Infertility: Factors Affecting Pregnancy Success After IVF

Q: Infertility: Factors Affecting Pregnancy Success After IVF

Hello： 1. There is a 25% success rate in Taiwan. 2. The chances of success naturally decrease with age. 3. Additionally, one should not undergo the procedure too many times in succession to avoid ovarian hyperstimulation.

Infertility

I am 49 years old, and my wife is 41.
We underwent assisted reproductive therapy at a medical institution.
Starting on the third day of my wife's menstrual cycle, she received daily injections of Gonal-F 75 for six consecutive days.
On the ninth day, an ultrasound examination revealed that the follicles were sufficiently large and mature.
On the ninth day, she received an ovulation trigger injection, and 36 hours later, sperm implantation was performed.
The process went smoothly; however, we were ultimately unable to achieve pregnancy.
Given that both the sperm and egg were mature, is it still possible to not conceive? What is the likelihood of successful pregnancy in this situation? If we want to conceive under these circumstances, do we need to try multiple times, or are there other methods that could assist in achieving a successful pregnancy?

Wang Li, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/11/11

Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: 1.
There is a 25% success rate in Taiwan.
2.
The chances of success naturally decrease with age.
3.
Additionally, one should not undergo the procedure too many times in succession to avoid ovarian hyperstimulation.

Reply Date: 2001/11/11

More Info

Understanding infertility, particularly in the context of in vitro fertilization (IVF), involves recognizing a multitude of factors that can influence the success of the procedure. In your case, both you and your wife are at an advanced reproductive age, which is a significant consideration in fertility treatments.

Firstly, it is important to acknowledge that even when both the sperm and egg are mature, pregnancy is not guaranteed. The success of IVF can be influenced by several factors, including the quality of the embryos, the health of the uterine lining, and the overall reproductive health of both partners. In your situation, while the process you described—using Gonal-F for ovarian stimulation, monitoring follicle development, and administering a trigger shot—was executed correctly, there are still variables at play that could affect implantation and pregnancy.

Statistically, the success rates for IVF vary widely based on age. For women aged 41, the success rate per cycle is generally lower than for younger women. According to data, the average success rate for women in their early forties can be around 10-15% per cycle. This means that even with a well-timed procedure and mature gametes, the chances of achieving a pregnancy can be relatively low.

Moreover, factors such as the quality of the embryos created during the IVF process are crucial. Not all mature eggs will result in viable embryos, and even among those that do, not all will implant successfully. Genetic abnormalities in embryos, which become more common with age, can also lead to implantation failure or early miscarriage.

In terms of next steps, it is essential to consult with your fertility specialist to discuss your specific situation. They may recommend additional testing to evaluate the uterine lining or to assess for any underlying issues that could be affecting implantation. For instance, a hysteroscopy can be performed to check for any abnormalities in the uterus, such as polyps or fibroids, which could hinder implantation.

If you are considering additional IVF cycles, it is also worth discussing the possibility of using preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to screen embryos for chromosomal abnormalities. This can help in selecting the most viable embryos for transfer, potentially increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy.

Lastly, while multiple IVF attempts may be necessary, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your emotional and physical well-being throughout this process. The journey of infertility can be challenging, and support from medical professionals, as well as emotional support from friends, family, or support groups, can be invaluable.

In conclusion, while the path to achieving pregnancy through IVF can be fraught with challenges, understanding the factors that influence success can empower you and your wife to make informed decisions moving forward. It is essential to work closely with your fertility specialist to explore all available options and to remain hopeful as you navigate this journey.

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