IVF not first option: Experts warn Hyderabad couples against skipping basic infertility care

Medical experts in Hyderabad are raising alarms over the growing trend of couples being prematurely pushed into IVF treatment. They stress the need for counseling, lifestyle changes, and basic infertility assessments before considering IVF, whose success rate stands at just 45%.

Hyderabad: The growing number of fertility clinics in Hyderabad has raised concerns about childless couples being prematurely directed toward In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment. Many such couples have reported being referred for IVF by gynecologists without first being offered conservative, less invasive treatment options.

Senior gynecologists and obstetricians are urging a renewed focus on thorough counseling and the exploration of alternative treatment modalities before recommending IVF.

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A recent social media post by a childless couple from Hyderabad highlighted this concern. The couple claimed their gynecologist pressured them into opting for IVF without adequately exploring other possibilities. The post questioned whether couples are being unduly influenced by caregivers to undergo IVF without first trying conventional options.

So, when is the right time for IVF?

“Ideally, a couple should try to conceive without using contraceptives for at least two years. Most couples can achieve parenthood by following this approach. If they are unable to conceive after two years of consistent efforts, they should consult a gynecologist first—not an IVF center,” advises Dr. P. Dakshayani, Senior Obstetrician and Gynecologist, and Medical Superintendent of the Urban Community Health Centre, Amberpet.

Dr. Dakshayani, who specializes in high-risk pregnancies, adds that even after two years of unsuccessful attempts, there remains a strong possibility of conception through lifestyle modifications.

“IVF should be the last resort for infertility treatment, not the first. Before considering IVF, a couple’s reproductive health must be thoroughly evaluated. Simple lifestyle changes—such as adopting a healthy diet, exercising, preferring daytime work shifts for better sleep, and managing stress—can make a significant difference. Even couples in their 40s may be able to conceive naturally through these steps,” she emphasizes.

Senior gynecologists also stressed the importance of counseling before initiating IVF. “You can’t begin IVF blindly without first getting to know the couple. It’s true that IVF centers have mushroomed in Hyderabad in recent years, which has intensified competition. But gynecologists must not succumb to commercial pressures. Proper counseling and exploring all alternatives must come first. Similarly, couples should not approach IVF centers directly without guidance from a qualified gynecologist,” advises Dr. T. Usha Rani, former Superintendent of Niloufer Hospital and senior pediatrician.

Key Advice from Experts for Childless Couples

• Don’t rush into IVF treatment without medical guidance
• Try to conceive naturally for at least two years without contraceptives
• Most couples conceive within this period
• Lifestyle modifications can help even couples in their 40s
• Counseling is a critical component of IVF treatment
• Declining fertility rates in Telangana are fueling the IVF industry
• IVF centers need better regulation by the Directorate of Health
• IVF success rate is approximately 45%, not 100%