IVF FAQs

For many couples struggling with infertility, IVF is an effective method of reproduction. Depending on your health history and family goals, we may recommend starting with other forms of assisted reproduction, such as intrauterine insemination (IUI). If you have struggled to become pregnant naturally or through IUI, IVF may be needed to grow your family.

The number of IVF cycles varies from patient to patient. For some, pregnancy occurs during the first cycle. However, some couples and individuals are more likely to become pregnant after at least two IVF cycles. Our fertility specialists are committed to creating a clear treatment plan and making treatments as accessible as possible.

One of the significant historical risks of IVF is birthing multiple babies. Carrying multiples runs the risks of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, failure to thrive, anemia, and delivery via C-section. Multiple babies are more likely to be born prematurely, have low birth weight, and run a potentially increased risk of long-term disabilities. Our fertility specialists will speak with IVF candidates about these issues ahead of time, and we recommend elective single embryo transfer (eSET) during IVF to avoid multiples.

Fertility medications can have some noted side effects for the women who take them, including:

• Headaches
• Mood swings and irritability
• Hot flashes
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating

One rare but serious side effect is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which occurs if the medication results in too many eggs developing in the ovaries, causing them to become painful, swollen, and tender. While this side effect is rare, our fertility specialists monitor for hyperstimulation and can act quickly if ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome occurs.

As with all minimally invasive surgical procedures, there are minor risks associated with some of the IVF steps. During egg retrieval, there are potential risks with anesthesia and possibly internal bleeding, infection, or damage to nearby organs or blood vessels. The catheter used during embryo transfer may cause spotting, bleeding, or cramping after the procedure.

The egg retrieval and embryo transfer procedures may cause side effects, such as mild cramping and bloating, constipation, breast tenderness, or passing small amounts of fluid from the vagina. Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) is a rare but serious complication when the ovaries become overly enlarged and painful. We follow up with patients after the procedures, and we encourage patients to contact us if any side effects occur.

Extra embryos can be frozen and stored for future use through the process of cryopreservation. This can make future treatment cycles less expensive and less invasive. Embryos can also be donated. Our fertility specialists will help you create a plan prior to the procedure.

Some couples and individuals, including those within our LGBTQ+ community, will need donor eggs or sperm to undergo IVF. The Fertility Institute has strong connections with sperm and egg donation centers across the country, and we can help you find a match based on your preferences.