With IVF gaining popularity, research is also on to improve the process of IVF per se to reduce its associated risks and complications. With birth defects and miscarriages being common with IVF, genetic screening was introduced to overcome these issues. Similarly, to reduce the chances of multiple pregnancies (undesired), single embryo transfer was introduced. To improve the success rate of conception, frozen and thawed embryos are proven to be better than fresh embryos. These few techniques combined with better drugs have further increased the success rate of IVF. The approach is to spread the use of IVF to treat infertility, at the same time reduce the risks and complications associated with IVF.
Advances in IVF have reduced complications with IVF.
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In vitro fertilization which is seen as a boon for couples facing infertility has come a long way from the time it started. While multiple pregnancies and ectopic pregnancies were common about a decade ago, these are reduced now with advancements. A single embryo is used so that undesired multiple pregnancies are avoided. Though risks and complications are reduced, they are not eliminated. Talk to your doctor before going ahead with IVF.
What are some complications that are being addressed via the new advancements?
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Birth defects including Downs syndrome were common in earlier cases of IVF. Therefore, genetic screening was done to identify if these are inherent. Similarly, extracting a single egg, freezing it and then thawing and using it for conception improves chances of fertility. IVF is not without its risks, so have a detailed chat with your doctor to ensure that the process is smooth.
Success rates with IVF has increased with recent advances.
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IVF has become the definitive solution for infertility in recent years. However, once couples decide to go ahead, they realize that the success rate is not always as high as they thought it would be. However, in recent years, with intrauterine insemination and intracytoplasmic sperm injections, the success rates have gone up drastically. The number of couples resorting to IVF has also considerably gone up given this increased success rates. Educate yourself as a couple on IVF before signing up. There are various forums and sources available, and a thorough understanding definitely helps.
What are some benefits of using IVF vs. other infertility treatment options?
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IVF is preferred over other infertility options by a lot of couples. There are many reasons for this, and with recent advances, they have only increased further. With success rates going up and birth defects reduced due to genetic screening, couples can be assured of a good end result. Options are also available to select healthy sperms and eggs so that the fertilized egg is healthy and optimal in all ways. IVF is a journey that the couple has to go through together, so total commitment is essential from both.