Investing in In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is not only a serious financial decision, but an emotional one as well. On top of the physical stresses of undergoing this procedure, you are bombarded with tonnes of information about the treatment. It’s important, both clinically and psychologically, to know what the most important facts are and how to increase your chance of success.
Before starting embarking on your own pregnancy journey, it’s important to ask yourself five very important questions. Here’s what you need to know:
Is my uterus ready?
Your uterine cavity should be evaluated for any blockages or issues that would act like an intrauterine device (IUD) and prevent implantation. This includes abnormalities such as scars, fibroids and polyps. Simply getting an X-ray will provide enough information to help you determine which issues you may potentially have.
Will my lifestyle affect my chances of falling pregnant?
It is important to discuss your lifestyle with your doctor. Your diet and habits, such as smoking or recreational drug or alcohol use, all have major influences on the hormones your body produces. They can also affect the success of any kind of artificial insemination procedure you undergo. Talking to your health care practitioner about the best medication, supplements and herbal remedies can go a long way in helping you to conceive.
Do I have enough eggs?
One of the key elements to IVF success is a good ovarian reserve. Blood tests are useful in analysing the level of follicle stimulation occurring in your body, and an ultrasound will quantify actual follicle count.
What does the IVF procedure entail?
There are two main IVF treatment phases. The first is a short one, known as an antagonist cycle. This takes four weeks with treatment commencing on the first day of a woman’s period. After this phase commences, it’s time for the next step. This takes about five weeks with hormone suppression and starts on day 22 of a woman’s cycle, the embryo is transferred. Two weeks after this, you can take ablood test to confirm pregnancy.
Recent studies in the U.S. show the general success rate with IVF. These numbers are increasing on a yearly basis, as more research is done on artificial reproduction techniques.
IVF success rates with fresh embryos
- Women under 35: 46.3 %
- Women 35-37: 38.4 %
- Women 38-40: 27.5 %
IVF success rates with frozen embryos
- Women under 35: 39.3 %
- Women 35-37: 35.7 %
- Women 38-40: 30.3 %
These numbers are just a guideline to IVF success rates. It is important to remember that the cost of this procedure is not just restricted to financial implications, but has physical and emotional ones as well. Once you have spoken to your doctor and have developed realistic expectations, you can take the first life-changing step to creating the family you’ve always wanted.
