If you’re considering undergoing in vitro fertilization, or IVF, to conceive a child, there are some important things that you should know before beginning the process. Obtaining the right knowledge can help you make the smartest decisions when it comes to your family planning and medical care. Here are some of the most important things to know about IVF.

Egg Retrieval Usually Isn’t a Highly Invasive Process

You may have heard horror stories about the process that some women have had to go through for the doctors to collect their eggs for fertilization. However, most eggs can be retrieved with minimal complications. In most cases, only local anesthesia will need to be used during the procedure, which carries less risk than a procedure performed while under general anesthesia. You’ll likely be able to return to your normal daily activities the day after your eggs have been retrieved.

Possible Risks

As with any other medical procedure, IVF carries health risks that should be considered. You may experience bleeding and infections along with bladder and bowel damage during the egg retrieval process. The rates of miscarriage, premature delivery, and low birth weight are also sometimes higher when IVF is performed. A condition known as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, which causes the ovaries to become swollen and painful, can occur as well. A qualified gynaecologist will explain these and other risks to you in more detail and take the necessary precautions to lower your chances of complications. Make sure you are honest about your medical history, to get a clearer picture of what you may need to watch out for.

IVF Isn’t Always Successful at First

It’s wise to go into the IVF process with the mindset that you might not be able to conceive a child after the first attempt. Some women may require two or three cycles of fertility treatments to achieve success. Having this knowledge will help you set expectations that are more realistic and can save you from having to deal with a lot of disappointment if you’re unable to conceive after the initial treatment. It’s important to be patient and be prepared with your partner in the likely case that you need to try multiple times.

Embryos Can Be Saved for Later

Any extra embryos that were fertilized successfully with IVF that you don’t want to use right away can be kept frozen for later use. These frozen embryos can be used for future pregnancies and can save you the trouble of having to undergo additional IVF treatments. If you choose not to ever use the frozen embryos for yourself, you can donate them to other couples who are struggling with infertility issues. This is a great way to pay it forward and help other couples who want to have kids but have fertility issues.

IVF can make it possible for you to get pregnant and grow your family if other methods of child conception have been ineffective. Getting all the right information before starting IVF can make your decision of whether to go through the process easier and will make handling the ups and downs of the process easier as well.