20 Common Questions About IVF

Introduction

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) has helped millions of couples around the world achieve their dream of parenthood. Yet, for those just beginning the journey, IVF can seem overwhelming. What does it involve? Is it painful? What are the chances of success?

To help you feel more informed and confident, here are answers to 20 of the most frequently asked questions about IVF.

1. What is IVF?

IVF stands for in vitro fertilisation. It is a fertility treatment where a woman’s eggs are retrieved from the body and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory. The fertilised eggs (embryos) are then monitored and the healthiest one(s) are transferred into the uterus. IVF is commonly used when natural conception fails due to various medical conditions or unexplained infertility.

2. Who is IVF recommended for?

IVF is suitable for a wide range of fertility issues. It is often recommended for women with blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, men with low sperm count or motility, endometriosis, or couples with unexplained infertility, or when other treatments like ovulation induction or IUI has been unsuccessful. It is also an option for couples who require donor sperm or eggs to achieve a pregnancy.

3. How long does one IVF cycle take?

After the initial consultations, the actual IVF cycle starts with hormonal stimulation which takes 12-14 days up to egg retrieval. If embryo transfer is planned in the same cycle, it takes another 3–5 days. If embryo transfer is planned in a subsequent cycle, it usually takes about 20 days from the beginning of the period. A pregnancy test is usually done about 12-14 days after the transfer. 

4. Is IVF painful?

While IVF involves a series of steps, most cause only mild discomfort. Hormonal injections may cause minor discomfort or bruising. Egg retrieval is performed under sedation or anaesthesia, making it pain-free, though mild cramping may follow. Embryo transfer is a simple procedure similar to a pap smear and is generally painless.

5. What are the success rates of IVF?

IVF success rates depend on several factors including age, cause of infertility, and clinic expertise. On average:

 

• • Women under 35: 35–60% success per cycle

• • Women aged 35–40: Around 10-35%

• • Women over 40: 5-10%
    Success also depends on the quality of the embryos and uterine health. Multiple attempts may increase cumulative success.

6. What is the cost of IVF in India?

The cost of one IVF cycle in India typically ranges from ₹1.2 to ₹2.5 lakhs depending on the age and egg reserve of the woman. This includes scans, consultations, hormone injections, and lab procedures. Additional charges may apply for advanced techniques like ICSI, blastocyst culture, l lo embryo freezing, or using donor eggs/sperm. It’s important to discuss all potential costs with your clinic in advance.

7. Can IVF guarantee pregnancy?

No, IVF gives the highest chance of pregnancy compared to other infertility treatments, but does not guarantee it. Success depends on various factors like age, weight, egg/sperm quality, uterine environment, and overall health. Some couples may achieve success in the first cycle, while others may require two or more attempts.

8. Are IVF babies healthy?

Yes. Numerous studies have shown that IVF babies are just as healthy as those conceived naturally. While there may be a slightly increased risk of certain complications, these are generally linked to the underlying cause of infertility or maternal age rather than the IVF process itself.

9. Is there an age limit for IVF?

The legal age limit for undergoing IVF treatment in India is 21 to 50 years for women and 21 to 55 years for men.

10. How many embryos are transferred during IVF?

Typically, one or two embryos are transferred per cycle. Single embryo transfer (SET) is increasingly preferred, especially in younger women, to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancies. The decision depends on embryo quality, patient age, and prior treatment history.

11. Can IVF be done with donor eggs or sperm?

Yes. Donor eggs, sperm, or embryos are used when either partner or both have fertility issues that make conception with their own gametes difficult. Donors are screened for health, genetic conditions, and infectious diseases, ensuring a safe and ethical treatment.

12. What is the difference between IUI and IVF?

IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) is a simpler process where washed sperm are directly placed into the uterus around the time of ovulation. IVF, on the other hand, involves retrieving the eggs from the female and fertilising them outside the body. The resulting embryos are then transferred into the uterus. 

13. Are there any side effects of IVF?

Side effects vary among individuals. Common side effects of hormone injections used for stimulation include headache, bloating, breast tenderness, and mild pelvic discomfort. Rare complications include Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), which requires medical attention. Emotional ups and downs are also common during treatment.

14. Can IVF result in twins or triplets?

Yes. If more than one embryo is transferred, there is a chance of multiple pregnancy. However, modern IVF practices aim for single embryo transfers to reduce risks to both the mother and babies. Twins or triplets increase the likelihood of complications like preterm birth and low birth weight.

15. Can IVF be customised for each patient?

Absolutely. IVF protocols can be tailored to each individual or couple based on their age, hormonal levels, egg reserve, medical history, and prior response to treatment. Clinics like Kamna Fertility specialise in creating personalised plans for better outcomes.

16. What happens to unused embryos?

Unused embryos can be frozen (cryopreserved) for future use, or for research, or discarded based on the couple’s decision. Frozen embryos offer flexibility and may be used in later cycles without repeating the full IVF process.

17. Is bed rest needed after embryo transfer?

Contrary to popular belief, extended bed rest is not necessary. Patients are advised to rest briefly after the transfer, and resume normal activities from the next day. Strenuous activity and exercise should be avoided. In fact, excessive rest may lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety, and reduce the chances of live birth.

18. Can stress affect IVF success?

Yes, high levels of stress can affect hormone levels, menstrual cycles, and overall reproductive function. Many fertility clinics now offer counselling, yoga, and meditation sessions to support patients.

19. How many IVF attempts are safe?

There is no fixed limit, but generally 3–4 well-spaced IVF cycles are considered reasonable. Success rates typically drop after multiple failed cycles. Couples should also consider emotional, physical, and financial readiness before proceeding with further attempts.

20. When should you consider IVF?

IVF may be considered in couple with:

 

• • Blocked fallopian tubes

• • Severe male factor

• • Severe endometriosis 

• • Unexplained infertility 

• • When other fertility treatments have failed

• • If you require donor eggs, sperm, or embryos

Early consultation with a fertility specialist can save time and reduce the time to live birth.

Conclusion

IVF is a powerful fertility treatment, but like all treatments, it comes with concerns, queries, and dilemmas. The more you understand, the more empowered you become.

If you are considering IVF, speak with a qualified fertility specialist who can guide you with personalised care. At Kamna Fertility, we believe that every couple deserves clarity, compassion, and guidance on their fertility journey.