Around the world, people trying to Get pregnant have found success with in vitro fertilization, or IVF. IVF is essentially a series of treatments that help make sperm fertilization and egg implantation more likely to occur. Although the entire process requires a series of steps that can take a number of months to complete, including taking medication that helps mature your eggs, fertilizing the eggs and implanting them in the uterus, the treatment is a common option for people looking to up their odds of a successful pregnancy. It’s also worth noting, though, that you may need more than one round, and because no two bodies are exactly alike, it’s difficult to predict results ahead of time. You can, however, arm yourself with a deep understanding of IVF that may prove helpful if you choose to move forward with it.
Fertility Issues Are the Most Common Motivation
By and large, the most common motivation for deciding to undergo IVF treatment is addressing fertility issues. For instance, some couples who struggle to, or who cannot, conceive naturally may opt for IVF as an alternative solution. Because it works by taking an already fertilized egg and inserting it directly, it can increase the chances of an embryo successfully implanting into the recipient’s uterus lining. Although success is not guaranteed, the high-tech approach and success stories for overcoming fertility problems are a frequent draw for those trying to conceive.
You’ll Go Through Several Steps
As mentioned, IVF is a treatment process that requires a series of sequential steps, and so the process as a whole can sometimes take several months. What you may not have been aware of, however, is that during the treatment period, you’ll probably be getting to know your doctor pretty well. IVF patients typically visit their physicians to make sure everything is on track on a weekly, if not daily, basis. Visits can include doing everything from diagnostic ultrasounds to taking simple blood work. The steps themselves are straightforward, but it’s critical to be prepared for regular stops by the doctor’s office as well.
Treatment Hormones May Cause Various Side Effects
Many IVF patients for whom treatment has resulted in successful pregnancy would argue that any side effects experienced during treatment are more than worth it, but you should be aware that various side effects are a possibility due to hormone fluctuations. Some of these side effects may be purely physical, such as cramping, weight gain or tenderness in the breasts. In other cases, patients may simply feel heightened emotions during treatment. Be aware of symptoms of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, or OHSS, which can include nausea and dizziness. OHSS is not uncommon and usually goes away on its own, but be prepared to call your doctor just in case.
Health Prior to Treatment Makes a Difference
If you’re seriously considering starting treatment, discuss your health record with your doctor to determine whether your health is in good enough shape to qualify. Everyone’s physicality is different, but in broad strokes, the better your health is prior to beginning treatment, the better you set yourself up for the process itself. Being in good health includes stopping smoking if that’s a habit, eating a nutritious diet, cutting back on or eliminating alcohol and getting your weight to a number appropriate for your height and age.
As an increasingly common choice for people trying to conceive, IVF offers the chance to increase pregnancy odds. However, its relatively lengthy time table and multiple steps involved merit a deeper understanding of the process prior to booking your first doctor’s appointment for it. When you’re trying to get pregnant and the question of pursuing IVF treatment is on your mind, you can draw on this knowledge to help you understand all sides of the issue and make fully cognizant choices for you and your family’s future.