Counselling

Undergoing IVF can be emotionally and physically draining. It is important that couples are offered counselling where appropriate, for example to understand the implications of treatment or for support at a critical time (for example, if an IVF cycle has failed).

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommends that counselling should be offered before, during and after IVF treatment (regardless of the outcome of the procedures) by someone who is not directly involved in the management of the couple's fertility problems. 

For more information, see HFEA: benefits of counselling and how to access it.

Adapting to parenthood

It is not uncommon for couples who have been successful in their attempts to start a family to find it difficult to adjust to their new life. It is important to seek help from health professionals (for example your fertility consultant, GP, midwife or health visitor). 

Contacting a fertility support group and talking with others who can empathise with your experiences can also be helpful.

IVF

IVF stands for in vitro fertilisation. An egg is surgically removed from a woman and fertilised by a sperm outside the body.