IVF - Is It Successful?

IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) is a sophisticated and most effective procedure used to implant a zygote(fertilized egg) into the female uterus near the time of ovulation to initiate the pregnancy. A fertilized egg is obtained by combining a frozen egg with sperm outside the body and letting them undergo embryo culture for at least 2-6 days.

The following factors contribute to a successful IVF:

1. Age of the woman:
   • Maternal age is an important factor for a successful IVF. Women who undergo IVF treatment before they attain the age of 35, are more likely to have healthier babies and their eggs can be chosen for the IVF procedure.
   • Women above 40 have a lower chance of conceiving due to aging eggs; hence, they would need donor eggs for IVF treatment.
   • The table below shows the live birth rate against maternal age
   • Maternal age for  IVF is between <35 35-37 38-40 41-42 >42
2. Pregnancy History:
   • If the earlier pregnancy was with the same partner without any miscarriages, then a chance of IVF success is higher.
   • IVF may not be feasible in some cases of miscarriages.
3. Fertility Issues:
   • Some male and female infertilities and abnormalities in the uterus may impact IVF success rate. It is key for both partners to identify such issues early before IVF treatment is sought.
   • In women, an abnormally functioning ovary with low quality of eggs can affect IVF treatment and usage of drugs to stimulate their ovary function, lowers the chances of a successful pregnancy with IVF.
4. Other factors:
   • Smoking and consumption of alcohol affect IVF success rate and also increase the chance of miscarriage with IVF.
   • Quality of semen and habits of semen provider need to be taken into consideration before going for IVF.
   • A number of IVF cycles and embryos transferred in those cycles and the quality of those embryos.
   • Prolonged infertility in men and women can decrease the chances of success.

Note that being aware of the factors that affect IVF success rate, risks involved and the treatment procedure can help in deciding whether to go for IVF. A doctor can decide on the feasibility of IVF treatment depending on the type of infertility and the factors listed above.