In vitro fertilization is a type of assisted reproductive technology usually used in the treatment of infertility. IVF is done by harvesting egg and sperm and then manually combine them outside the womb in a laboratory. The fertilized egg or eggs are then transferred to the womb.

Many myths and misconceptions revolve around IVF. Here are some myths we need to stop believing about IVF.

Kids Conceived by IVF are different

Many studies have been performed on babies conceived by IVF to ensure its safety, and these studies show that babies conceived using this technology are no different than babies conceived in the usual way.

IVF Success is Guaranteed

Some believe that undergoing IVF is a sure way of becoming pregnant. The technology has improved and success rates have been increasing, but it is not always successful. Many factors can play a role in IVF success rates, such as age and reason for infertility.

You’ll Have Twins (or even more!)

IVF increases the risk of having a multiple pregnancy because usually more than one fertilized egg is implanted to increase success chances. This, however, does not mean that it will lead to having multiple birth.

IVF Makes You Crazy

IVF medications contain estrogen to increase egg production, and this can cause hormonal changes that cause moods swings in some women who take them. It can also cause irritability and sadness, but it certainly does not make a woman crazy!

IVF Is the Only Way to Overcome Infertility

IVF is usually used when other methods of infertility treatment have failed or when the reason for infertility cannot be established because everything seems normal, something called unexplained infertility. The treatment for infertility will depend on the individual and the reason for infertility.

Frozen Embryos Are Less Effective

Fertilized eggs are sometimes frozen to be used later if the first try was not successful so as not to put the woman into the hassle of taking fertility medications and undergo harvesting again. Frozen eggs can actually improve pregnancy outcomes and lessen the chance of premature delivery and low birth weights.

IVF is Only for Couples with Infertility

IVF is not only an option for couples who have been trying to conceive with no luck. IVF can also be used in a type of genetic testing to ensure that a baby has no genetic disorder passed from the parents. Men or women who have a genetic disorder that may be passed to their children can have preimplantation genetic testing. This procedure is done similarly to IVF, but the fertilized eggs are screened for genetic disorders before implantation. If the fertilized eggs do not show signs of a genetic disorder, they can be used for implantation in the womb.