In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a complex and emotional journey for many couples, but as they deal with the challenges of infertility and hope for a successful pregnancy, privacy becomes an important concern. Understanding why couples want privacy, the myths and facts associated with it, and what kind of privacy issues they face is important for healthcare providers and society at large.
Why do couples going through the IVF process want privacy?
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Monika Narang, Senior Consultant – Fertility at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Ludhiana, shared, “The decision to undergo IVF is very personal and is often fraught with emotional, social and psychological challenges. Privacy is a way for couples to maintain control over their story and protect themselves from external pressures and judgements.” Here are some common reasons why couples want privacy:
- Emotional security: Infertility treatments can be emotionally exhausting. Couples may want to avoid invasive questions and unsolicited advice from well-intentioned but uninformed relatives and friends.
- social stigma: Despite advances in reproductive technology, there is still a social stigma associated with infertility and assisted reproductive technologies. Couples may fear being judged or pitied.
- Personal boundaries: Discussions about fertility often involve intimate details about a person’s sexual health and relationship, which many couples prefer to keep private.
- Result Uncertainty: IVF is not always successful at the first attempt, and couples may want to avoid the added pressure of telling others about a failure.
Myths and facts about confidentiality in IVF
Myth #1: IVF babies have developmental problems
Fact: This is not true at all. Babies born through IVF have parameters as good as those born naturally. Their growth and academic performance are as good as any naturally conceived baby.
Myth #2: IVF is a taboo procedure
Fact: Although some cultures and communities still view IVF with suspicion, it is widely accepted and practiced globally. Education and awareness are helping to reduce this stigma.
Myth #3: Semen is injected directly into the woman’s body
Fact: IVF involves the fertilization of an egg with sperm outside the body in a laboratory. The resulting embryo is then transferred to the uterus.
Myth #4: IVF can be postponed until age 40
Fact: While IVF can help older women conceive, success rates are higher when the treatment is done at a younger age. Women in their 30s tend to have better results than women in their 40s.
Privacy issues raised by couples
1. Do not tell relatives
Many couples prefer not to tell their extended family about the IVF process. This is to avoid unnecessary pressure, questions, and potential judgement. Family dynamics can sometimes complicate the emotional stress of the IVF process, so maintaining a level of confidentiality can provide emotional relief.
2. You don’t want to give a face to your story
Some couples prefer to keep their IVF journey a secret from people or their community. This helps them avoid becoming the subject of gossip or a case study for others. They want their journey to remain private and intimate.
3. Do not want to discuss problems related to sex
IVF often involves addressing sensitive issues related to sexual health. Couples may find it uncomfortable or embarrassing to discuss these matters openly, so they prefer to keep such discussions confined to the privacy of their doctor’s office.
4. After successful results, do not tell anyone that we underwent IVF
Even after a successful pregnancy and birth, some couples prefer not to disclose that they used IVF. This may stem from a desire to avoid stigma or protect their child from potential prejudice in the future.
5. Is IVF a taboo procedure?
In some cultures, IVF is still considered taboo. Couples may face criticism or a lack of support from family members with traditional views on pregnancy. Secrecy helps them avoid these negative reactions.
6. Not ready for IVF due to family pressure or parental influence
Some couples may face resistance from their families when considering IVF due to cultural or religious beliefs. Keeping their treatment private allows them to pursue the best course of action for themselves without outside interference.
7. IVF is expensive and the medications take a toll on your body
The financial burden and physical toll of IVF treatment can be enormous. Discussing these aspects openly may lead to unsolicited financial advice or feelings of pity, which couples may prefer to avoid.
8. Myth about semen being inserted into a woman’s body
There are many misconceptions about the IVF process, including how fertilization is achieved. These misconceptions can lead to awkward or invasive questions, leading couples to maintain confidentiality.
9. IVF and age matters – IVF does not mean we start planning at the age of 40. Age 30 is the best time to plan
The timing of IVF is very important. Couples may prefer to keep their fertility plans private to avoid judgement or pressure related to their age and the perceived urgency of conceiving.
Dr. Monika Narang said, “Confidentiality is a fundamental concern for couples undergoing IVF. It allows them to go through their journey with dignity, free from judgement, pressure and unnecessary emotional stress. Healthcare providers, including embryologists, gynaecologists and andrologists, must respect and protect this confidentiality during the counselling and treatment process. Empathy, confidentiality and understanding are key in supporting couples through their IVF journey.”
By identifying and addressing the myths and facts surrounding IVF and addressing confidentiality issues faced by couples, we can create a more supportive and respectful environment for those seeking to start a family through assisted reproductive technologies. Confidentiality matters because it gives couples the emotional space they need to focus on their treatment and ultimately realize their dream of becoming parents.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor for any questions about any medical condition.
