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IVF at 40 and Beyond: Breaking Down Age-Related Fertility Myths

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Introduction

Do you know the IVF success rate in India falls between 30-35% as per the Obstetrics and Gynaecology department of All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi?

In today’s scenario, there are ample reasons why women delay starting a family, be it the pursuit of a career, financial reasons, lack of stable relationships, or personal preferences. But how do these preferences affect one’s chances of getting pregnant? With the help of an IVF doctor in Kolkata, you can certainly increase your chances!

With an increase in mothers’ average age across the globe, IVF at 40 years of age – or even over 40 – becomes one of the viable solutions for many women who haven’t been successful in their efforts so far or choose to delay motherhood due to personal reasons.

Can this be considered easy or is 40 too old for IVF?

In this blog, we will debunk myths about IVF at the age of 40 and above. So, without further ado let’s dive deep right into it!

Myths vs Facts!

  • Myth: IVF is for women only!
IVF is a technique in which the man’s sperm and the woman’s egg are fertilized in a laboratory. Today, IVF is used increasingly in combination with several male infertility treatment modalities such as TESA, PESA and ICSI. For instance, a combined ICSI and IVF can be used in cases of severe male infertility. While technically IVF can be considered a fertility treatment for women, more than often it is complemented by men’s infertility treatment. So, it is important to consult an IVF doctor in Kolkata to proceed with your IVF treatment.
  • Myth: IVF is for Younger Women Only!

One of the common assumptions in IVF is that it is for younger women only and older women have minimal success rate with the treatment. While it is true that fertility declines with increasing age, In Vitro fertilization can still be a viable option for women in their 40s. For that, consultation with the best IVF doctor in Kolkata is crucial.

Age does affect the quality and quantity of eggs, but today’s IVF offers various solutions including the usage of donor eggs which can increasingly enhance the success rate of IVF in older women. In addition to that, many women opt to freeze their eggs at a young age which preserves their fertility for the future.

This option allows older women to undergo IVF treatment in future using their healthier eggs. Hence, IVF misconceptions like the idea that it is only for younger women should not restrict someone from opting for the treatment. However, one should consult fertility clinics or an IVF doctor in Kolkata to craft a plan for individualised treatment.

  • Myth: Older Women Should Avoid IVF Due to Increased Risk of Birth Defects!

While it is true that fertility in a woman decreases with increasing age, IVF procedures that combine other procedures like PGTA ensure a genetically healthy embryo which significantly lowers the chances of birth defects. It is crucial to remember that the advanced age of the mother doesn’t automatically mean that the baby will exhibit problems if the right safety measures are taken. However, these safety measures can be discussed thoroughly with the best IVF doctor in Kolkata.

  • Myth: For Older Women, Pregnancy is Harmful!
That is not completely wrong. However, not everyone exhibits complications during pregnancy. The common issues include diabetes, preeclampsia, preterm labour, and increased risk of caesarean. The evaluation of risk by an IVF doctor in Kolkata before conception, careful monitoring during the different stages of pregnancy and ample rest can help the woman and doctor to undergo the identification of these issues early.

Conclusion

Knowing the facts while clearing up any misconceptions about IVF after your 40s can help you make informed and knowledgeable choices on your path to fertility. While it is important to keep in mind that everyone’s IVF journey is different, there is no single solution that fits all when it comes to fertility treatments. Talking to your gynaecologist or an IVF doctor in Kolkata about your particular situation along with option treatments is important.

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