Everything you need to know about IVF, and the experts to seek out in your city
Scroll to the end for the Tweak tribe’s recommendations for trusted fertility specialists across the country
Let’s face it, living with a big fat desi family is like a never-ending episode of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa – full of love, high notes and maybe even the occasional unexpected contestant (looking at you, Sheila maasi) who doesn’t understand boundaries. But sometimes, building your own family feels more like a KBC hot seat moment – intense with sweaty palms, praying you don’t get it wrong.
There are perhaps only two truly democratic phenomena in our lives – cancer and infertility. It’s not us saying it, but Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General at the World Health Organisation (WHO). “The report reveals an important truth: infertility does not discriminate,” he said. The report in question found that around 17.5% of the adult population – roughly 1 in 6 worldwide – struggles with natural conception. Forget Knives Out and Agatha Christie novels; there’s enough secrecy and mystery shrouding in vitro fertilization or IVF in India to keep us scratching our heads.
But for the sake of our scalp health, we spoke to fertility experts across the country to put together a comprehensive guide that delves into the intricacies of IVF in India. This guide will take you on a step-by-step journey with professional voices as your pilot. We’ll explore the entire process, from the initial consultation and pre-treatment workup to egg retrieval and more, to provide a realistic roadmap for prospective parents and those curious about IVF in India.
Meet the experts
- Dr Ritu Hinduja is a fertility specialist at Nova IVF, Mumbai.
- Dr Sheetal Jindal is a senior fertility consultant at Jindal IVF, Chandigarh.
- Dr Saurav Prakash Maity is a fertility specialist, founder, and director of Rashmika Fertility, Kolkata.
- Dr Molina Patel is a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, fertility expert and aesthetic gynaecologist, Anand.
Everything you need to know about IVF in India
What is considered ‘infertility’?
Before diving into an evaluation of IVF in India, doctors typically recommend couples try for a baby naturally for around one year for women under the age of 35 years and six months for women more than 35 years. The time period can vary from case to case and takes into account factors like age and health conditions.
“Primary infertility is defined as failure to conceive after several tries of unprotected intercourse when the couple has not conceived before and is trying for the first time,” says Dr Maity, previously speaking to Tweak India about IVF in India.
Secondary infertility applies to couples who have been able to conceive at least once in the past but are now having difficulty getting pregnant again. This could be due to various factors that may have developed after the previous pregnancy and are best left for the experts to determine.
What is IVF?
IVF is a well-established fertility treatment that helps couples facing challenges with conception. During IVF, eggs are collected from the ovaries and fertilised with sperm in a controlled lab environment. The resulting embryos are then carefully transferred back to the womb for potential pregnancy.
This bypasses issues like blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count or unexplained infertility. It’s also an option for same-sex couples and individuals seeking a biological child. Additionally, IVF allows for pre-implantation genetic testing to screen embryos for genetic disorders, reducing the risk of passing them on.
How does IVF work?
How long does an IVF cycle take?
An IVF cycle typically lasts two to six weeks, depending on individual circumstances and clinic protocols. The process usually begins with an initial consultation and fertility assessment, during which medical history and diagnostic tests are reviewed.
Following this, hormone injections initiate ovarian stimulation, typically lasting 10 to 14 days. Throughout this phase, the woman’s response to medication is monitored via ultrasound and hormone tests.
Once the eggs are deemed mature, they are retrieved during a minor surgical procedure, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes and is done under sedation. Meanwhile, the male partner provides a sperm sample for fertilisation.
The eggs and sperm are then combined in a laboratory dish, and fertilisation is monitored over the next few days.
After a period of embryo culture, typically lasting five to six days, one or more embryos are selected for transfer into the woman’s uterus. The embryo transfer procedure is relatively quick, usually taking 5 minutes and often done without anaesthesia.
Following the transfer, a pregnancy test is typically conducted about two weeks later to determine if implantation has occurred.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with IVF?
Inherently, IVF, like any medical procedure, carries potential risks and side effects. Here are some things to consider, according to the experts:
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): This condition, characterised by swollen and painful ovaries, can occur due to hormonal stimulation during IVF. However, with proper monitoring and management by a qualified fertility specialist, the risk of OHSS is minimal.
- Multiple pregnancies: IVF can increase the chance of having multiples (twins, triplets, etc.), which can lead to higher risks for both the mother and babies during pregnancy.
- Ectopic pregnancy: There’s a small possibility of the embryo implanting outside the uterus, most commonly within the fallopian tube, leading to an ectopic pregnancy. These pregnancies cannot be taken to term.
- Miscarriage: The risk of miscarriage exists with IVF, as it does with natural conception.
- Discomfort and side effects: The egg retrieval process itself may cause temporary discomfort, bleeding or infection. Additionally, fertility medications may cause minor side effects like nausea, vomiting, mood swings or injection site reactions.
The majority of IVF procedures are safe. By being aware of the potential risks and openly communicating your medical history and the fears you have with your doctor, you can make informed decisions.
How many embryos are transferred?
The number of embryos transferred during IVF is carefully determined by factors such as the woman’s age, embryo quality and medical history. Legal guidelines, like the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act of 2021, recommend a conservative approach, advocating for a single embryo transfer, especially for younger women under 35, to minimise the risk of multiple pregnancies while maintaining a high success rate.
However, for women over 35 or those with a history of failed IVF cycles, transferring two embryos may be considered to enhance the chances of pregnancy. Nonetheless, this decision should be made in close consultation with a fertility specialist, taking into account factors like embryo quality and the woman’s overall health. Despite the potential benefits, the preference is often for single embryo transfer to mitigate the safety risks associated with multiple pregnancies, particularly as the woman’s age advances.
How does IVF impact emotional and mental well-being?
IVF treatment can deeply affect emotional well-being, often leading to stress, uncertainty and potential disappointment. The journey through IVF is akin to an emotional rollercoaster, characterised by alternating feelings of hope, anticipation and anxiety at each stage of the process. Hormonal medications utilised during treatment, such as injections containing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH), exacerbate mood swings, irritability and emotional sensitivity, further complicating the mental landscape.
In response to these challenges, it’s crucial for individuals and couples undergoing IVF to prioritize self-care and seek emotional support as needed. Specialized counselling services focusing on fertility-related issues offer a safe environment to process emotions, develop coping strategies and alleviate stress. Additionally, in-person or online support groups provide valuable opportunities to connect with others facing similar challenges, fostering a sense of community and understanding. Many fertility clinics and hospitals offer access to psychological counsellors who specialise in supporting couples emotionally throughout their IVF journey.
What are the success rates for IVF in India?
While IVF success rates can reach 60% over multiple cycles, each attempt is unique. Several factors influence your chances, including:
- Age: Younger women (typically under 35) have higher success rates due to healthier eggs.
- Cause of infertility: Addressing the underlying reason for needing IVF, such as sperm-related issues like low sperm count, endometriosis or hormonal imbalances, can improve your chances.
- Egg and sperm quality: Healthier eggs and sperm lead to better fertilization and embryo development.
- Embryo transfer: The number and quality of transferred embryos and preimplantation genetic testing (if used) can affect implantation success.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions in either partner can impact pregnancy.
- Clinic expertise: A clinic’s experience and technology can influence outcomes.
What factors can affect IVF success?
If IVF is unsuccessful, how long should we wait to try again?
The standard waiting time between IVF cycles is typically one full menstrual cycle, which is usually around four to six weeks. This allows your body time to recover from the hormonal stimulation medications used during the previous cycle. However, it can depend on the individual.
Medically, you may not be required to wait for a month. It all depends on what your fertility physician advises after sonography. There are back to back cycles done in case of women with poor ovarian reserve as well.
For some women, the waiting period allows physical recovery. Your body needs time to return to its normal hormonal balance after the stimulation medications used to produce mature eggs. IVF can be emotionally demanding. Taking a break allows you time to process the experience until you feel ready for another cycle.
IVF can also be expensive, so waiting gives you time to reassess your financial situation and consider alternative paths in consultation with your doctor.
What are the costs associated with IVF in India?
The estimated cost of one IVF cycle in India can vary depending on several factors, but generally falls within the range of ₹70,000 to ₹3,50,000. Factors like city, clinic/doctor of choice, type of procedures, medications and the number of cycles needed all influence the final expenditure.
Major cities with high living costs may have slightly more expensive clinics. Prices can vary in the same city from one doctor to another, some based on track record, experience and success rate. Newer facilities may charge less.
Basic IVF cycles are typically less expensive than those involving advanced techniques like intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) or preimplantation genetic testing (PGT).
Is there any financial aid or insurance that covers it?
In India, IVF and many other fertility treatments are typically not classified as medically necessary by insurance companies, resulting in limited or no coverage. According to reports, there are companies in India like Merck, Johnson & Johnson India, Titan Company, and Meesho that have employee benefits for those considering fertility treatments.
However, there are avenues for financial assistance or payment plans. Many fertility clinics offer financing options or payment plans to help spread out the cost of treatment over time. Some clinics also offer discount programs or income-based sliding scale fees for individuals who qualify.
Are there alternative fertility treatments to IVF in India?
There are no alternative treatments for IVF. However, there are fertility treatments, such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) and using donor eggs or sperm. Donor options are for those who can’t conceive with their own gametes. IVF is the most effective, but is costlier and more invasive. A fertility specialist can help you choose the best option based on factors like age and preferences.
Fertility specialists and clinics recommended by the Tweak tribe
Mumbai
Dr Ameet Patki, Fertility Associates, 022-26044333
Dr Firuza Parikh, Fertiltree, 022-66573175
Dr Grishma Desai, Nowrozjee Wadia Maternity Hospital, 022-24146964/65/66/67.
Dr Hrishikesh Pai, Bloom IVF, 9871717305, 8433732400
Dr Jatin Shah, Mumbai Fertility Clinic and IVF Centre, 022-66908000
Dr Kiran Coelho, Surya Hospital: 022-61538989, Lilavatai Hospital: 9833100864, and PD Hinduja Hospital: 022-30918989
Dr Milind V Wankhede, Womb IVF & Fertility Centre, 8591356186/9890346513
Dr Mukesh Agrawal, Aarush IVF & Endoscopy Centre, Malad: 022-2806 0051/52/53, and Mira Road: 022-8110841/42/43
Dr Nozer Sheriar, Aviva clinic, 022-26481982
Dr Ranjana Dhanu, 9820044268
Dr Ritu Hinduja, Nova IVF, 9869322828
Dr Sejal Ajmera, 9870754819
Dr Shruti Parikh, Cloudnine Fertility, 9972899728
Dr Soumil Trivedi, Dr Trivedi’s Total Health Care, 9321587821, 022-61480707, 022-21022875 and 022-21023920
Dr Sudha Tandon, Dr Aditi Tandon and Dr Amrita Tandon, Chembur: 9167680410 and Vashi: 9833044930
Dr Swati Allahbadia, IVF Rotunda, 8282808012
Dr Varun Shah, Inception IVF, 9819090393
National Capital Region (NCR)
Dr Anjali Chaudhary, Aarogya Hospital, 011-41168499, ext. 257
Dr Anjali Kumar, CK Birla Hospital: 012-34543465, and The Gynae Clinic: 011-61260801, ext. 267
Dr Bhavna Mittal, Shivam IVF & Infertility Centre, 9810740459
Dr Bindu Garg, Neelkanth Hospital, 7669054615
Dr Gunjan Gupta Govil, Gunjan IVF World, Noida: 7042874533, New Delhi: 7042874533, Meerut: 7042874533, Ghaziabad: 7042874533
Dr Mandavi Rai and Dr Deepali Mehra Jain , Indira IVF, 18003092323
Dr Nishi Singh, Prime IVF, 9026869869
Dr Reeta Mahey, AIIMS, 011-26588500/26588700
Dr Sunita Arora, Fortis La Femme hospital, 9910264379, 011-42213880, ext. 216
Hyderabad
Dr Durvasula Ratna, Rainbow Hospitals, 18002122
Dr Runa Acharya, Umdaa Health Care, 9100948181, 9100462015
Dr Vyjayanthi S, Kims Hospital, 040-44885000
Bengaluru
Dr Anagha Nawal, Archish Fertility and IVF, 9953515836
Dr Apoorva Pallam Reddy, Phoenix Speciality Clinic, 8050325050
Dr Aviva Pinto Rodrigues, Nova IVF, 8049388781
Dr Lakshmi Kumari A, Archish Fertility and IVF, 9953515836
Dr Rashmi Yogish, Khushi Fertility & IVF Centre, 7349200888, 7349200222, 80-26585004, 80-26584004
Dr Shilpa Ellur, Milann The Fertility Specialists, 7039169622
Kochi
Dr Vijayalakshmi Pillai, Vijayalakshmi Medical Centre, 9946932600
Chandigarh
Dr Nirmal Bhasin, Jannee Fertility Centre, 7508281399
Dr Nitasha Gupta, Indira IVF, 18003092323
Dr Preeti Jindal, The Touch Clinic, 9915748821, 0172-5032467
Dr Sheetal Jindal, Jindal IVF, 0172-4911000, 9582499479
Mohali
Dr Parampreet Kaur Ghuman, Max Healthcare, 9268880303
Dr Navpreet Buttar, 9779200841
Ahmedabad
Dr Azadeh Patel, ART Fertility Clinics, 8282826002
Dr Himanshu Bavishi and Dr Janki Parth Bavishi, Bavishi Fertility Institute, 9712622288
Anand
Dr Nayana H Patel and Dr Molina Patel, Akanksha Hospital, 7069255511, 02692-617300
Pune
Dr Asmita Potdar, Cloudnine Fertility, 9972899728
Dr Manasi Naralkar, Sahawas Hospital, 8261808915, and Dr Patankar Hospital, 9552587152
Dr Pallavi Tiple, 9967050566
Dr Sanat Pimpalkhare, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Centre, 2049153347/3396
Dr Sunita Tandulwadkar, Ruby Hall Clinic, 2071177307, ext. 908
Dr Swadha Gaurav, Auradale, 9890852912, 9689892912
Surat
Dr Mona Shroff, Nova IVF, 08049388781
Dr Yuvrajsingh Jadeja and Dr Pooja Nadkarni Singh, Nimaaya, 261-6119900
Visakhapatnam
Dr GA Rama Raju, Krishna IVF Clinic, 9603910004, 8912538194, 8912538195
Indore
Dr Archana Baser, Akash Hospital, 079-71266012, ext. 643
Dr Shefali Jain, Asian Institute of Infertility Management, 180041227847
Jaipur
Dr Anju Mathur, Mangalam Hospital, 011-40036578, ext. 528
Agra
Dr Narendra Malhotra, Ujala Cygnus Rainbow Hospitals, 9146691466, 011- 41750891
Kolkata
Dr Saurav Prakash Maity, Rashmika Fertility, 9831809700
Kozhikode
Dr Bavin Balakrishnan, Baby Memorial Hospital, 495-2723272, 495-3535353
This article has been reviewed by Dr Ritu Hinduja for accuracy.
A note of caution: This article is for educational purposes with inputs from trained medical professionals. Please consult your healthcare provider to find the best treatment plan for you and your needs.
