Top Questions to Ask Your IVF Specialist Before Starting Treatment

Starting an IVF journey is a major decision—emotionally, physically, and financially. Each fertility journey is unique, which is why asking the right questions before starting treatment is critical.

Discussing your concerns with your IVF specialist will help you understand the process, prepare mentally and physically, and set realistic expectations.

If you’re based in Noida or nearby, consulting with an experienced specialist like Dr. Aprajita Srivastava can provide the clarity you need. Dr. Aprajita is a highly skilled gynecologist, IVF specialist, and laparoscopic surgeon in Noida, known for successfully handling complex fertility and high-risk pregnancy cases.

Here’s a detailed guide to the most important questions to ask your IVF doctor before beginning treatment.

1. Is IVF the Right Treatment for Me?

Not everyone struggling with infertility needs IVF immediately. Depending on your diagnosis, your doctor may suggest starting with IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) or lifestyle modifications.

For couples with unexplained infertility, mild male factor infertility, or ovulation disorders, doctors sometimes recommend trying IUI first. Typically, if 3–5 IUI cycles fail, IVF is the next step.

Understanding when IVF is recommended will help you choose the right path for your fertility journey. Learn more about the difference between IUI and IVF here.

2. What Tests Are Required Before Starting IVF?

Pre-treatment tests help identify the root cause of infertility and ensure you’re medically fit for IVF. These tests usually include:

• Ovarian reserve testing (AMH levels, FSH, LH)
• Ultrasound of ovaries and uterus
• Semen analysis for male partner
• Genetic carrier screening
• Hormonal assessments

At Dr. Aprajita Srivastava’s IVF center in Noida, pre-IVF tests are customized based on the couple’s medical history to create the most effective treatment plan.

3. What is the IVF Success Rate for My Age Group?

Age plays a critical role in IVF success. On average:

• Women under 35 have a 40–50% success rate per cycle.
• Women over 40 have a 5–15% success rate per cycle.

Ask your doctor about the clinic’s live birth rate, not just pregnancy rates, for someone with your specific profile.

4. How Long Does the IVF Process Take?

The IVF timeline can vary. Typically, the stimulation and egg retrieval process takes about 10–14 days, followed by:

• Embryo fertilization in the lab
• Optional PGT-A testing (genetic testing of embryos)
• Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) after your uterus is prepared

From start to finish, IVF may take 6–8 weeks including waiting periods for genetic testing results and embryo preparation.

5. Do You Recommend Fresh or Frozen Embryo Transfer?

Many modern clinics prefer Frozen Embryo Transfers (FET) over fresh transfers because:

• FET has higher success rates
• It allows time for genetic testing (PGT-A)
• It reduces the risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

6. Should I Transfer One or Multiple Embryos?

Although transferring multiple embryos was common in the past, today most clinics recommend Single Embryo Transfer (SET) to:

• Reduce risk of multiple pregnancies
• Avoid complications like preterm birth or miscarriage

Talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of both approaches for your case.

7. Do I Need Genetic Testing for My Embryos?

Your doctor may recommend:

• PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy) – Checks for chromosomal abnormalities
• PGT-M (Monogenic Disease Testing) – For couples with known genetic risks

These tests increase the chances of selecting a healthy embryo and reduce the risk of genetic disorders.

8. What Are the Costs Involved in IVF?

IVF involves several expenses beyond the procedure itself, including:

• Fertility medications
• Blood tests and scans
• Embryo freezing and storage
• PGT-A or PGT-M (if needed)
• Consultation and follow-up visits

At Dr. Aprajita’s clinic, the team provides transparent cost breakdowns and financial counseling to help couples plan accordingly.

9. What Happens to Unused Embryos?

Patients can choose to:

• Keep embryos in storage for future use
• Donate to other couples
• Donate for research (where permitted)
• Discard (only with written consent)

Discuss your options with your specialist and sign appropriate consent forms in advance.

10. Are There Any Risks or Side Effects of IVF?

IVF is generally safe, but like any medical procedure, it carries potential risks:

• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
• Injection site pain or bloating
• Emotional stress or mood swings
• Pregnancy risks (especially with multiple pregnancies)

An experienced IVF specialist will monitor your progress to reduce risks and manage any side effects promptly.

Additional Tips Before Starting IVF

Choose the Right Specialist

Selecting an experienced fertility expert is as important as the treatment itself. Dr. Aprajita Srivastava, based in Sector 121, Noida, specializes in IVF, IUI, laparoscopy, and high-risk pregnancy management. Her personalized care approach ensures that each couple receives tailored guidance based on their individual fertility journey.

Prepare Mentally and Physically

IVF can be emotionally challenging. Support groups, counseling, and mindfulness practices can help you cope better. Also, discuss:

• Fertility-boosting diets
• Exercise routines
• Managing work-life balance during treatment

For more guidance, check out this IVF preparation guide.

Final Thoughts

Your first consultation with an IVF specialist sets the tone for your fertility journey. Asking the right questions will help you feel confident, informed, and empowered.

If you’re ready to start your IVF journey in Noida, consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. Aprajita Srivastava. Her clinic offers advanced reproductive treatments with compassionate care to help couples achieve their dream of parenthood.