Pregnancy & Birth

IVF treatment: Are you both ready?

While IVF offers hope to those who are struggling to conceive it is by no means a guaranteed method of having a baby.

It can be an emotional rollercoaster of ups and downs and can bring heartache.

Although success rates are increasing and more advanced methods, such as the 'embryo quality check', are constantly improving couples' chances of having a child - it is vital that you and your partner discuss the treatment before you go ahead.

Make sure you ask these essential questions.

1. Would we consider adoption?

If you really want to be a parent this could be an option. For more information on adoption go to adoption.org.

2. Can we afford it?

Women under 40 are entitled to one free IVF attempt. Discuss how many further attempts you could afford. IVF fails more often than it succeeds. One in four women under 30 have babies after IVF, but only one in 10 by the age of 40.

In the know: IVF More facts on the miracle treatment.

IVF treatment involves regular trips to the hospital, many tests and numerous procedures. Talk through every stage of the process and make sure you both know exactly what is involved.

4. Is our relationship strong enough?

Even the happiest of couples find this time stressful, so if cracks are showing before, be sure your relationship is strong enough to survive the tough IVF process.