Just been told we're going down the IVF route

[SugarSnap88]

Hi,

Bit nervous about posting this, as I'm new to this community and not done anything like this before. Me and my partner have just learnt today that we're going to be referred for IVF. We've been trying for 2 years and have "unexplained infertility".

I've just been reading up on the procedure and the potential risks associated with IVF and I just got a little spooked I guess. Risks around possible birth defects and impacts on us as women from the drugs etc.

Wondered if anyone's got any further research that I could look at or resources that I could read for a bit of reassurance?

Thanks in advance.

SugarSnapp88

[CyclingAddict]

Firstly, welcome! I thought I'd respond as I ended up down the same rabbit hole when we were first referred for IVF. I think it's important to remember any pregnancy carries risk and correlation doesn't necessarily mean causation. A lot of us on this journey have fertility issues and/or are older - two external factors that may also contribute to an increase in disabilities in children conceived via IVF. So it's a bit like the chicken and the egg - does the IVF procedure and meds cause an increase in children born with disabilities OR do the factors that play into a couple requiring IVF in the first place cause the increase (or perhaps a combination of both)? We just don't have the research yet. There are some things you could look into - like PGTA testing where they screen the embryos to check for chromosomal issues. But, honestly, Google can be your worst nightmare when going through IVF as there is so much conflicting information out there. All the best x

[Hidden]

hello SugarSnap88,

First of all, I want to give you a big hug. I know what it feels to be told “IVF is the best option for you” and I know how scared I was when it happened to me and my husband.

I ended up researching anything and everything: complications, risks, drugs side effects, you name it. And to be honest, I suggest you don’t do it. Google can be resourceful but can also be a scary place when it comes to these things.

Each and every experience is different of course, but as someone who’s gone through IVF, I can say I had a very good one. Currently holding my little one who is a healthy and beautiful IVF baby😍

Best of luck to you and loads of baby dust coming your way 🥰

[silvervn]

Hi, we are in the unexplained category, and at 2 years of trying were offered one round of IVF on the NHS. I’ve just had egg collection. I don’t have any answers for you, but wanted to offer support and a listening ear. I found it all overwhelming and lonely so if you ever want to chat please message me.

I would also echo not researching too much. I know myself, I’m anxious, and I steered away from what I could. I know it’s easier said than done.

Wishing you all the best on your journey xxx

[SugarSnap88]

thank you all for such kind responses - it’s really helped. I’m sure I will be back on here for more support when we start the process. Wishing you all the luck in the world xx

[Boo718]

hello I don’t have research pages to show you but we have been on the ivf journey since 2017. So have gone through a number of rounds and have a beautiful little hit now. If you have any questions please just ask xxx