The Couple's Guide To In Vitro Fertilization: Everything You Need To Know To Maximize Your Chances Of Success

by Liza Charlesworth

Despite the fact that it is an expensive, complex, emotionally draining, and often last-ditch fertility treatment, there are now over 250,000 couples who consider in vitro fertilization (IVF) every year; more than 125,000 couples decide to undergo it. While dry, clinical information is available, there is a gaping need for sisterly advice from someone who's been through the process herself.From evaluating care and preparing for the complicated process to understanding egg retrieval and embryo transfer; from tips on taking medications and coping with hormonal surges to dealing with the emotional aspects of the grueling IVF process, Liza Charlesworth's The Couple's Guide to In Vitro Fertilization offers knowing, sensitive counsel. Full of hard-won personal wisdom and the most up-to-date medical information explained in layman's terms, this invaluable guide is sure to become recommended reading for couples trying to conceive and their families alike.

312 pages, Paperback

First published April 14, 2004

Reviews

[Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

A bit out of date (the version I have is from 2004) but the information and tips are relevant. Really got me prepared for what to expect during my IVF cycle.

[Jennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting book, accessibly written, and I learned a lot.

[Shana · Rating 5 out of 5]

For anyone who is investigating the process of in-vitro, I would highly recommend this book. I knew much of the detailed information about the process before reading this, but found the prospective of the author (who has gone through it and had a successful result) helpful.

While I highly enjoy a scientific, non-emotional perspective on genetics and reproduction, this is a highly emotional subject. Liza echoes many of the feelings that my husband and I have experienced over the years since trying to have children unsuccessfully. It's comforting to know that someone else has been there and felt many of the same feelings of frustration, despair, fear, and longing.

There were even some aspects of the in-vitro process that I hadn't considered and were not discussed initially with any of the doctors we have talked with in person. The book is very comprehensive and resonates with both men and women.

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book describes the process of in vitro fertilization in layman's terms. It also contains many inspiring stories about previous IVFers who had successful cycles. How much you'll get out of this book probably depends on the amount of research you have already done. I've already done a ton of research in preparation for my cycle, so I would have to say that the content in the book was pretty much just a repeat of what I already knew. However, there was some interesting new content in the book that I wasn't familiar with, such as how an embryologist goes about cryopreserving embryos. The book is very thorough, but it is not too technical, which makes it fun to read. If you are just starting out into the process of IVF and have a lot of questions, I would definitely recommend this book as a great starting out point. If possible, I suggest reading it prior to your IVF consult with your RE. Good luck!

[Jill E · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is beneficial for those who have very limited knowledge of In Vitro Fertilization and the IVF process. The author is great about sharing details; however, things like the cost analysis are already out-of-date, unfortunately. Overall great read for newbies of the IVF world, but not for couples looking for more than the basics.

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book came out in 2004 so it is up to date and explains the entire IVF process in clear terms. It offers a thorough explanation of the process, emotional support and good advice.