Invitros fertilisation is a challenging process too parenthood. Sometimes it works and sometimes not and expert reveals what potential lifestyle factors may affect the success rate of IVF.
In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is process where eggs are taken from a woman’s ovaries and fertilised with sperm in a lab. It’s a treatment for couples who are struggling to conceive naturally. However, sometimes, even after going through the IVF process, the fertilized eggs don’t develop into embryos or the embryos don’t 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 been through this. But a failed IVF cycle doesn’t mean it’s the end of the road. Many couples try again, and sometimes they find success in subsequent cycles. India.com got in touch with Dr.Shreeja Karan, Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology & Fertility Specialist, Sarjapur Road, Bangalore who explained the ins and out of IVF and why it may not be successful for everyone.
Why does IVF fail? This question poses as 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, with many factors influencing its outcome. Understanding these reasons can be crucial for those seeking to increase their chances in future attempts.
- Poor Quality of Egg and Sperm: It is paramount as it can impede fertilization and hinder embryo development. The quality and quantity of eggs decline with age, with success rates dropping from about 40% for women under 35 to about 4% for women over 42. Poor Sperm Quality also plays a crucial role, as low sperm count or poor motility can lead to IVF failure, with male factors accounting for approximately 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 can prevent successful implantation, with uterine abnormalities present in 10-15% of infertile women.
- Hormonal Imbalance: Hormonal Imbalance affects many aspects of the reproductive process, with elevated levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) linked to reduced ovarian reserve and poor outcomes.
- Age Related Issues: Age is a significant factor, as advanced maternal age decreases ovarian reserve and egg quality, with women aged 38-40 having about a 26.7% chance of live birth per cycle.
- Lifestyle Factors like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and high stress negatively impact fertility, with quitting smoking potentially increasing IVF success by up to 34%.
- Genetic Factors: Genetic Factors can lead to poor embryo development and failed implantation, with genetic screening aiding in early identification.
- Implantation Issues: Challenges like embryo-endometrial synchrony, immune responses, or thrombophilia can account for up to 50% of recurrent IVF failures, even with high-quality embryos.
Understanding these potential factors can help doctors tailor 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 pinpoint the reasons for a failed IVF cycle. Based on this evaluation, a personalised follow-up plan can be outlined. This might include further tests, adjusting medication protocols, lifestyle modifications, or ongoing support services such as counselling or support groups.
Maintaining hope and persistence is crucial, as each attempt brings new insights and possibilities. By addressing the underlying factors and making informed decisions, the dream of parenthood can still become a reality for many.