Understanding the reasons for IVF failure

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a complex and delicate process, offering hope to many couples struggling with infertility. While the success rates of IVF have improved with advances in reproductive technology, failures can still occur. It’s important to understand the possible reasons for an unsuccessful IVF cycle so that steps can be taken to increase the chances of success in future attempts.

• Embryo quality.
• Uterine health and implantation issues.
• Ovarian response and egg quality.
• Sperm quality and male factor infertility.
• Lifestyle factors and Health issues.
• Age-related fertility decline.
• Unexplained infertility.
• IVF protocol variations.

1. Embryo quality

One of the most common reasons for IVF failure is poor embryo quality. Healthy embryos are essential for successful implantation and development. If an embryo is genetically abnormal or not growing as expected, it may not implant in the uterine lining.

Causes of poor embryo quality:

• Age of the female partner: As women age, their egg quality may decline, leading to embryos that are less viable.
• Sperm quality: Low-quality sperm can affect embryo development.
• Genetic abnormalities: Chromosomal issues can occur naturally and prevent proper embryo development.

How to address It:

Pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT-A) can help identify chromosomally abnormal embryos, increasing the likelihood of transferring healthy embryos.

2. Uterine health and implantation issues

For IVF to be successful, the uterus must be receptive to the embryo. Even when high-quality embryos are transferred, issues with the uterine environment may prevent implantation.

Factors affecting uterine health:

• Endometrial thickness: A lining that is too thin or thick can hinder implantation.
• Fibroids or polyps: These growths can interfere with the ability of the embryo to implant.
• Endometriosis: This condition can affect the uterine lining and make it difficult for embryos to attach.

How to address It:

Doctors may suggest treatments like hysteroscopy to remove fibroids or polyps or medications to optimize the uterine lining before IVF.

3. Ovarian response and egg quality

Ovarian response to fertility medications can vary from one woman to another. Some women may produce too few eggs or eggs of poor quality during the IVF process.

Poor ovarian response can be caused by:

• Age: Diminishing ovarian reserve is common in women over 35.
• Poor egg quality: Older eggs may be more prone to genetic abnormalities.
• Hormonal imbalances: Conditions like PCOS or low AMH levels can affect egg quality and quantity.

How to address It:

Ovarian stimulation protocols can be adjusted, and options like using donor eggs may be discussed for women with severely diminished ovarian reserve.

4. Sperm quality and male factor infertility

While much focus is often on the woman during IVF, male factor infertility also plays a critical role in IVF success. Poor sperm quality can affect fertilization and embryo development.

Causes of poor sperm quality:

• Low sperm count or motility.
• Abnormal sperm morphology (shape).
• Genetic issues affecting sperm function.

How to address It:

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be recommended, where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg to improve fertilization rates.

5. Lifestyle factors and Health issues

Health and lifestyle factors can significantly impact the outcome of an IVF cycle. Both partners’ health plays a role in the success of the treatment.

Lifestyle factors that may affect IVF:

• Smoking: It can reduce both egg and sperm quality.
• Obesity: Excess weight can affect hormonal balance, ovulation, and embryo implantation.
• Alcohol and drug use: These can impair fertility and embryo quality.
• Stress: Chronic stress can disrupt the hormonal balance required for conception.

How to address It:

Lifestyle modifications, such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress through relaxation techniques or counseling, can improve the chances of IVF success.

6. Age-related fertility decline

Age is one of the biggest factors affecting IVF success. Women’s fertility declines naturally after the age of 35, primarily due to a decrease in egg quality and quantity.

Impact of age on IVF success:

• Lower chances of producing viable eggs.
• Increased risk of genetic abnormalities in embryos.
• Reduced ovarian reserve and diminished response to fertility medications.

How to address It:

Younger women undergoing IVF tend to have higher success rates, but for older women, strategies like using donor eggs or advanced fertility techniques can be helpful.

7. Unexplained infertility

Sometimes, despite extensive testing, there is no identifiable reason for infertility or IVF failure. This is referred to as “unexplained infertility.” In such cases, a combination of factors may be contributing, even if each one seems minor.

How to address It:

Couples with unexplained infertility may need to explore advanced diagnostic tests or consider options like embryo banking (freezing embryos for multiple transfers) to improve their chances over time.

8. IVF protocol variations

The IVF protocol itself can sometimes be a factor in the success of a cycle. Each individual responds differently to stimulation protocols and medications.

Common protocol issues:

• Over or under-stimulation of the ovaries.
• Incorrect timing of the egg retrieval or embryo transfer.
• Suboptimal dosing of fertility medications.

How to address It:

Your fertility specialist may suggest a personalized approach, such as tailoring the medication regimen or adjusting the timing of procedures to better suit your body’s response.

Conclusion

At Bavishi Fertility Institute, we understand how challenging IVF failures can be, both emotionally and physically. However, it’s important to remember that a failed IVF cycle doesn’t mean all hope is lost. By understanding the possible reasons for failure and working closely with our experienced team, you can adjust your treatment plan and improve your chances of success in future cycles.

Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care, advanced diagnostic testing, and customized treatment options to help you achieve your dream of parenthood. If you’ve experienced an IVF failure or are preparing for your first cycle, contact us today to discuss your next steps.

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 realize their dreams of parenthood.

Bavishi Fertility Institute is dedicated to providing customized and personalized 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 personalized 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.

FAQs