Normally, fertilization occurs inside a woman’s body when the sperm attaches to and enters the egg; this is called natural or unassisted conception. Usually, before trying out in vitro fertilization, Dr. Kevin Doody Bedford may recommend less invasive treatment options, including fertility drugs or intrauterine insemination. But sometimes, IVF is offered as a primary treatment for infertility for women above the reproductive years, usually over age 40.
In vitro fertilization is a big step, and a lot of information is available that can make it confusing for you to decide. The best way to make an informed decision is by consulting your specialist to understand the procedure and what it entails. But before then, read the following facts to have more insight into IVF.
Your age influences the success of IVF
You already know that your eggs decline in number and quality as you age. IVF success rate is higher in younger women in their 20s than in their late 30s and 40s. But still, many women think of IVF as the magic solution, whereby you create an embryo, transfer it to the uterus, and get pregnant. As mentioned above, there is a sharp decline in success rates of women younger women to older ones. For this reason, specialists recommend that older women consider using a donor egg after multiple failed IVF cycles of using their eggs.
You may need multiple IVF rounds
In most cases, couples go through several IVF cycles to get pregnant. Knowing this beforehand is important so you can think outside the box. For example, after failing multiple IVF rounds, you may consider using donor eggs, sperms, embryos, or a gestational carrier. Learn about other options, so you don’t run ragged, fixating on traditional IVF. Your fertility specialist will suggest an alternative method that you can use based on your diagnosis and fertility history.
The process can take a toll on your mental and emotional health
As mentioned above, it is anomalous for couples to come in, get diagnosed and get pregnant through IVF in the first round. Most couples undergo three IVF rounds or more before they are successful in their journey. The process can be emotionally and mentally draining; you may worry about the possible outcomes and what that means for you and your partner. Fertility treatments may also interfere with your relationships.
You can make the process a bit easier for you and your partner by joining an infertility support group ahead of time. Working with an infertility therapist can also help you manage your emotions better. Consider reading the various infertility blogs available; give yourself all the support you need and deserve.
Partners suffer as well
Besides offering support, partners of women undergoing IVF also suffer. Far too unnoticed and unaddressed is that the husbands, co-parents, or partners also suffer emotionally and mentally. As mentioned above, it is best to find the support you need, whether you are undergoing IVF or supporting someone. Find a safe space where you can share your emotional struggles instead of suffering in silence. In the meantime, do all you can to keep the sparkle in your relationship alive.
If you have questions about in vitro fertilization, consult your specialist at Effortless IVF.
