When you’re considering IVF — or even just whispering the word for the first time — it’s amazing how quickly the myths start to pile up. “It always works.” “It never works after 40.” “You’ll end up with twins.” “It’s your fault if it fails.”

These misconceptions are not only confusing, but also deeply unhelpful — especially during a time when you’re already navigating emotional and medical complexity. This post is here to gently untangle the most common IVF myths and replace them with facts, compassion, and clarity.

Myth 1: IVF Guarantees a Baby

Reality: While IVF offers hope, it is never a guarantee. In the UK, success rates vary by age, diagnosis, and individual factors. According to the HFEA, women under 35 have around a 32% live birth rate per embryo transferred, while for women over 40, it drops below 10%. IVF can be life-changing — but it’s not magic.

Myth 2: IVF Is Only for Older Women

Reality: Fertility struggles don’t only affect people in their late 30s or 40s. Many younger couples and individuals — including those with male factor infertility, PCOS, or unexplained infertility — undergo IVF. It’s not about age; it’s about circumstances.

Related post: Why Can’t I Get Pregnant?

Myth 3: You’ll Definitely Have Twins

Reality: This myth stems from the early days of IVF, when multiple embryos were routinely transferred. Today, the NHS and UK clinics generally recommend single embryo transfer to reduce the risk of complications from multiple pregnancies. In fact, twin pregnancies are now considered higher risk and are actively avoided unless medically necessary.

Myth 4: It’s All the Woman’s Responsibility

Reality: Fertility is not just a ‘women’s issue.’ Around 40% of infertility cases are linked to male factors. Both partners should be tested and supported, and both may need treatment — including supplements, lifestyle changes, or sperm retrieval procedures.

Related post: What Men Can Do to Support IVF

Myth 5: IVF Works First Time

Reality: While some people are lucky on their first round, many need two, three, or even more cycles to achieve a pregnancy. That’s emotionally exhausting and financially draining, especially for those going privately. Expecting instant success can set you up for heartbreak.

Myth 6: IVF Is Always a Last Resort

Reality: IVF is sometimes used earlier in the process — especially in cases of blocked fallopian tubes, severe endometriosis, or when fertility preservation is needed (e.g., before cancer treatment). It’s not always the last step, and for some, it’s the most suitable first step.

Myth 7: It Doesn’t Work After 40

Reality: IVF success rates do decline with age — but many people in their early 40s still have successful pregnancies. Clinics might recommend donor eggs after a certain age, but IVF using your own eggs is still an option into your early 40s in many UK clinics.

Related post: How Fertility Changes with Age

Myth 8: You Can Just Freeze Your Eggs and Wait

Reality: Egg freezing is a brilliant advancement — but it’s not a foolproof backup plan. Success depends on your age at the time of freezing, how many eggs are retrieved, and how your body responds to IVF later. It's a tool, not a guarantee.

Myth 9: NHS Covers All IVF Costs

Reality: Access to NHS-funded IVF varies depending on your postcode and Integrated Care Board (ICB). Some areas offer up to 3 funded cycles, others only 1 — or none at all. Many couples end up going private due to eligibility restrictions or long wait times.

Related post: NHS vs Private IVF in the UK

Myth 10: IVF Is Just Physical

Reality: IVF is emotionally demanding — filled with hope, anxiety, grief, and (sometimes) joy. It’s vital to have emotional support, whether that’s through counselling, peer groups, or simply talking to others who’ve been through it.

Related post: How to Cope with the Emotional Side of IVF

Final Thoughts: You Deserve the Truth, Not the Pressure

There’s enough uncertainty in the IVF journey — you don’t need outdated myths or scaremongering to weigh you down. Get your information from evidence-based sources like the HFEA, talk to your clinic, and surround yourself with supportive, understanding voices.

You’re not alone in this. And the truth — even when it's complicated — is far kinder than fear.