The Couple's Guide to In Vitro Fertilization
Authors: Liza Charlesworth
Publisher: De Capo Press
ISBN: 0-7382-0897-3

IVF for most people is a private event that they will learn as they go through each cycle on their personal road to parenthood. This is that journey's guidebook. It is written very matter-of-factly with simple language even with technical terminology.

Written as a step by step "how to manual" of sorts, what it lacks in that personal touch it makes up for in sheer volume of information. It weighs in at 300 pages (at a bargain price of $16.95) and has 10 chapters with charts, graphs, sample calendars, resource guide, and a glossary of terminology.

For a "IVF for Dummies" type of book, I'd recommend this for its wealth of knowledge. I know I'm glad to have it in my arsenal of books when I understand this complex and nerve wracking procedure for myself. I believe most people will be able to use this guide and benefit from it. A great resource.

I found this book to be a bit boring and repetitve of all the info I have found on the web and through my doctors. It definitely appealed more to the emotional side, which is needed so much in this field, but I was looking for concrete suggestions on maximizing my chances with IVF and I didn't really find that in the book. It's a helpful read if you are just beginning the process and need some solid basic information, but not as helpful if you are already well informed.

When I found out we needed IVF in order to become parents, I didn't know much about it, didn't know anyone who had been through it, didn't live near any ART clinics, and was scared spitless... until I read this wonderful book. The author gives you sample schedules, explanations of typical procedures and medications, and many stories of what other people have been through. It is all in plain English, like you're talking to your best friend, but explains complicated terminology, and provides a great balance of being hopeful and yet logical/practical/cautious. We are now saving up for our first cycle and I feel very good about the process to come.

This book was a great read with a lot of useful information, which I found very helpful. Unfortunately the only down side to the book for me was it was primarily written for couples in USA only and as I do not live there I was unable to relate certain aspects to my own treatment, such as choosing a clinic and the financial side. Over all though some good information.information.

After reading all these reviews, I bought the book thinking I was buying THE infertility book must-have. It's OK. Not great, not bad, but not what the hype here led me to believe. I'll keep it in the library, but I'll be more careful about buying based on reviews here.