What I Wish I Knew Before Starting IVF

Going through IVF is a life-changing journey filled with hope, anxiety, and a rollercoaster of emotions. While many people focus on the end goal – a successful pregnancy – there are several important aspects of IVF that I wish I had known beforehand. If you’re considering or preparing for IVF, this guide on what I wish I knew before starting IVF will help you feel more informed and prepared.

1. What I Wish I Knew Before Starting IVF: It’s an Emotional Rollercoaster

Before starting IVF, I underestimated the emotional toll it would take. The highs of hope and the lows of setbacks can be overwhelming.

How to Cope:

• Lean on your support system—partner, family, friends, or an IVF support group.
• Consider therapy or counselling to help navigate emotions.
• Keep communication open with your partner to support each other through the journey.

Read our blog post How to Cope with IVF Anxiety and Stress for more information.

2. IVF Success Is Not Guaranteed

IVF doesn’t always work on the first attempt. Success rates vary depending on age, underlying fertility issues, and the clinic’s expertise.

What I Wish I Had Known:

• Women under 35 have higher success rates, but success isn’t guaranteed.
• It’s common to go through multiple cycles before achieving pregnancy.
• Managing expectations and preparing for possible disappointments is essential.

3. IVF Takes Time

IVF is not a quick process—it involves multiple stages, from consultations and tests to medications and procedures.

Time Considerations:

• A single IVF cycle can take 4-6 weeks.
• If a cycle fails, you may need to wait before trying again.
• Plan your schedule to accommodate multiple clinic visits.

4. The Cost of IVF Can Be High

IVF is expensive, especially if you’re undergoing treatment privately in the UK. NHS funding for IVF varies by location, and many couples pay out of pocket.

Financial Planning Tips:

• Check your eligibility for NHS-funded IVF.
• Research clinics and compare prices for different treatments.
• Consider payment plans, insurance, or fertility grants.

5. IVF Medications Have Side Effects

Hormonal medications used in IVF can cause side effects, and some procedures may be uncomfortable.

Common Side Effects:

• Bloating and discomfort during ovarian stimulation.
• Fatigue, headaches, and mood swings.
• Cramping after egg retrieval and embryo transfer.

6. Egg Retrieval Can Be More Intense Than Expected

The egg retrieval process is a minor surgical procedure but can still be physically taxing.

What to Expect:

• It’s performed under sedation, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure.
• Mild to moderate cramping and bloating afterward are normal.
• Plan for a day of rest post-retrieval.

7. The Two-Week Wait (TWW) Is Mentally Challenging

After embryo transfer, you’ll face the dreaded two-week wait before taking a pregnancy test. This period is filled with anxiety and overanalyzing every symptom.

Coping Strategies:

• Stay busy with activities that keep your mind occupied.
• Avoid early testing, as it can lead to false positives or negatives.
• Find an online IVF community for support.

8. Frozen Embryo Transfers (FET) Can Be a Great Option

If you have extra embryos from a fresh IVF cycle, they can be frozen for future use.

Why Consider FET?

• It allows your body to recover from the stimulation process.
• Some studies suggest frozen embryo transfers may have better success rates.
• It provides another opportunity without starting a full cycle again.

9. It’s Okay to Take Breaks Between Cycles

If a cycle fails, it’s okay to step back and take time to heal emotionally and physically.

Reasons to Take a Break:

• Allow your body to recover from hormone treatments.
• Gain clarity on your next steps.
• Reduce stress and prevent IVF burnout.

10. IVF Is Not Just About Science—Mindset Matters

Going through IVF isn’t just a medical process; it’s also a mental and emotional challenge. Maintaining a positive mindset can make a big difference.

Mindset Tips:

• Focus on what you can control, like self-care and healthy habits.
• Practice mindfulness, meditation, or journaling.
• Celebrate small milestones along the way.

Final Thoughts

If you’re wondering what I wish I knew before starting IVF, I hope this guide has helped you feel more prepared. Starting IVF is a deeply personal journey filled with uncertainties, but being well-informed can give you confidence and resilience.

For more IVF insights and support, stay connected with FertilityFix.