For couples trying to conceive, few words carry as much hope—and uncertainty—as IVF. In vitro fertilisation has helped many people build families, but it is also surrounded by misconceptions. Questions about success rates, pain, pregnancy outcomes, age, multiple pregnancies and whether IVF is the “last resort” can make an already emotional journey more confusing.
Understanding what IVF actually involves can help couples make informed decisions with their fertility specialist rather than relying on assumptions or stories from others.
What Is IVF?
In vitro fertilisation, commonly known as IVF, is an assisted reproductive treatment in which eggs are collected from the ovaries and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryo is then transferred into the uterus, where it may implant and develop into a pregnancy. Depending on the individual situation, embryos may also be frozen for future use.
IVF may be considered for different fertility problems, including certain problems involving the fallopian tubes, ovulation, sperm, endometriosis or unexplained infertility. The most appropriate treatment depends on the cause of infertility, the couple's medical history, age and individual circumstances.
Myth 1: IVF Guarantees Pregnancy
Fact: IVF can improve the chances of pregnancy for people experiencing infertility, but it does not guarantee a pregnancy or live birth.
Success can vary considerably between individuals and depends on factors such as age, the cause of infertility, reproductive history and other health and lifestyle factors. This is why fertility specialists generally discuss expected outcomes based on the individual's circumstances rather than promising a particular result.
It is also important to understand that an IVF cycle involves several stages. Not every egg will fertilise, not every fertilised egg will develop into an embryo suitable for transfer, not every embryo transferred will implant and not every implant embryo will result in live birth.
Myth 2: IVF Is Only for Women
Fact: Fertility problems can affect either partner, and IVF may be recommended when male-factor infertility is involved.
Male fertility can be affected by factors such as low sperm count, reduced sperm movement or other problems (such as abnormal genetic material of the sperm)with sperm production or delivery. Depending on the situation, treatment may include medicines, surgery, sperm retrieval or assisted reproductive techniques. A procedure called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be considered in specific circumstances, particularly when sperm-related problems or previous fertilisation failure are present.
For this reason, fertility evaluation is generally a process involving both partners rather than placing the focus only on the woman.
Myth 3: IVF Is Always the First Treatment for Infertility
Fact: IVF is one of several fertility treatment options.
Depending on the cause of infertility, treatment may include simple lifestyle modification, medication, surgery, timed intercourse, ovulation induction or intrauterine insemination (IUI). IVF may be recommended when other approaches are unlikely to be effective, have not worked, or when the underlying fertility problem makes IVF a more appropriate option.
The right treatment is therefore not determined simply by how long a couple has been trying. A fertility assessment helps identify possible causes and determine which approach makes the most sense.
Myth 4: IVF Means You Will Have Twins or Triplets
Fact: IVF does not automatically mean a multiple pregnancy.
Multiple pregnancy can occur when more than one embryo implants, and it carries additional health risks for both the mother and babies. Modern fertility practice therefore places considerable emphasis on reducing unnecessary multiple pregnancies, including the appropriate use of single-embryo transfer in suitable patients.
The number of embryos recommended for transfer depends on factors such as age, embryo characteristics, treatment history and clinical circumstances. The goal is not simply to transfer more embryos, but to achieve a healthy pregnancy while minimising avoidable risks.
Myth 5: IVF Means the Baby Will Not Be Healthy
Fact: IVF is a well-established fertility treatment, and most babies born through IVF are healthy.
Like any medical treatment, IVF has potential risks. These can include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), multiple pregnancy and ectopic pregnancy. However, IVF has been extensively studied, and advances in fertility care have improved its safety.
It is also important to remember that some risks associated with pregnancy after fertility treatment may be influenced by factors such as the underlying cause of infertility, maternal age and existing health conditions—not simply by IVF itself.
Myth 6: Age Does Not Matter If You Choose IVF
Fact: Age remains an important factor in fertility, even when IVF is used.
IVF can help overcome certain barriers to conception, but it cannot completely eliminate the effects of reproductive ageing. A woman's age can influence the number and quality of eggs available and therefore affect the chances of successful treatment. Other factors, including the cause of infertility and overall health, also matter.
This is why couples should consider seeking fertility advice rather than postponing evaluation based on the assumption that IVF can overcome every age-related fertility challenge.
Myth 7: One IVF Cycle Is Always Enough
Fact: Some couples conceive during their first IVF cycle, while others may need more than one attempt.
There are several stages between collecting eggs and achieving a pregnancy. Not every egg fertilises, and not every embryo develops or implants. Consequently, one treatment cycle cannot guarantee a successful pregnancy.
If the first attempt is unsuccessful, the fertility team may review the response to treatment, embryo development and other relevant factors before discussing the next steps.
IVF Is a Personal Journey
Every couple's fertility journey is different. The decision to undergo IVF should ideally be based on a proper medical evaluation, the cause of infertility, age, previous treatment history, personal preferences and an understanding of the potential benefits and risks.
For couples considering IVF, asking questions is an important part of the process. Understanding the treatment plan, expected outcomes, possible risks and available alternatives can make the journey more informed and less overwhelming.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an IVF cycle take?
The timeline varies depending on the treatment protocol, medications, ovarian response and whether a fresh or frozen embryo transfer is planned. Your fertility specialist can provide a more specific timeline based on your treatment plan.
Can embryos be frozen after IVF?
Yes. Embryos that are suitable for freezing can be preserved for possible use in a future treatment cycle. Frozen embryo transfer may be considered depending on the individual treatment plan.
Does IVF affect the baby's gender?
IVF itself does not determine a baby's sex. Genetic testing of embryos can sometimes identify chromosomal or genetic information, but whether such testing is appropriate or permitted depends on the medical indication and applicable laws and regulations.
