Written By: Prerna Mittra | Updated : April 29, 2025 11:53 AM IST
Medically Verified By: Dr Kunzang Dolma, a fertility specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Whitefield, Bangalore
Myth Or Fact: Can Undergoing IVF Procedure Trigger An Early Menopause? (Photo: Freepik)
IVF, menopause, and reproductive health: There are many questions that cross a couple's mind when they think of starting their IVF journey. One common question that most women ask their doctors is whether undergoing IVF -- or in-vitro fertilization -- procedure can lead to an early menopause by harming their reproductive health. Lately, concerns about IVF's effects on long-term health have only increased. The fear regarding IVF leading to an early menopause stems from the fact that it often causes some hormonal changes in the body. The truth, however, is that IVF does not cause menopause to happen earlier than it naturally would.
According to Dr Kunzang Dolma, a fertility specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Whitefield, Bangalore, many women think that IVF uses up the eggs too quickly; but it is a misunderstanding. "Every woman is born with a set number of eggs. Each month, many eggs start to develop, but usually only one is released during ovulation. The rest naturally break down and are lost. IVF uses some of these eggs that would have been lost anyway. The process does not take more eggs than the body would normally lose," the doctor explains.
Dr Dolma states that IVF treatments involve medications that help the ovaries produce more eggs in a single cycle. "This is done to improve the chances of success. These medications do not damage the ovaries or speed-up the timing of menopause. After the treatment, the body continues its normal process, and the number of eggs continues to decline at a natural rate."
The doctor adds that some women may notice changes in their periods after IVF, which are usually temporary and caused by the medications used during treatment. Hormone levels return to normal after a short time, she says. "This is not the same as going into menopause, which is a permanent end to menstrual cycles."
The expert states that in some cases, women who are already close to menopause may notice symptoms after undergoing IVF, which can give them the impression that it was IVF that caused early menopause. But, it is more likely that age or natural hormonal changes caused it. IVF cannot start menopause earlier than the body's natural timing."
Early menopause happens before the age of 45. It is usually caused by factors like genetics, certain medical conditions, or treatments like chemotherapy. "IVF is not one of the causes. It is a safe and well-studied option for women trying to have a baby," Dr fertility specialist says.
The doctor concludes by saying that while IVF treatment involves hormonal medications and medical procedures, it does not interfere with the natural timing of menopause. The ovaries continue to age as they would without treatment. In fact, scientific studies and clinical experience show IVF is a safe process that supports fertility without causing long-term harm to a woman's reproductive health.
