By Dr Bani Kumar Mitra, Founder & Chief Consultant, Abha Surgy Centre
The decision to pursue in-vitro fertilization (IVF) is often one of the most significant and emotional milestones in a couple’s journey to parenthood. Over the years, I have met many hopeful parents walking into the clinic with expectations, fears and a heart full of questions. IVF is not just a medical procedure it is a deeply personal experience that demands clarity, preparation and resilience.
Before taking the first step, here are a few essential truths every couple should know.
1. IVF is Not Always a Straight Road Set Realistic Expectations
The most common misconception about IVF is that it guarantees a pregnancy. While medical advancements have significantly improved success rates, they vary depending on age, underlying fertility conditions, and individual health factors. For women under 35, the average success rate per IVF cycle is around 40 – 45%, and it declines with age.It is important to understand that many couples may require multiple cycles, and each cycle comes with its own emotional and physical challenges. IVF is a process, not a promise. Walking into it with realistic expectations can help reduce disappointment and build emotional resilience.
2. Understand The Timeline – It Takes Time, Planning And Patience
Contrary to popular belief, IVF is not a single-day event. A typical IVF cycle spans four to six weeks, involving various stages from ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval to fertilization and embryo transfer.
Additionally, pre-IVF evaluations, such as hormonal profiling, semen analysis, ultrasound scans, and infectious disease screenings, may take time. If embryo freezing or genetic testing is involved, the timeline can be extended further.
Couples should plan their work schedules, travel commitments, and personal engagements accordingly. IVF requires availability, both emotionally and physically.
IVF involves medical, physical, emotional and financial preparation for the best optimised outcome (pregnancy rate, healthy mother and baby ) and it may take time in certain cases.
3. Know The Financial Implications – IVF Involves More Than Just One Cost
Cost is one of the most critical aspects to understand before starting IVF. While the base cost of a single cycle in India ranges between ₹1.2 to ₹2.5 lakhs, additional expenses for medications, embryo freezing, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), or donor gametes can push the total significantly higher.
Many clinics offer packages or financing options, but it is important to get a clear, itemized estimate and understand what is included and what is not. Couples should also factor in the possibility of multiple cycles and potential travel or accommodation costs if they are coming from smaller towns.
4. Emotional Preparation Is Key – IVF Affects Mental Health Too
IVF can be physically demanding, but what is often overlooked is the emotional toll. The hormonal medications may cause mood swings, anxiety or fatigue. The wait between embryo transfer and pregnancy test often referred to as the “two-week wait”- can be mentally exhausting.
Moreover, coping with failed attempts can be heartbreaking. This is why psychological counselling and emotional support should be considered a part of the treatment plan, not an afterthought. Clinics with integrated counselling services, support groups, or mental health professionals can make a significant difference in a couple’s experience.
5. Communication Is Crucial – Between You And Your Partner And With Your Doctor
Open, honest communication between partners helps in managing expectations and sharing emotional burdens. It is equally vital to have transparent conversations with your fertility specialist. Don not hesitate to ask questions about protocols, risks, alternatives and long-term implications. Informed decisions come from informed discussions.
IVF is a life-changing journey that blends science with emotion, patience with perseverance. With the right knowledge, support, and expectations, couples can navigate it with strength and clarity. As a doctor, my role goes beyond prescribing medication—it includes preparing my patients for the journey, every step of the way.
Parenthood through IVF is not just about conceiving a child – it’s about embracing the process, trusting the science, and believing in the possibility of new beginnings.