Title: Top IVF Myths & Misconceptions (Debunked)
- Corey Parchman
- Apr 11
- 3 min read
When you hear "IVF," what comes to mind? A long, expensive process? Hormones and needles? Maybe even the idea that it's only a "woman's thing"?
If you're anything like me, stepping into the world of IVF as a man was confusing, intimidating, and filled with a lot of misinformation. That’s why I wrote The IVF Playbook for Men—to offer real support, not just from the sidelines, but as a teammate who’s been in the trenches. Today, I’m tackling the biggest myths and misconceptions that can trip up men (and couples) as they start this journey.
Let’s clear the air and set the record straight.
Myth #1: IVF is only a woman’s journey.
Truth: IVF affects both partners—physically, emotionally, and financially. While much of the medical focus is on the woman’s body, men carry their own unique emotional and mental load. You’re not just a bystander. You’re a partner, a decision-maker, and often the emotional backbone when things get tough. You matter in this process. A lot.
Myth #2: If you're doing IVF, it means you're "broken."
Truth: Needing medical help to start a family doesn’t mean you're any less of a man or woman. Infertility affects 1 in 8 couples, and in about 30–40% of those cases, the issue stems from the male side. This is medical—not moral. It’s not about blame. It’s about finding a solution.
Myth #3: IVF always works on the first try.
Truth: I wish this one was true. But the reality is, IVF success isn’t guaranteed, especially not on the first round. Many couples go through multiple cycles. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that requires patience, preparation, and support. Success takes time—and sometimes, heartbreak and healing are part of that journey too.
Myth #4: You don’t need to worry about male fertility.
Truth: Male fertility absolutely matters. Things like stress, sleep, diet, alcohol, and even your job can impact sperm health. During our journey, I had to make real changes—what I ate, how I moved, how I managed stress. You’re 50% of this equation, so treat your body like it matters. Because it does.
Myth #5: IVF guarantees a baby.
Truth: IVF increases your chances—but it’s not a guarantee. It’s a powerful tool in the fertility toolkit, but success depends on many factors: age, diagnosis, egg and sperm quality, and even luck. Hope is essential, but so is managing expectations.
Myth #6: Real men don’t talk about IVF.
Truth: Real men do talk about IVF. And real strength? It looks like showing up, opening up, and supporting your partner—even when you're scared or hurting too. The silence around male infertility is one of the biggest reasons why so many men feel isolated during this process. But you don’t have to go through it alone. That’s why this Playbook exists.
Final Thoughts
IVF is complex—but with the right mindset and support, you can face it head-on. My goal isn’t just to share facts—it’s to give you the strength to show up every day as the partner, the protector, and eventually, the father you’re meant to be.
If you're on this journey, or even just starting to ask questions, The IVF Playbook for Men is here to walk with you through it all—with honesty, humor, and heart.
Let’s keep breaking the silence and rewriting the narrative—one myth at a time.
🔗 Preorder the book: The IVF Playbook for Men (May 21, 2025)🎧 Listen to the podcast: IVF Playbook for Men on Spotify & Apple📱 Follow along: @IVFPlaybookforMen on Instagram
You’re not alone. And neither am I. 💪
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