Impact of Age & Repeated IVF Cycles on Pregnancy
1 May 2024Impact of Age & Repeated IVF
Cycles on Pregnancy
Trying to start a family and facing challenges? In vitro fertilization (IVF) has helped many couples overcome infertility. But with all the information out there, it’s easy to get confused, especially when it comes to age and how many IVF cycles you might need. This blog is here to break things down and empower you to make informed decisions for your journey.
Age and Fertility
Age is a significant factor affecting fertility for both men and women. In women, the quantity and quality of eggs decline as they age, making conception more challenging. For men, sperm quality and quantity also decrease with age, impacting fertility.
Research consistently shows that fertility rates decline with age, particularly for women. Women over 35 face reduced fertility and increased risks of miscarriage and chromosomal abnormalities. As women reach their 40s, the chances of conception naturally or through IVF further decrease, emphasizing the importance of early intervention.
Impact of Age on IVF Success
In the realm of IVF, age plays a pivotal role in determining success rates. Advanced maternal age is associated with lower pregnancy rates and higher miscarriage rates. This is primarily due to diminished ovarian reserve and compromised egg quality, making it harder to achieve a successful pregnancy.
Although advancements in IVF technology have improved outcomes for older women, age-related fertility decline remains a significant challenge. Understanding the impact of age on IVF success is essential for managing expectations and planning treatment strategies.
Repeated IVF Cycles and Pregnancy
For some couples, achieving success with IVF may require multiple treatment cycles. Factors such as age, underlying infertility issues, and response to previous cycles influence the decision to undergo additional attempts.
While repeated IVF cycles can be emotionally and financially taxing, each cycle provides valuable insights that guide future treatment decisions. Some studies have suggested that the success ratio of an individual IVF cycle differs only marginally even when there is a history of repeated IVF failures. Some brave and persistent women have conceived after 22 IVF cycles.
Success Rates and Realistic Expectations
When discussing IVF success rates, it’s crucial to set realistic expectations. Success rates vary based on factors such as age, reproductive history, and overall health. While some couples may achieve success with their first IVF cycle, others may require multiple attempts.
Strategies to Improve Success
While age and the number of IVF cycles can impact pregnancy success, there are strategies to optimize outcomes. Lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy diet and weight, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing stress, can positively influence fertility.
Additionally, advancements in IVF technology continue to improve success rates. From advanced embryo selection techniques to personalized medication protocols, our team leverages the latest innovations to maximize your chances of success.
Taking prolonged periods of gap between 2 cycles may cause more harm than good. Data don’t show any additional benefit from rest months between IVF.
Conclusion
Embarking on the IVF journey is filled with hope and challenges. At Bavishi Fertility Institute, we’re dedicated to guiding you through every step. With personalized care and advanced technology, we’re here to help you achieve your dream of parenthood. Contact us today to start your journey with Bavishi Fertility Institute.
Author Bio
Dr. Parth Bavishi
Dr. Parth Bavishi, MD in Obstetrics and Gynecology, brings over 12 years of invaluable work experience to his role as Director of Bavishi Fertility Institute, leading a group of IVF clinics committed to helping couples realise their dreams of parenthood.
Bavishi Fertility Institute is dedicated to providing customised and personalised treatments which are simple, safe , smart and successful. Bavishi Fertility Institute works with success and satisfaction for all at heart. Providing an ideal blend of professional treatment and personalised care.
Dr Parth had special training in infertility at Bavishi fertility Institute, the Diamond Institute, USA, and the HART Institute, Japan.
Dr. Bavishi is a distinguished expert in his field. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Bavishi is the author of the acclaimed book, ‘Your Miracle in Making: A Couple’s Guide to Pregnancy,’ offering invaluable insights to couples navigating the complexities of fertility. He loves to empower patients to make the correct choice by education both online and offline .
His exceptional contributions have earned him the prestigious Rose of Paracelsus award from the European Medical Association. Dr Parth has been an invited faculty at many national and international conferences.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. Bavishi is an avid traveller who finds solace in exploring new destinations. He also enjoys engaging his mind with brainy puzzles, always seeking new challenges and solutions outside of the medical realm.
FAQs
Yes, advanced maternal age can impact the quality of embryos produced during IVF, which may affect the likelihood of successful implantation and pregnancy.
Multiple IVF cycles do not harm your body in the long term in general whether you are young or old. Some studies show marginally increased risk of borderline ovarian tumours, however the absolute risk appears to be minimum.
Fertility specialists may tailor treatment protocols for older women to optimize their chances of success, which may include adjustments to medication dosages, using HMG in addition or in place of FSH injections, extended embryo culture, or additional testing such as preimplantation genetic screening (PGS).
For women who have experienced repeated IVF failure due to age-related factors, alternative options such as using donor eggs or embryos may be considered to improve the chances of success. Going for PGT-A during the self egg cycle may help in making the decision of whether donor eggs are required or not.
While age-related declines in fertility are more pronounced in women, advanced paternal age can also impact IVF success rates and may be associated with increased risks of genetic abnormalities in offspring.
Advanced maternal age is associated with lower rates of live birth following IVF treatment, highlighting the importance of early intervention and proactive management of age-related fertility decline.
Yes, adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques can positively impact IVF success rates in older couples by promoting overall health and well-being.
Fertility clinics often offer specialized support services such as age-specific counseling, support groups, and educational resources to help couples navigate the unique challenges of age-related fertility decline and repeated IVF cycles.
Ahmedabad