Common Myths About IVF and Infertility Treatments

Although infertility affects millions of couples globally, many people are unwilling to pursue treatment due to myths about IVF. Believing the misrepresentation of the facts about infertility treatment and IVF can cause parenthood journeys to be stressful and protracted. By busting myths related to infertility treatment, women and couples will have the choices that are best for them and be empowered to pursue the right options.

For accurate IVF Facts and Myths, clarity, intervention, and compassionate care, visit Dubai & Sharjah’s best female gynecologist, Dr. Mona Saad, who specializes in women’s reproductive health and holistic fertility solutions.

Myth 1: IVF is the Only Treatment for Infertility

One of the most infertility treatment myths is that it is the only option.
Reality: There are many causes of infertility. IVF is but one of several options. Depending on their diagnosis, infertility treatment for patients can include:

• Medications to assist with ovulation regulation or hormonal imbalance.
• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) as a less invasive start.
• Minor surgical intervention to remove blockages or repair reproductive abnormalities.
• Lifestyle changes to improve fertility naturally.

It is most common that patients are recommended IVF only after other infertility treatment options have been pursued.

Myth 2: IVF is Always Successful the First Time

A common myth is that once you start IVF, you will automatically have a baby quickly.
Reality: While IVF has helped millions of people get pregnant, it does not guarantee pregnancy on the first attempt. There are a number of things that can affect the overall success of IVF, and many vary from person to person, and include:

• The woman’s age (higher success rates for women under the age of 35)
• The cause of infertility (for example: tubal issues, ovulation issues or sperm quality)
• The overall health of both partners
• The expertise of the specialist and the laboratory conditions

Some couples may conceive on their first cycle, but other couples may need more than one cycle to conceive.

Myth 3: Infertility is Always a Woman’s Issue

There is a common belief that infertility challenges only occur for women.
Reality: Male infertility is responsible for almost 40-50% of cases. The list of male-related issues can include:

• Low sperm count
• Poor sperm motility
• Structural or hormonal problems
• Lifestyle issues such as smoking, alcohol, obesity

Successful treatments require looking at the health of both partners, not just the women.

Myth 4: IVF Is Unsafe for Mother and Baby

Safety concerns rate high on the list of Misconceptions About IVF and Fertility.
Reality: Modern medicine provides an excellent safety profile for IVF, as long as it is performed by experts. The risks of IVF are very low in the hands of an excellent, caring professional, like the great obstetric specialists in Dubai & Sharjah.
Key points:

• Babies born from IVF are no less healthy than naturally conceived babies
• The risks associated with IVF (multiple pregnancies, OHSS- ovarian hyperstimulation etc.) are sufficiently rare while under the supervision of qualified medical personnel

Treatment is customised to each individual’s needs, which greatly reduces the possibility of complications.

Myth 5: Infertility Treatments Are Always Expensive!

Despite the hopeful message that these myth-busters provide, many couples do not take the next step in exploring their treatment options because they assume it is too expensive.
Reality: IVF is costly; however not all infertility cases require IVF, and there may be many options that are far more economical.
Less expensive infertility treatment options may include:

• Fertility medications
• Simple surgical correction
• I.C.S.I. (Intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection)
• I.U.I. ( Intrauterine insemination)

Even if an IVF cycle is suggested, costs will vary from clinic to clinic, location, and number of procedures suggested.

Myth 6: IVF Always Leads to Multiple Pregnancies

Another misconception surrounding IVF and fertility is that it always results in twins or triplets.
Reality: New advancements allow doctors to be very specific about how many embryos they transfer into the woman. They can also carry out a single embryo transfer that is still successful in terms of the high rates for IVF success, yet decreases the chances for a multiple pregnancy.

Myth 7: IVF Involves Donor Eggs or Sperm by Default

There can also be IVF Myths & Misconceptions that it always involves donor gametes.
Reality: The majority of the time, couples will use their own sperm and eggs. Donor eggs or sperm are usually recommendations based on severe issues related to:

• Low ovarian reserve
• Genetic disorders
• Extremely poor sperm results

These options are discussed and consented to after discussions between the physician and couple.

Myth 8: IVF Is Complicated and Painful

One of the biggest deterrents is the fear of undergoing any form of medical procedure at all.
Reality: While there are multiple steps in IVF, it is easy a physician will tell you that it is meticulous. Advances being made are allowing the process to be safe, relatively painless, and perhaps a little more manageable than what couples expect.
Although the steps to IVF change depending on the circumstances or clinic, typical steps would be:

• Controlled ovarian stimulation
• Egg retrieval under mild anesthesia
• Fertilization in the lab
• Embryo transfer, which is a simple and painless procedure

Why You Should Care About Choosing the Right Specialist

When fighting myths and doubts, the doctor makes all the difference. Dr. Mona Saad, the best female gynecologist in Dubai & Sharjah, guarantees that couples receive:

• Accurate assessments to determine the underlying cause of their infertility
• Clarity about the treatment options available
• Compassionate support every step of the way

Safe and evidence-based procedures that prioritize both the mother and baby
Her experience as the best obstetrician in Dubai & Sharjah reassures couples and allows them to be confident in their fertility journey.

Final Thoughts

Fertility treatments are based on a lot of myths that can leave families feeling discouraged. Being aware of the myths & misconceptions of IVF helps families be able to benefit from modern treatments without fear. With help from Dr. Mona Saad, patients can gain awareness and be confident that they are receiving safe and effective fertility treatments customized to their individual concerns.
If you are struggling with infertility, do not let myths discourage you, seek help from an expert now.

Commonly Asked Questions

1. Is IVF the only type of treatment available for infertility?
No, IVF is a pregnancy option. There are medications, IUI, or minor surgical options as well.

2. What are the most common myths or misbeliefs held about IVF and fertility?
That it always works the first time, that it is not safe, and that it is the only way to achieve pregnancy when infertility is involved.

3. Can IVF be required for male infertility?
Yes, male factor infertility makes up nearly 50% of infertility cases and more advanced treatments may be needed.

4. Why would I want to see Dr. Mona Saad for infertility treatment?
She is, quite simply, the best female gynecologist in Dubai & Sharjah and is an expert at diagnosing fertility issues and offering individualized fertility solutions.

5. Is IVF affordable for most couples?
Not all infertility treatments are IVF. Fortunately, there are several inexpensive options, and individualized care will allow this approach to be prescribed in your case.

6. How safe is IVF now?
IVF is safe for the mother and the baby under the supervision of the best obstetrician in Dubai & Sharjah.

7. When should a couple seek medical help for infertility?
If you have been trying for more than 12 months (6 months if you are over the age of 35), then you should see a fertility specialist as soon as you can.