A journey through IVF: Hope, challenges, and a long-awaited child

Starting IVF treatment can feel both significant and overwhelming. In this interview, a couple shares their journey – from their early reflections on having children to the decision to seek help and undergo IVF. They speak openly about uncertainty, hope, and the support they received along the way, and how the treatment ultimately led to what they longed for most.

Have you always wanted to have children?

No, it wasn’t always completely clear that we wanted children. It was a well-thought-out decision that came after a long period of reflection and many conversations. Earlier, we felt unsure whether we were ready to become parents, with all the responsibility that comes with it, and whether other aspects of life (work, housing, finances, etc.) felt stable enough.

When did you realize you needed help to achieve a pregnancy?

We contacted Ovumia after trying to conceive for about seven months to find out if there might be a medical reason why it wasn’t happening. At that point, we underwent a fertility assessment.

How did you decide that IVF was the next step for you?

The diagnosis was unspecified female infertility, so there was no clear cause in our case. The doctor recommended IVF due to our age. I was 38 and my husband was 40 when we started treatment. The clinic then referred us for regionally funded IVF treatment.

What made you choose Ovumia?

I had previously been in contact with Ovumia Helsinki for a fertility check (consultation, gynecological exam, and AMH test). So it felt natural to contact Ovumia again when it was time for further investigations, and we had heard they had opened a new clinic in Stockholm.

Did you have any thoughts or concerns before starting treatment?

Before the assessment, I wasn’t sure if we were ready for IVF. It felt quite big, heavy, and in some ways a bit drastic. I was also unsure about how I would feel during the treatment, how time-consuming the process would be, and whether it would be possible to continue working as usual. One thing I remember from my first consultation with Dr. Nathalie was how she explained the process and described how embryos are formed and develop. I don’t remember her exact words, but I was almost moved by how beautifully she spoke about it, describing it as something almost miraculous. That somehow changed my whole perspective on IVF.

What was the most challenging part of the IVF process for you?

Living with the uncertainty of when—or if—we would succeed, and the waiting time recommended between treatments.

Was there anything that surprised you during the treatment journey?

It turned out to be easier than expected to adapt to the treatments, and I learned a lot—both about myself and about fertility along the way. We are also very happy and grateful that we became pregnant during our second embryo transfer, and our little daughter was born in May 2026, just one year after we started treatment.

How did you feel during the different stages of treatment?

A mix of everything: uncertainty, anticipation, frustration, worry, joy, more worry—and gratitude.

How did you experience the support from the Ovumia team during your treatment?

We met many different members of staff and experienced the care as warm and understanding. They took the time to answer many of our questions and concerns.

If you could go back, what would you say to yourselves at the beginning of your fertility journey?

That you will get through this. It’s a unique experience to be part of the IVF process, and in the end, everything will work out.

What would you say to someone currently going through IVF?

IVF is a world of its own. Take the support you need and find what helps you personally. Sometimes it can be talking to a good friend or others going through the same thing. Sometimes a bit of dark humor can help you move forward. As much as possible, try to live your life as normal during treatment and do things that bring you joy and energy.