Having difficulty conceiving and starting IVF (in vitro fertilisation) can be one of the most significant emotional, physical, and financial commitments on your fertility journey.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore assisted conception to get pregnant or are preparing to begin treatment, understanding what lies ahead is essential.

At The IVFN, we believe informed decisions lead to empowered outcomes, and our community and team of experts have countless experiences to draw on.

From clinical preparation to emotional support and everything in between, here are ten key things to consider before you start IVF.

1. Understand the Basics of In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

IVF involves several steps as part of assisted reproductive technology. The IVF process typically starts with fertility medicine to stimulate ovulation, helping the ovaries produce eggs. Human chorionic gonadotropin is often used to trigger ovulation before the egg retrieval procedure. During egg retrieval, mature eggs are collected from the ovaries. The egg retrieval procedure is a key step, and only mature eggs can be fertilised to create a fertilised egg that may develop into an embryo.

Fertilisation is performed in the laboratory, sometimes using intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), especially in cases of male infertility. After fertilisation, either fresh embryos can be transferred to the uterus soon after, known as fresh embryo transfer, or frozen embryos can be stored for later use and transferred after a freezing and thawing process. Not all embryos survive the freezing and thawing process, so understanding this step is important.

Patients may use their own eggs or opt for an egg donor if they cannot produce eggs themselves. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is a potential risk of fertility medications used during IVF.

The treatment can vary depending on personal circumstances, such as age, underlying fertility conditions, or whether donor sperm or eggs are used.

Ask your fertility clinic for a clear breakdown of the process and timeline tailored to you.

For more information, read our guide, which breaks down the treatment process step by step.

2. Finding the Right Fertility Clinic

Choosing the right fertility clinic is a crucial step on your path to getting pregnant. With so many options available, it’s important to do your research and select a clinic that aligns with your needs and values. Start by ensuring the clinic is fully licensed and accredited by reputable organisations, such as the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) in the UK. This guarantees that the clinic meets strict standards for safety and quality in fertility treatments.

Success rates are another key factor; look for clinics with strong outcomes in in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and other assisted reproductive technologies. The HFEA website provides transparent data on clinic performance, helping you make an informed choice. Consider the expertise of the clinic’s team, including doctors, nurses, and embryologists, as their experience can make a significant difference in your fertility journey.

Success rates for IVF vary widely depending on factors such as age, embryo quality, and medical history. Success rates for IVF pregnancy also depend on the expertise of the treatment centre, and can vary between fresh and frozen embryo transfers.

The likelihood of having a healthy baby is influenced by age, causes of infertility, and the quality of embryos used. IVF treatments carry a risk of multiple pregnancies and multiple births, which can pose health risks for both mother and babies; clinics often limit the number of embryos transferred to reduce the chance of multiple pregnancy. According to HFEA, the average live birth rate per IVF cycle in women under 35 is around 32%. This rate drops as age increases.

However, success rates aren’t one-size-fits-all. They don’t reflect your personal situation, so while they offer a guide, they shouldn’t define your expectations. Talk to your clinician about your specific chances based on your fertility profile.

For more information, read our blog: What are the success rates of IVF?

It’s also wise to review the range of fertility treatments offered, from IVF and intrauterine insemination (IUI) to options involving donor eggs or sperm. Cost and financing options can vary widely, so ask for a clear breakdown of fees and available payment plans. Patient reviews and testimonials can offer valuable insights into the clinic’s reputation and the experiences of others who have undergone similar treatments.

Finally, think about practicalities such as location, ease of access, and appointment flexibility. A conveniently located fertility clinic can make the process less stressful, especially during frequent visits. By taking these steps, you’ll be better equipped to find a clinic that supports your goal of getting pregnant and provides the care you deserve.

3. Explore the Costs Involved

In the UK, IVF may be funded by the NHS depending on your location and circumstances – this is accessed by specific criteria – but many people also access private treatment.

A single IVF cycle can cost anywhere from £4,000 to £8,000, excluding additional costs like medication, embryo freezing, or genetic testing. Costs can also vary depending on the treatment centre you choose.

Consider the full financial picture before starting treatment, including the potential for multiple rounds.

You can find out more about NHS-funded treatments and waiting lists.

4. Fertility Preservation: Is It Right for You?

Fertility preservation is an increasingly popular option for individuals and couples who want to safeguard their ability to have children in the future. There are many reasons you might consider preserving your fertility. For some, medical treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation can impact fertility, making it important to take proactive steps before starting therapy. Others may be aware that fertility declines with age and wish to freeze eggs or sperm to keep their options open for later family planning.

If you have a genetic disease, fertility preservation can also provide peace of mind, allowing you to explore options like preimplantation genetic testing to reduce the risk of passing on certain conditions. Lifestyle factors, such as career ambitions or financial planning, may also influence your decision to delay childbearing and consider preserving your reproductive potential.

The main fertility preservation options include egg freezing, sperm freezing, and embryo freezing. Egg freezing allows you to store mature eggs for future use in IVF, while sperm freezing is a straightforward way to preserve male fertility for later use in IVF or intrauterine insemination. Embryo freezing involves creating embryos through IVF and storing them for future transfer.

Consulting with a fertility specialist is essential to determine if fertility preservation is right for you. They can explain the process, discuss the risks and benefits, and help you develop a personalised plan based on your medical history and future goals. Taking this step can provide reassurance and flexibility as you navigate your fertility journey.

5. Check Your BMI and Lifestyle Factors

BMI (body mass index) is often considered when assessing IVF eligibility, especially on the NHS. Many clinics require a BMI between 19 and 30 for treatment to proceed. A higher or lower BMI can affect treatment outcomes and medication response.

Smoking, alcohol, and high caffeine intake can also negatively impact fertility. Making lifestyle changes can help improve your chances.

Speak to your GP or clinic about pre-conception health and any support you need to optimise your lifestyle.

Check out our guide on IVF and BMI.

6. Discuss Treatment Plans with Your Partner & Understand the Emotional Impact it Might Have on You Both

IVF can be emotionally challenging, from the hormonal ups and downs to the waiting periods and potential disappointments. Feelings of anxiety, isolation, and loss of control are common

IVF affects both partners, and it’s crucial to go into the process with clear communication. From decisions about how many embryos to transfer to handling potential failed cycles, alignment and understanding are vital.

Couples may also want to discuss how they’ll manage stress, attend appointments and balance work responsibilities during treatment.

It’s a good idea to consider counselling — many clinics offer it as part of their package, and it can be invaluable for joint decision-making.

Having a support system in place is essential. Whether it’s a partner, friend, therapist or a peer support group, don’t go through it alone.

The IVFN community and expert-led broadcasts offer emotional support and guidance every step of the way.

7. Be Aware of Legal and Ethical Considerations

If you’re using donor sperm, donor eggs or a surrogate, UK law sets out specific legal frameworks to protect everyone involved. You may need to consider parental rights, donor anonymity and legal parenthood.

For same-sex couples, solo parents or those planning to store embryos for future use, understanding legal implications upfront is essential.

Ask your clinic to explain all legal documentation involved, and speak with a fertility solicitor if using donors or surrogacy.

8. Understand the Role of Ovarian Reserve Testing and Add-Ons

Some clinics offer additional treatments or tests, such as time-lapse imaging, genetic screening, or endometrial receptivity analysis. These are known as IVF “add-ons” and can increase the cost of treatment. Fertility tests are an important part of the pre-treatment assessment.

Common fertility tests include ovarian reserve testing (to assess egg supply), semen analysis (to evaluate sperm health), and blood tests for hormones like follicle-stimulating hormone. A physical examination and a review of sexual history are also typically part of the initial fertility evaluation.

While some have strong scientific backing, others may not significantly improve outcomes. The HFEA provides a traffic light rating system for these options.

Always ask your clinic why a specific add-on is recommended for you, and check the evidence behind it.

9. Prepare for the Time Commitment

IVF treatment takes time, physically and emotionally. A single cycle can take 4–6 weeks, and appointments may need to be scheduled at short notice for scans, blood tests, and procedures.

Balancing IVF with work, family, and other responsibilities can be difficult. Some people choose to take time off or reduce commitments during the most intensive stages.

If possible, talk to your employer in advance about flexible working arrangements. Fertility treatment is recognised under employment law, and some companies now offer paid leave.

10. Plan for Different Outcomes

It’s natural to hope IVF will work the first time – and for some, it does. But it’s also important to prepare for all possible outcomes, including unsuccessful cycles. Many people go through multiple IVF cycles as part of their infertility treatment journey, as success may require several attempts. There are various ways to treat infertility, and IVF is just one option among several medical interventions, such as fertility drugs, surgery, or intrauterine insemination. Some people may also consider options to preserve fertility for future attempts, like egg or embryo freezing.

It can also be helpful to think ahead:

  • Would you consider donor options?
  • Would you try again if it doesn’t work?
  • What’s your emotional or financial limit?

Having a flexible mindset doesn’t mean losing hope – it means being emotionally resilient and informed.

It’s your fertility journey

Undergoing IVF is a brave and deeply personal decision. There is no “right way” to do it, only what’s right for you. By considering these 10 points, you can enter treatment feeling prepared, supported, and more in control of your fertility journey.

At The IVFN, we’re here to offer clarity, support, and expert guidance. From medical insights to emotional wellness, our content and community are designed to walk alongside you every step of the way.