Top 5 Questions to Ask Before Starting IVF



Top 5 Questions to Ask Before Starting IVF
 Your Guide to Making Informed Fertility Decisions – with the Experts at Isha Women’s Hospital, Dombivali
Are you considering IVF but feeling confused, anxious, or overwhelmed by the process? You’re not alone. IVF is a powerful fertility treatment, but success starts with asking the right questions.
Isha Women’s Hospital believes that every hopeful parent deserves clarity, compassion, and world-class fertility care. Led by Dr. Chinmay Pataki, one of the best IVF & Male infertility experts, and also one of the top gynaecologists in Thane district, Isha Women Hospital combines cutting-edge technology with a deeply personal approach to treatment.
With over 10,000+ successful IVF cycles, 100+ micro-TESE surgeries, and one of the most advanced IVF labs in the region, Isha Women


Why You Must Ask the Right IVF Questions

When you’re preparing to undergo IVF, it’s completely normal to feel nervous, overwhelmed, and even a bit confused. After all, IVF isn’t just a treatment — it’s a deeply personal journey filled with hope, science, and emotion. That’s why asking the right questions before starting your IVF cycle is so important.
IVF Is Not One-Size-Fits-All
Many people assume that IVF follows a standard path. But the reality is — no two IVF journeys are exactly alike. What worked for your friend or someone on a YouTube vlog may not be suitable for you.
At Isha Women Hospital in Dombivali, Dr Chinmay Pataki treats each couple as unique. Why?
Because factors like:
  • A woman’s age and ovarian reserve
  • Her hormonal profile
  • The exact cause of infertility
  • The response to medications
  • And even the emotional readiness of the couple
play a huge role in determining how your IVF cycle should be designed.
That’s why personalised planning and open communication with your fertility specialist are critical.


Avoid Generic Internet Advice

In today’s digital world, it’s tempting to turn to the internet for answers. But fertility is highly individualized, and online forums or general videos can often mislead or confuse.
Instead, asking your IVF doctor directly will give you clarity tailored to:
  • Your medical condition
  • Your lab test reports
  • Your treatment history
  • And your goals for conception
Isha Women’s Hospital encourages couples to ask questions, no matter how big or small. Whether it's about egg quality, sperm freezing, embryo grading, or costs, we believe you deserve full transparency.
The More You Know, The Better You’ll Cope
Starting IVF is a big decision, and asking the right questions beforehand can help you feel prepared, confident, and in control of your journey. At Isha Women’s Hospital, Dr Chinmay Pataki believes every couple deserves clear, honest answers tailored to their specific situation.
Here are the Top 5 questions every couple should ask before beginning IVF:


Question 1: What Is My Likelihood of Success Based on My Age and Diagnosis?

One of the most common questions couples ask is, “What are our chances of success?”
The answer depends heavily on your age and fertility diagnosis. Here’s a general idea of average IVF success rates by age group:
Age Group Average - IVF Success Rate
  • Under 35 - 40–50%
  • 35–37 - 35–40%
  • 38–40 - 30–35%
  • Over 40 - 15–25%
But these are just averages. Your personal success rate will also depend on:
  • The quality of your eggs
  • Your partner’s sperm health
  • The condition of your uterus (endometrial lining)
  • Your hormonal balance and ovarian reserve


Question 2: What Tests Are Required Before Starting IVF?

Before beginning your IVF cycle, both partners will undergo a series of important tests. These tests are essential because they help design your treatment plan and predict how your body may respond to medications.
Common Pre-IVF Tests Include:
  • AMH, FSH, and LH levels – to evaluate your ovarian reserve
  • Antral Follicle Count (AFC) via transvaginal ultrasound
  • Semen analysis – to assess sperm count, motility, and morphology
  • Thyroid (TSH) and prolactin levels – for hormonal balance
  • Infectious disease screening – for conditions like HIV, hepatitis, syphilis, etc.
Depending on your history, your doctor may also recommend:
  • Hysteroscopy – to check the uterine cavity
  • Laparoscopy – if endometriosis or pelvic adhesions are suspected


Question 3: What Are the Risks and Side Effects of IVF?

Although IVF is generally safe, it’s important to be aware of possible side effects and how they are managed.
Risk and Details
  • OHSS (Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome) - Bloating, fluid retention, and ovarian swelling in response to fertility drugs
  • Multiple pregnancy - Rare now due to single embryo transfer protocols
  • Emotional stress - Common due to uncertainty and emotional investment
  • Medication side effects - Headaches, mood changes, breast tenderness, injection site reactions
At Isha Women Hospital, Dr. Chinmay Pataki closely monitors your response during ovarian stimulation to prevent OHSS and minimise other risks. Our team is always available to support you emotionally and medically, every step of the way.
With the right care, most side effects are temporary and manageable.


Question 4: What Are the Costs Involved – and What’s Included?

Understanding the financial aspects of IVF is critical. Different clinics include different services in their pricing, and hidden costs can quickly add up if you're not careful.
Cost Element and What It May Include
  • IVF cycle - Ovarian stimulation, monitoring, egg retrieval, embryo transfer
  • Medications - Some centres often bill them separately based on dosage
  • Lab procedures - ICSI, embryo freezing, blastocyst culture, PGT, etc.
  • Freezing - Storage of sperm, embryos, or eggs may cost extra
Isha Women’s Hospital offers:
  • Transparent, all-inclusive IVF packages
  • Clear written cost estimates before treatment
  • EMI/payment plans for financial flexibility


Question 5: What Happens If the First Cycle Fails?

It’s important to prepare yourself for the possibility that the first IVF attempt may not result in pregnancy. This does not mean failure – it’s part of the process for many couples.
Ask your fertility team:
  • What happens next if the first cycle doesn’t work?
  • Will you use frozen embryos for a second attempt (FET)?
  • Can medications or protocols be adjusted?
  • Are donor eggs/sperm an option if needed?
Choosing where to start your IVF journey is just as important as deciding to begin it. You deserve a fertility centre that not only offers advanced treatment options but also prioritises your emotional well-being, medical safety, and long-term success.
At Isha Women’s Hospital, Dombivli, we go far beyond simply “doing IVF.” Here’s what makes Isha Women Hospital the best IVF centre in Dombivali— and the preferred choice for couples across Mumbai.
Dr. Chinmay Pataki, the founder and medical director of Isha Women Hospital, is:
  • A highly experienced gynecologist, IVF specialist, and male infertility expert
  • The only male fertility specialist in the Thane district
  • A trusted name in treating complex infertility cases with compassion and success
With over 10,000 IVF cycles, 100+ micro-TESE surgeries, and 15,000+ laparoscopic procedures, Dr. Chinmay Pataki brings unmatched expertise and a personal touch to every case.


Advanced Technology Under One Roof

Our fully equipped fertility lab features:
  • Laser-assisted hatching
  • Time-lapse monitoring
  • Blastocyst culture
  • Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
  • ICSI, micro-TESE, and sperm freezing
With everything in-house, your treatment is streamlined, safe, and stress-free.
Also, Isha Women Hospital focus on:
  • Personalized IVF protocols based on your diagnosis and age
  • Honest discussions about success rates, risks, and expectations
  • Affordable packages with transparent pricing and EMI options
  • Supportive counseling before, during, and after treatment
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every plan is crafted just for you.


Ready to Start Your IVF Journey? Let’s Talk.

Asking the right questions is the first step. The second is choosing a team that listens, explains, and walks beside you through every stage.
Whether it’s your first cycle or your fourth, whether you’re dealing with male infertility, PCOS, or unexplained infertility — Isha Women’s Hospital is here for you.
Call now to book your consultation with Dr. Chinmay Pataki — and take your first confident step toward parenthood.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many IVF cycles are usually needed?
Ans - 1–3 cycles is common — some couples succeed in the first cycle, others take more.
2. Can I do IVF without hormone injections?
Ans - Minimal stimulation IVF is available but not suitable for all cases.
3. Is IVF painful?
Ans - Some discomfort with injections and egg retrieval — usually well-tolerated.
4. Can I work during my IVF cycle?
Ans - Yes, but reduce stress — your clinic may advise lighter work during key days.
5. Is Isha IVF Centre open on weekends?
Ans - Yes — consultations and procedures available on weekends for convenience.