Photo: iStockphoto
With infertility now affecting one in six couples, many Canadians are opting to pursue alternative methods of becoming parents, including adoption and various assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Hoping to mitigate the often prohibitive cost of IVF for patients who are struggling with infertility, a handful of provincial governments have introduced publicly funded programs. These programs cover some of the costs associated with the treatment, which can otherwise run upwards of $10,000 per cycle. Ontario, which launched its IVF funding model last December, became the fourth province to have such a program, joining Manitoba, Quebec and New Brunswick.
IVF treatments can be physically, emotionally and financially taxing. Before you embark on this choice, it?s important for prospective patients to be as informed as possible. Here are five things you should keep in mind. 1. Research the process

Before deciding to pursue IVF, patients should try to understand the treatment process and what is involved in each step. Being well informed is the best way to be mentally prepared for the emotional and physical changes that IVF can bring. Success rates vary from clinic to clinic, so don?t be afraid to ask what your chances of having a baby are with a particular treatment.
Patients living in Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick should also look into their province?s respective IVF funding programs to learn which services...