Five Common Misconceptions about IVF

Often, having a baby isn’t easy. Many people struggle to get pregnant, and it takes bravery to reach out for help. If you’re coming across fertility challenges while trying to grow your family, you might be considering whether you are a candidate for IVF treatment. Monash IVF have been at the forefront of pioneering reproductive technological advancements for nearly 50 years–we were the first program in the world to successfully impregnate an embryo via IVF back in 1973. We know that there is a lot of confusing information to sift through when considering assisted reproductive technology. In this article, we debunk some of the most common myths about the IVF process.

1. It’s the only option

It’s a common misconception that IVF is the main solution for couples struggling to conceive. This isn’t true. There are simple options such as help with ovulation where medically indicated.

What is IVF, exactly? IVF stands for “in vitro fertilisation,” a process where healthy eggs and sperm are combined in a lab for the increased chance of a successful pregnancy. It’s a powerful procedure that has produced results for many families. But it’s not the only option. There are a number of other highly successful treatments that assist with pregnancy, such as ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injections), IUI (assisted insemination), and using donor eggs or donor sperm. All of these options are tailored to different pregnancy hurdles. Monash IVF’s team of experts will guide you through a fertility treatment plan tailored to your unique circumstances.

2. It’s all out-of-pocket costs

Understandably, people often have questions about the costs of fertility treatment. It’s important to remember that treatment is not all out-of-pocket–you do not have to cover the entirety of IVF cost in Australia. Medicare and private healthcare (if you have it) will subsidise part of the expenses. You can find a detailed breakdown of Monash IVF treatment costs and available rebates here.

3. Everyone should freeze their eggs

Age limit and fertility preservation costs are two key topics in the growing conversation about women freezing their eggs. Freezing eggs isn’t necessarily for everyone. However, you might be enjoying your career, or maybe you haven’t found the right person yet. Ultimately, if you’re in a position to freeze your eggs, the younger you do it the better. It’s hard to put a price on your own biological child.

4. IVF causes multiple pregnancies

In the past, doctors would transfer multiple embryos in the hope of pregnancy, significantly increasing the chances of a mother having twins or even triplets. Now, technological advancements mean that we have much more precise understanding of which embryos have the best chance. At Monash IVF, it’s most common practice to transfer one embryo at a time, freezing remaining embryos for potential later treatment. This means your chance of falling pregnant with multiple babies is much lower than in the past.

5. It’s practically impossible to find a donor

The question of how to get a sperm donor comes up frequently at Monash IVF, especially for couples in same-sex relationships. It is more than possible to find a donor – do not lose hope. Our team has connections with international sperm banks and recruit local donors, and are here to support you find healthy sperm.

Free Nurse Chats with Monash IVF

It’s easy to get stuck in the mire of misconception and miscommunication. That’s why it’s crucial to turn to organisations you can trust. The doctors, nurses, and counsellors at Monash IVF are experienced, dynamic, and globally respected fertility experts dedicated to helping our patients conceive.

We’re here to empower you, sharing our knowledge through education so you can make confident decisions about your reproductive health. That’s why we offer free nurse chats for anyone who wants to come in and discuss their fertility options.

Get in touch hereto make an appointment with one of our friendly nurses.