B'luru witnesses surge in IVF, egg freezing as couples opt to postpone parenthood

Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: In recent years, there has been a growing trend of couples in Bengaluru choosing IVF treatments and freezing eggs so that they can postpone starting their family. This trend is being driven by a number of factors.

According to a recent study by the Indian Society of Assisted Reproduction, the number of IVF cycles performed in Bengaluru has increased by 25% in the last five years.

The study also found that the average age of women undergoing IVF is now 33 years old, up from 30 years old just a few years ago. There are a number of reasons why couples are choosing to postpone starting their family.

One reason is that more women are now in the workforce and are delaying marriage and childbirth in order to focus on their careers. Another reason is the rising cost of living, which makes it more difficult for couples to afford to have children.

Finally, some couples are choosing to have more control over their fertility by freezing their eggs or embryos so that they can have children at a later date. The cost of IVF treatments and egg freezing can be expensive, but there are a number of government and private programs that offer financial assistance.

The Indian government's National Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Programme provides financial assistance to couples who meet certain criteria. There are also a number of private companies that offer IVF financing plans.

The decision to postpone starting a family is a personal one, but it is important to weigh the risks and benefits before making a decision. IVF treatments and egg freezing can be expensive, but they can also give couples peace of mind knowing that they have options if they decide to have children later in life.

According to Dr Srimathy Raman, a consultant at Rangadore Memorial Hospital in Bengaluru, “IVF is a personal choice for couples and it does come with several risks and benefits. Some risks include multiple and complicated pregnancies, growth issues with the fetus, and sometimes the mother is also old and with possible health issues that come with age.”

She opines that as long as the mother is aware of all the risks that come with IVF, it is an option. Other factors such as the expense that comes with the IVF cycle which in Bengaluru is around INR 150,000 and the success rate of IVF in Bengaluru is around 60% only.

If you are considering IVF treatments or egg freezing, it is important to talk to your doctor to discuss the risks and benefits of these procedures.

You should also research different clinics and programs to find the best option for you.