likelihood of multiple pregnancies rises exponentially with IVF. This is due to the high dose of fertility drugs combined with the insemination procedure. Twins and triplets are common, while quadruplets are less common. Commonly, IVF experts put in more than one embryo in the womb to increase the chances of pregnancy and this increases the possibility of multiples. This practice is often done in difficult prognosis patients.
6. Find your support system
IVF is a nerve-racking journey. It is important during this time to have your support system. This includes help from your primary care provider, friends, family, therapist and even support groups. Reaching out to your support system in times of uncertainty can help you deal better with the procedure. It is important to remember that IVF significantly increases the chances of achieving a pregnancy, but there is yet no treatment available that guarantees results. Therefore, it’s important to approach IVF with an open mind. You can find more information about the procedure at oladoc.com.
