1.The IVF never succeeds at the first attempt. Myth

Based on international statistics, more than 60% of young couples will achieve a pregnancy at the first attempt. Women after the age of 40 have lower success rates and more attemps are generally required.

2. Much effort is required for success. Myth

It has been statistically proven that with the recent progress of IVF techniques a couple should achieve a pregnancy by completing 3-4 attempts. After this number the rates are being reduced significantly and the whole effort should be discussed and thoroughly reviewed by the scientific staff, who should propose solutions.

3. After the embryo transfer the woman should not move until the pregnancy test. Myth

Embryos do not move or 'fall' with body movements.

All the scientific studies as well as the modern units of IVF worldwide do not put restrictions on a reasonable activity after the embryo transfer.

4. IVF medicines can cause cancer. Myth

During the past 35 years with exctence use, these medicines are used no scientific study has ever found a correlation with gynecological cancer (breast, ovarian uterine)

They are actually hormones which are circulating in the female organism and they are prescribed for a short period of 10 to 12 days at a slightly higher dosage.

5. All IVF centers are the same. Myth

There are big differences between centers which include their experience, the infrastructure and the Laboratory. IVF is a medical procedure that involves high specialization, advanced technological equipment and constant updating.

6. The process is very demanding and painful. Myth

Today the whole process is very friendly, it lasts two weeks, the couple does not have to be absent from work and it does not disturb at all the daily routine of the couple.

7. IVF is a psychologically difficult procedure. Truth

It is very logical to have psychological stress, the expectations are high and the burden after failure is enormous. It is very normal to be anxious about the outcome.

Thus, it is very important that the Center is supportive and that it maintains a good relationship with the couple.

8. IVF children are totally healthy. Truth

Until today there have been born more than six million children worldwide.

Both the physical and the mental-emotional health of these children do not differ from other children. On the contrary, some studies have shown that IVF children perform better in school perhaps because of the increased parental care!

Minas Mastromias