Written By: Muskan Gupta | Published : August 8, 2025 1:02 PM IST
Medically Verified By: Dr. Pooja Bajaj Wadhwa, IVF Expert
Infertility is now a global issue. According to WHO (World Health Organisation), infertility affects millions of people and has an impact on their families and communities. Estimates suggest that approximately one in every six people of reproductive age worldwide experience infertility in their lifetime. Here's what all couples should know about infertility treatments.
According to Dr Pooja Bajaj Wadhwa, IVF Expert, "In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) where sperm and an egg are fertilised outside of the human body. During the IVF cycle, medications are used to stimulate multiple eggs to grow to maturity inside the ovaries. These eggs are then retrieved from the ovaries and fertilised by sperm in a laboratory. The fertilised eggs, now embryos, are cultured in a controlled environment in the laboratory. The embryos are monitored for growth and development over the next few days. These embryos are then transferred to the uterus in order to achieve a pregnancy."
There are certain indications which should not be ignored by a couple wanting to conceive: If the female has tubal disorders such as blocked fallopian tubes, uterine disorders like endometriosis, septate uterus or fibroids, or any disorder of the ovaries, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome and other follicular disorders, or if the male partner is having a testicular failure to produce sperm, for example, due to varicoceles or abnormal sperm function and quality. Conditions or situations that cause abnormal shape (morphology) and movement (motility) of the sperm negatively affect fertility. "Under such conditions, it's important for you to find an IVF specialist who can assist you with a tailored approach towards your unique condition. As an IVF specialist, it is extremely important to diagnose the right issue and suggest a treatment plan that best suits the problem of the couple." Dr Bajaj says.
The success rate for IVF differs from couple to couple. However, the global success rate of IVF ranges from 40% to 65%. Certain factors determine the success rate of an IVF cycle, including the couple's age, the quality of their sperm and eggs, and any underlying reproductive issues. It's important to consult with a fertility/IVF specialist for personalised guidance and to understand the potential success rates based on the individual circumstances of the couple opting for the treatment.
The short answer is yes; it is absolutely possible to have a normal birth after an IVF treatment. Women who opt for IVF treatment intend to have healthy pregnancies and deliver naturally. The mode of delivery whether natural or caesarean should be carefully assessed by the treating doctor, as it depends largely on individual health conditions and how the pregnancy progresses throughout each trimester. "Couples wishing to conceive either naturally or through IVF should understand the importance of lifestyle as well. Alcohol, smoking and a bad diet full of junk food should be avoided by both partners when planning for pregnancy. It is also essential to balance one's mental well-being and try to be stress-free. On this World IVF Day, I would like to encourage couples to seek treatment at the right time, as delay can affect your overall fertility health." Dr Bajaj.
IVF is often recommended for couples facing infertility due to blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count, ovulation disorders, age-related infertility, or unexplained fertility issues.
IVF is a fertility treatment where an egg and sperm are combined outside the body in a lab. The resulting embryo is then implanted into the woman’s uterus to help achieve pregnancy.
