Before you start IVF, the book recommends asking your specialist eight essential questions: the clinic's success rate for your age and diagnosis, the protocol, fresh or frozen transfer, how many embryos, whether PGT is indicated, the total expected costs, what's included, and how many attempts before revisiting the strategy. Detailed answers help you understand your plan and take part in each decision.
IVF success varies with age: with your own embryo, from 40 to 55% per transfer under 35 to less than 5% over 43. A general average tells you little, which is why the question asks for women your age and with your diagnosis.
The transfer can happen in the same cycle (fresh) or in a later cycle (frozen). Many centers now prioritize frozen embryo transfer for slightly better rates, so ask which one your clinic suggests for you, and why.
The idea that “IVF only makes twins” is a myth: a single transfer leads to 1 baby in most cases. The number of embryos transferred is a decision to understand before you start.
PGT, the genetic analysis of the embryos before the transfer, is indicated in advanced maternal age (35+), recurrent miscarriage, implantation failure in IVF and a family history of genetic conditions. If it is suggested, ask how it fits your case.
Ask for the total expected costs and what could come as an extra before you start: the book lists costs that come up with no warning among the signs that it may be time to change doctors. On its treatment ladder, IVF typically gets 1 to 3 cycles before the strategy is reassessed, so knowing the plan in advance helps you prepare, emotionally too.
A good professional gives you time in the appointment, explains every step, asks your opinion on decisions and is transparent about costs. If the proposed treatment is expensive or complex, such as IVF, the book considers a second opinion good medical practice, not distrust.
These questions close Chapter 35 of Map to the Positive, in Station IV (Signs), after a step-by-step walk through the five phases of IVF, the possible side effects and the common myths. Chapter 31 adds the script to evaluate a doctor at the first appointment, and Chapter 34 places IVF on the full treatment ladder.
Take 30 days. If it does not give you more clarity than everything you have read for free so far, ask for a refund and you get every cent back. We cannot promise you a pregnancy. We can promise you will not be guessing.
References: ESHRE Annual Report on ART in Europe (2023). · CDC ART National Summary Report (2022).