In Vitro Fertilization

October 1, 2013

In vitro fertilization (IVF), often the last, best hope for infertile couples, is complicated and costly, so those considering it need detailed, accurate information to guide their decisions. This updated edition of Sher's work will help them understand their options and make educated choices. In the first chapters, Sher (Sher Institutes for Reproductive Medicine), family nurse practitioner Virginia Marriage Davis, and freelancer Jean Stoess cover reproductive anatomy and physiology and all stages of IVF: acceptance into a program, preliminary testing, ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization and embryo assessment, and embryo transfer. Subsequent chapters address causes of infertility and treatment options, realistic expectations for IVF, choosing an IVF program, common questions and concerns, and ways to make IVF more accessible, effective, and affordable. The authors approach controversial issues (e.g., selective reduction) nonjudgmentally, focusing on medical rather than moral aspects. While most of the book seems to refer to heterosexual couples, a section for same-sex couples takes a positive perspective of the issue. VERDICT The complicated, in-depth explanations of medical and physiological processes may challenge all but the most medically literate readers, but this level of detail should help consumers make more knowledgeable decisions and perhaps improve the odds that they will become parents. Recommended for infertile couples and anyone who wants to learn more about IVF.--Janet Crum, City of Hope Lib., Duarte, CA

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