IVF is a complicated process for parenthood. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t, and an expert reveals which lifestyle factors can affect the success rate of IVF.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a process where eggs are removed from a woman’s ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory. It is a treatment for couples who are having difficulty conceiving naturally. However, sometimes even after going through the IVF process, the fertilized eggs do not develop into embryos or the embryos do not implant in the uterus successfully. This is what we call a failed IVF cycle. It can be really disheartening and frustrating for couples who have gone through this. But a failed IVF cycle does not mean it is the end of the road. Many couples try again and sometimes succeed in subsequent cycles. India.com got in touch with Dr Shreeja Karan, Consultant, Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Fertility Specialist, Sarjapur Road, Bangalore, who explained the pros and cons of IVF and why it may not be successful for everyone.
Why does IVF fail? This question poses a dilemma for many couples who have placed their hopes in this advanced reproductive technology. Despite its promising potential, the success rate of IVF varies and many factors influence its outcome. Understanding these reasons can be crucial for those looking to increase their chances in future attempts.
- Poor quality of eggs and sperm: Sperm quality is critical, as it can impede fertilization and hinder embryo development. Egg quality and quantity decline with age, with success rates dropping from about 40% in women under 35 to about 4% in women over 42. Poor sperm quality also plays a crucial role, as low sperm count or poor motility can lead to IVF failure, and male factors are responsible for about 40-50% of infertility cases. Embryo quality is another critical factor; not all embryos develop normally, leading to implantation failure or early miscarriage. Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) can help identify viable embryos.
- Uterine factors: Fibroids, polyps, or abnormalities in the uterine lining may prevent successful implantation; uterine abnormalities are present in 10-15% of infertile women.
- Hormonal imbalance: Hormonal imbalance affects many aspects of the reproductive process, and elevated levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) are associated with reduced ovarian reserve and poor outcomes.
- Age-related problems: Age is an important factor, as advanced maternal age decreases ovarian reserve and egg quality, and women aged 38 to 40 have about a 26.7% chance of having a live birth per cycle.
- Lifestyle factors Like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity and high stress negatively affect fertility, and quitting smoking potentially increases IVF success by up to 34%.
- Genetic factors: Genetic factors can cause poor embryo development and implantation failure; genetic screening helps in their early identification.
- Implementation problems: Challenges such as embryonic-endometrial synchrony, immune responses or thrombophilia may be responsible for up to 50% of recurrent IVF failures, even with high-quality embryos.
Understanding these potential factors can help doctors design tailored treatment plans and strategies to improve the chances of success in subsequent IVF cycles. Couples may need a thorough evaluation, including physical examinations and diagnostic tests, to determine the reasons for a failed IVF cycle. Based on this evaluation, a personalized follow-up plan can be designed. This may include further testing, adjustments to medication protocols, lifestyle modifications, or ongoing support services, such as counseling or support groups.
Maintaining hope and perseverance is key, as each attempt brings new knowledge and possibilities. By addressing the underlying factors and making informed decisions, the dream of parenthood can become a reality for many.
