Top 10 Questions Patients Ask About IVF

Infertility can be an emotionally challenging journey, and when IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) becomes a consideration, many prospective patients have numerous questions. At KMCH Fertility Center, we believe that informed patients make better decisions about their reproductive health. We've compiled the top 10 questions our patients ask about IVF, along with comprehensive answers to help you understand this life-changing procedure.

Whether you're in the early stages of exploring IVF or actively considering treatment, this guide will provide clarity on what to expect, costs involved, success rates, and important considerations before beginning your fertility journey.

_{Top 10 Questions About IVF - Quick Guide by KMCH Fertility Center}

1. What is IVF and How Does It Work?

IVF is a procedure where eggs are retrieved from ovaries, fertilized with sperm in a lab, and the resulting embryos are transferred into the uterus. The process involves five steps: ovarian stimulation (8-14 days), egg retrieval, fertilization, embryo culture (3-5 days), and embryo transfer.

2. What Are the Success Rates for IVF?

Success rates depend on age and factors like egg quality. Women under 35 have success rates around 40-50% per cycle. Rates decline with age—women over 40 see rates around 10-20%. Multiple cycles increase cumulative success. Genetic embryo screening (PGT) improves outcomes significantly.

3. How Much Does IVF Cost?

In India, basic IVF costs ₹1,50,000 - ₹3,00,000. With ICSI: ₹2,00,000 - ₹3,50,000. With genetic testing: ₹2,50,000 - ₹4,00,000. Additional costs include medications, donor eggs (₹1,00,000-₹3,00,000), and embryo freezing (₹20,000-₹50,000/year). Many clinics offer flexible payment plans.

4. How Long Does IVF Take?

Pre-treatment assessments: 2-4 weeks. Stimulation phase: 8-14 days. Egg retrieval to embryo transfer: 3-5 days (fresh) or 2-3 months (frozen). Pregnancy test: 10-12 days after transfer. Total time for one cycle: 4-6 weeks.

5. What Are the Risks and Side Effects?

Common side effects: bloating, headaches, mood changes, mild nausea, and fatigue (usually temporary). Moderate risks include ovarian hyperstimulation (OHSS) in 5-10% of patients. Severe OHSS requiring hospitalization occurs in less than 1% of cases. Serious risks are rare.

6. Does IVF Increase Birth Defects or Cancer Risk?

No. Multiple studies confirm IVF does not increase birth defects compared to natural conception. Both have similar rates (2-3% for major birth defects). IVF medications have no proven link to cancer after 30+ years of research. In fact, pregnancy achieved through IVF provides protective benefits against ovarian cancer.

7. Fresh vs. Frozen Embryo Transfer—Which Is Better?

Fresh Transfer:

Faster (pregnancy test in 10-12 days), no thawing risk. Success rates: 40-45%.

Frozen Transfer:

Higher success rates (50-55%), allows time for genetic testing, lower OHSS risk. Takes longer but safer. Modern practice often recommends freeze-all protocols for better outcomes.

8. How Do I Prepare for IVF?

Get comprehensive testing: hormone levels, egg reserve (AMH), pelvic ultrasound, and infectious disease screening. Improve lifestyle: quit smoking, limit alcohol, maintain healthy weight, exercise moderately, eat balanced diet, reduce stress, and take prenatal vitamins. Discuss all medications with your doctor.

9. What If IVF Doesn't Work?

Options include: repeat IVF cycle (most common), genetic embryo testing, different hormone protocol, donor eggs, donor sperm, surrogacy, adoption, or taking a break. Analysis of what happened guides next steps. Most patients achieve pregnancy within

2-3 cycles.

10. Is Support Available During IVF?

Yes. KMCH Fertility Center provides: fertility counseling, support groups, 24/7 patient support, mental health services, partner support, and pregnancy guidance. Support helps manage stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges throughout the journey.

Conclusion

IVF represents hope for millions of couples and individuals struggling with infertility. While the process involves medical procedures, costs, and emotional investment, it offers excellent chances of achieving pregnancy and parenthood.

_Disclaimer:

_{This is general information. Please consult our fertility specialists for personalized medical advice.}