The success of the fertility treatment depends on numerous factors like age, health, lifestyle, fertility issue, and more. These factors may or may not be in your control.
However, it is essential to consider the factors involved in individual IVF success rates and have realistic expectations while getting started with the treatment.
According to research, the success rate of IVF can be as high as 40%. However, most women have a success rate anywhere between 20-35% in a single IVF cycle.
This data helps you to be mentally prepared and set the right expectations while getting into the treatment. So, even if your first cycle doesn’t favor the expected result, you won’t be affected much!
If you’re keen to know more about the process, there are IVF success rate calculators that can help you. These calculators will give you a better idea of how IVF works. So, all you gotta do is answer a few questions and your calculator will predict your IVF success rates.
1. Maternal age
The most vital aspect considered in women going for IVF treatment is their “Age”.Women in their prime have high chances of getting pregnant but this is not the same with all age groups.
The success rate of IVF drops down with age. Hence, it is important to get started with the treatment as early as possible.
Apart from the age of the individual, there are various other parameters that influence the success rate of IVF.
2. Previous pregnancy
The second factor that influences the chances of getting pregnant and the success rate of IVF is your history of pregnancy.
A history of miscarriage can affect the course of the treatment. However, the doctor will personalize the treatment accordingly, to ensure that there is no miscarriage and you have a safe birthing experience in the future.
You’re likely to be enquired about your previous birth experiences, history of miscarriages, fertility issues, and your partner. If you’re unable to conceive for a prolonged period, it is a sign of possible fertility issues.
3. Type of fertility issue
It is very important to determine if you or your partner have any fertility issues that are cutting down your chance of pregnancy. Nowadays, there is an advancement in the field of medical science and hence various assisted reproductive approaches can help you in the journey of parenthood.
Various infertility conditions like ovulatory disorders, endometriosis, Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes and other fertility issues can be overcome by in vitro fertilization. Male infertility issues include low sperm count and poor motility. This IVF procedure can help you overcome male infertility issues too.
However, identifying the primary cause of infertility is vital for effective treatment.
4. Use of donor egg
The quality of the egg is an important criterion to consider while heading for IVF treatment. Egg quality and the age of the donor drastically influence the success of the fertility treatment. If you’re over 40, it is recommended to go for donor eggs retrieved from young women, as there is a high chance of conception.
It is also observed that frozen eggs are not as fertile as fresh donor eggs and thus affects the success of the procedure.
5. Lifestyle
Your lifestyle has a huge impact on your health and well being. Lifestyle can also impact fertility as well.
Overweight, underweight, history of smoking, alcohol consumption, poor eating habits, and a sedentary lifestyle can ruin the progress of the treatment. Being overweight may affect the response of the fertility medications that are prescribed along with IVF and may also influence the woman’s egg quality. Smoking diminishes the egg quality and can create havoc in ovulation and fertilization. In case of low body weight, ovulation can shut down completely and there is a high risk of miscarriage and pre-term birth.
6. Clinic choice
Lastly, the choice of a fertility clinic for your IVF procedure also influences the success rate of the procedure. Some clinics claim to have a high success rate and end up charging more for the treatment.
However, it is your responsibility to be aware of the treatment quality, advancements in machinery and equipment, and of course the reputation of the clinic while you choose the clinic for IVF.
Apart from the factors discussed, there may be other reasons that can influence your treatment success. Sometimes these factors may not be in your control.
Any treatment has its share of uncertainty. Some may have a positive outcome while others may not.
There is no one size fits all! If IVF doesn’t bring the anticipated result, an alternative procedure can be considered too.