When it comes to fertility treatment, there’s no shortage of myths, from internet rumours to well-meaning advice from friends and family. To help separate fact from fiction, Bourn Life’s Suhib Aleses had a quick chat with Dr Shazia Magray, Specialist in Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, and Medical Director at Bourn Hall Dubai, who set the record straight with clarity, honesty, and a dose of science.
Myth 1: IVF always results in twins or triplets
Fact: Multiple pregnancies are less common than ever before.
“In the early days of IVF, transferring multiple embryos was more common,” explains Dr Shazia. “But today, thanks to improved laboratory technology and embryo selection, we often transfer just one high-quality embryo.”
Myth 2: Age doesn’t matter if you’re using IVF
Fact: Age still plays a major role in fertility.
“IVF can improve your chances, but it doesn’t stop the natural ageing process of eggs,” says Dr Shazia. “The quality and quantity of a woman’s eggs decline over time, so the earlier you explore your options, like egg freezing, the better your outcomes may be.”
Myth 3: IVF guarantees a 100% chance of pregnancy
Fact: No fertility treatment can promise success; however, IVF offers hope.
“IVF is one of the most effective fertility treatments available,” Dr Shazia explains. “However, success depends on many factors, including age, overall health, and the cause of infertility.”
Myth 4: Stress can lower your chances of IVF success
Fact: True, but it’s about balance, not perfection.
“Stress affects hormone balance and overall well-being,” says Dr Shazia. “While mild stress is normal, chronic stress can make the journey harder emotionally and physically.”
Myth 5: IVF is only for women over 35
Fact: IVF can help women and men of any reproductive age who face fertility challenges.
“Many younger couples need IVF due to conditions like blocked tubes, endometriosis, or male factor infertility,” she explains.
Myth 6: Men’s fertility doesn’t really matter in IVF
Fact: Male fertility is half the equation.
“Sperm quality, including count, movement, and shape, can significantly influence IVF outcomes,” says Dr Shazia. “That’s why we always assess both partners. Fertility is a shared journey, and both sides matter.”
Myth 7: You can’t do IVF if you’re overweight
Fact: IVF can still be successful, but maintaining a healthy weight helps.
“While extreme weight can affect hormone balance and egg quality, many women with higher BMIs still conceive successfully with IVF,” she reassures. “It’s more about overall health and careful medical supervision.”
Myth 8: IVF always involves hormone stimulation
Fact: Not always.
“While many IVF cycles use hormonal support to produce multiple eggs, we also offer mild or natural stimulation cycles,” says Dr Shazia. “Treatment is tailored, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach in fertility care.”
- The lead form https://bournhall-clinic.ae/contact-us/
- The Toll Free call no: 800-IVF (483)