Is IVF right for you? Your questions answered

Are you considering in vitro fertilisation (IVF) but not sure if it’s right for you? With one in six Australian couples finding it difficult to conceive, it’s not surprising that more people are turning to IVF treatment for a chance to have a baby. 

People decide to undergo IVF treatment for different reasons, both medical and personal. If you’re wondering if IVF is right for you, here are some of the most common reasons to undergo IVF treatment: 

• Male infertility – if a man has a very low sperm count or if sperm has poor sperm motility (swimming ability). 
• You aren’t producing eggs. Donor eggs will be required. 
• If you’re older than 35 and haven’t fallen pregnant trying other fertility options for more than six months. 
• You have blocked or no fallopian tubes.
• You experience problems with ovulation due to endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). 
• You have cancer and want to preserve your eggs or embryo as you’ll be receiving chemotherapy.
• You have a chromosomal abnormality or another inherited genetic disease that you don’t wish to pass onto your child. 
• You identify as LGBTIQA+ and wish to start a family. 
• You’re single and want to build a family.
• Unexplained infertility.

Fertility testing on the Gold Coast

If you’re considering IVF your GP may recommend fertility testing. If your GP sends you for some tests, you can then be referred to a fertility specialist who can review the results and may send you for additional examinations. 

At Grace Private our fertility specialists Tina Fleming and Tania Widmer are the experts at assessing fertility and some of the tests they recommend may include: 

• Ovarian reserve (AMH) blood test. 
• Pelvic ultrasound.
• Ovulation testing and tracking.
• Fallopian tube examination (x-ray, laparoscopy, dye test).
• Recommendation for male infertility testing (semen testing). 

Reasons why IVF might not be an option for you

Unfortunately, not everyone is a suitable candidate for IVF treatment. There are a number of conditions that affect the success rate of IVF including ovarian dysfunction, abnormal hormone levels, uterine abnormalities, severe obesity and fibroid tumors. It’s best to consult your fertility specialist if you have any of these conditions. 

IVF and emotional support 

The IVF journey isn’t always easy and if you’re considering IVF treatment it’s essential to have emotional support every step of the way. Whether it’s a supportive partner, family and friends, or a support group, you may need to turn to them to get through stressful times. 

IVF treatment doesn’t guarantee you’ll fall pregnant, and it isn’t always successful in the first cycle. This can be frustrating and emotional, so it’s important you have someone to lean on for support. 

The cost of IVF

At Grace Private we provide expert fertility treatment. The cost of IVF will differ depending on your individual circumstances and if you need to have multiple IVF cycles. This may be a determining factor if IVF is for you. 

On average, an out of pocket expense for an initial IVF cycle starts from approximately $5,000. This will depend on private health insurance, hospital fees and your Medicare Safety Net. Our experienced fertility specialists will discuss how much they expect your treatment to cost. 

How to start your fertility journey with Grace Private 

Ask your GP for a referral – that’s the first step. Then, you’ll meet with one of our experienced fertility specialists to discuss how Grace can help achieve your dream of having a baby.