IVF is one of the most fascinating discoveries ofthe 20th century. Nobel prize in medicine was awarded toSir Robert GEdwards in 2010 for this amazing discovery.  It has been about 40 yearssince the birth of the first child through IVF. Over 4 million people owe theirexistence to IVF. Despite this, many people are not convinced with thisconcept. I have listed a few Misconceptions along with their explanation.

1.       IVF injections cause cancer.

          All the injections which are given are eliminatedfrom the body within one month. There have been numerous studies till datewhich have proven that the gonadotropin injections do not cause cancer. Howevera small risk of borderline ovarian tumours are noted, which have excellent prognosiswith preservation of fertility. An oocyte donor can donate eggs for up to 6cycles safely!

2.       The medications take away all eggs and result in early menopause.

          Normally a group of follicles containing eggs beginto grow at the beginning of a menstrual cycle. Only 1 egg matures enough and is released from the ovary. The remaining degenerate. In IVF, these injections rescue the degenerating eggs and stimulate them to reach maturity. As a result,the age of menopause is not affected.

3.       Babies born through IVF are not normal physicallyand mentally.

          2% of the babies conceived naturally are born withsome malformation. Similarly about 2-3% of babies born through IVF are with malformations. Most of the abnormal embryos do not implant in the uterus and grow.

4.       IVF results in twins and higher order pregnancies.

          We can limit the number of embryos transferred intothe uterus and hence prevent multiple pregnancies. In other treatment options such as ovarian stimulation and IUI, all the eggs that are released are capable of being fertilized. Hence, we have no control over the rate of multiple pregnancy.

5.       After IVF treatment, complete bed rest is required.

          Both the egg retrieval and embryo transfer are daycare procedures, requiring an admission of 3-4 hours. It is advisable to avoid strenuous physical activity of any sort, however there is no evidence that complete bed rest favours embryo implantation. Routine activities can very well be carried out without affecting pregnancy rates.