5 signs you need a new IVF specialist.
I work with a lot of women and couples preparing for or working through IVF. Quite simply, your choice of IVF doctor is important. Sometimes its a matter of two personalities just not really clicking, but it pays to be aware that not all IVF doctors are equal.
If you’re already involved in IVF, it is important you remember that you are in control of who you work with at all times. Be open to a second opinion. If you’re about to start, I highly suggest having an initial consultation with at least two fertility doctors. Sometimes this is enough to give you some perspective.
Automatic pass? Heres five (real life) red flags:
1. If the doctor confidently says “you’ll be pregnant by x date”.
Unfortunately, there are no guarantees with fertility – and that includes the IVF world. Giving guarantees gives a false indication of success and false hope. It’s reckless at best.
Some women or couples will have a higher likelihood of success based on clinical prediction models. These take into account factors like age, disease history, test results and previous treatments, but even with everything in your favour, no doctor can offer you such surety.
2. If you’re told you need to pay for mandatory onsite counselling before or during a protocol.
Counselling is a fantastic idea. IVF is a physical and emotional roller coaster and developing coping mechanisms and a support team is highly encouraged. But. Mandatory, through their own practice and out of your own pocket? Nuh uh.
Most health practitioners have a referral base and are able to suggest a preferred counsellor or psychologist to work with should you wish.
3. If you’re told there is nothing you can do to support your health or fertility while going through IVF
Study upon study show that the use of various therapies and lifestyle changes prior to, or alongside IVF protocols can lead to improved outcomes - in terms of both emotional health, and clinical outcomes of live birth.
4. When you ask how they measure success (and you should ask!) - if the answer is anything but ‘live births’
How else can success be measured?
· Number of protocols per annum; nothing to do with fertility, and everything to do with reporting financials to shareholders.
· Pregnancy rate; research around the miscarriage rate with IVF varies, but generally indicates it is the same or slightly higher than the rest of the population. Pregnancy rate will give a higher rate of success than ‘live birth’ rate.
5. If the Dr tells you that you that they’re the best and you don’t need a second opinion
Eeeeeep. Get a second opinion.
Acupuncture and lifestyle changes can be used to help support your IVF protocol. Questions? Email the clinic, or make an appointment.
Jenna xx