Updated by the Progyny Editorial Team — September 2025.
In vitro fertilization (IVF) helps thousands of people each year to conceive, but many myths and misconceptions still surround this common fertility treatment.
During IVF, a reproductive endocrinologist retrieves mature eggs from a person’s ovaries. An embryologist fertilizes those eggs with carefully prepared sperm in a lab. After fertilization, the doctor transfers the embryo into the uterus with the goal of achieving pregnancy. IVF is considered a safe and highly effective assisted reproductive technology.
IVF is used by people experiencing infertility, as well as LGBTQ+ couples and single parents by choice who want a biological child. Unfortunately, online searches for fertility treatment often lead to misinformation that circulates on social media and message boards. To help separate fact from fiction, Dr. Arielle Bayer addresses some of the most common myths. Dr. Bayer is a double board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist at CCRM Fertility of New York.
Myth: IVF is always successful
Fact: IVF is an effective treatment, but there is no guarantee it will result in a live birth. IVF success can be influenced by many factors, including your age, weight, hormonal health, chromosomal abnormalities, and the quality of eggs and sperm. The lab also plays an important role, and success rates vary by clinic.
Dr. Bayer recommends reviewing a clinic’s IVF outcomes on SART.org. For certain patients, procedures such as preimplantation genetic testing, which checks embryos for chromosomal or genetic conditions before transfer, and intracytoplasmic sperm injection, a procedure where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg, may be beneficial. Talk with your doctor about your unique situation and what may improve your chances of success.
Myth: IVF is the only option for infertility
Fact: IVF is not the only way to grow your family if you are struggling to conceive. Many people have success with less invasive options, such as intrauterine insemination, a procedure where sperm is placed directly into the uterus, or timed intercourse cycles. The right treatment for you depends on your age, medical history, and fertility goals.
Myth: IVF always results in twins or multiples
Fact: IVF itself doesn’t substantially increase your risk of twins or multiples. That risk increases only when more than one embryo is transferred.
Advancements in technology have made single embryo transfer (SET) both safe and effective. SET means transferring one embryo at a time during IVF. It reduces the risks linked to multiple pregnancy for both the pregnant person and the baby.
The American Society for Reproductive Medicine, a leading professional organization for fertility specialists, recommends SET for most IVF cycles. Research has shown that patients who have a SET are more likely to deliver a single healthy baby compared with those who transfer two embryos. In select circumstances, transferring more than one embryo may still be an option, but we recommend talking with your doctor about SET to maximize safety and success.
Myth: IVF increases your risk of cancer
Fact: The majority of studies have shown no significant increase in cancer risk for people who use IVF. While people with infertility may already have a slightly higher baseline risk of some cancers, this is linked to genetic or health factors rather than fertility treatment itself.
Before starting treatment, doctors conduct a thorough medical history and ensure patients are up to date on screenings, such as Pap smears and mammograms when age-appropriate. Share any personal or family health concerns with your doctor so they can guide your care.
The bottom line
Every fertility journey is different, and treatment plans should be tailored to your medical history and goals. IVF may be the right path for some, while others benefit from different treatment approaches.
If you have questions or concerns, Progyny is here for you. Please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support.
Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.