More than 40 years since the very first IVF baby was born, this advanced reproductive technology has changed the landscape of the medical world. IVF has over the years broken stereotypical barriers and made dreams of conceiving a child possible. The technology has become popular among couples, who have shown the will to understand the benefits this technique provides.
“There is some common misinformation around IVF that persists, and it can have a startling impact on the minds of the couples wanting to conceive naturally,” says Dubai-based IVF consultant Dr Gautam Allahbadia (www.mmcivf.com).
Debunked below are some of the most common myths about IVF
IVF and multiple pregnancies
The procedure followed under IVF only multiplies your chances of becoming pregnant with a single viable embryo, which has been successfully fertilized. By transferring more than one embryo at the time of IVF, the chances of miscarriage, labor complications and premature birth increase significantly. Therefore, It is falsely presumed that with multiple embryos transferred, multiple pregnancies would occur.
IVF and risk of cancer
Cancer is one of the major concerns when considering an IVF reproductive technology. But there is no scientific proof suggesting that the chances of ovarian and breast cancer increase when opting for IVF or any other treatment for infertility. “This myth robustly caught wind because the medications commonly prescribed to develop mature eggs cause a stir in progesterone and estrogen levels,” explains Dr. Allahbadia, who heads the IVF team at Millennium Medical Centre (MMC), Dubai.
Unhealthy baby
Increased risk of birth defects, development delay, and low birth weight are among the reasons couples refrain from opting for IVF. But studies continue to affirm that a very low number of babies are actually born with such conditions. And, there is no real evidence to support the claim that problems persist because of the use of reproductive technology.
There is no increased risk of birth defects even with severe male infertility explains Dr. GautamAllahbadia.
Body weight
Body weight plays a vital role in the overall health of an individual. And while it is preferable for you and your baby’s health to maintain correct BMI, it has nothing to do with conceiving a baby. The eggs retrieved, number of suitable embryos, fertilized eggs and pregnancy rates remain unaffected by the body weight.
IVF reproductive technology for a couple wanting to embrace parenthood, is one of the best ways to fulfill their desire. Also, as disheartening as it is to see infertility rates rise, the development in the field of IVF is nothing less than a blessing in disguise.
