IVF is known as In Vitro Fertilization and is a type of ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology). It is the process of fertilization where an egg is combined with sperm outside the body, in vitro. IVF is termed one of the most successful infertility treatments, among others. The ultimate goal of IVF is to achieve pregnancy leading to the birth of healthy offspring.
IVF is most preferred for couples facing the following problems:
- Blocked Fallopian tubes
- Severe male infertility
- Concern about passing on certain genetic disorders
- Lack of success using IUI
Many people think there are just two options when trying to conceive: natural conception and IVF. But, in reality, there are several different infertility treatments that may help increase a person’s chance of getting pregnant.
Not all fertility problems are the same, and the most important thing to understand is why a couple has a fertility problem and what are the safest and most cost-effective alternatives to IVF? IVF treatment cost may be higher, but the success rate of IVF is also higher compared to other fertility treatments and options.
What are the other alternatives to IVF?
IVF can enable couples to reproduce, having their own genetics passed on to their children, but IVF treatment cost is often very expensive. Suppose IVF is not the right option for you. In that case, there are other methods by which you can have a healthy child to love and care for, including fertility treatments, intrauterine insemination, surrogacy, and adoption.
Ovulation Induction
Ovulation Induction can help women who do not ovulate regularly, and PCOS can cause irregular ovulation. After ovulation induction, couples may be able to conceive through regular intercourse.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) involves the partner’s sperm being introduced to the woman’s uterus. This should help to increase the number of sperm that reach the Fallopian tubes to fertilize an egg.
Surrogacy
Surrogacy usually involves the insemination of a surrogate woman. In some countries, paid surrogacy is legal. Some surrogates may wish to be part of the child’s life, whilst others are happy to leave the child to the biological parents.
Adoption
Adoption can be a complicated process to go through but allows you to change a child’s life for the better dramatically. You can adopt at various ages, although many people prefer to adopt babies or young children, as this gives them the best opportunity to bring up a child in their own way. Some women who have unwanted pregnancies may agree to adoption whilst they are still pregnant. This can be a great way to help an expectant mother and her child whilst also allowing you to bring up a child from the beginning of its life. Fostering is also a possibility for you to parent a child without that child being your own legally. This can be a good option for people who wish to help others and give opportunities to underprivileged children without having to be their parents.
Why Is IVF Recommended Over Other Treatments?
Some of the reasons why IVF is recommended over other treatments are:
- IVF is successful where other infertility treatments may not work for you.
- IVF is not gender-specific and age-specific.
- One does not have to rely only on the respective partner. You can use donated eggs or sperm from others.
- IVF cycle can be really convenient for people with busy schedules. You can control the treatment time and when to start and stop.
- IVF increases your chances of having a healthy baby.
- Increase your chances of conception with the lowest multiple birthrates of any ART.
Conclusion:
Doctors conduct various tests before performing IVF treatment. This may help them assess their condition and determine which treatment suits them best.
Though the IUI treatment cost is much more reasonable and cheaper than the IVF treatment cost, it is recommended to take the doctors’ advice before finding yourself a more affordable option. Choosing the right option might increase your chances of getting pregnant.
