Factors Affecting IVF Success Rates

In vitro fertilisation or IVF is a well-known procedure that is recommended by an infertility specialist when the couple has trouble conceiving a baby even after having intercourse for over twelve months.

In this procedure, eggs are retrieved from ovaries and then fused with sperms of partner (or donor, if required), outside the body in a laboratory. When an egg is successfully fertilised and turned into an embryo after 3 to 5 days, it is then carefully implanted inside the uterus of the woman.

Talking about IVF pregnancy success rate, it varies from couple to couple and clinic to clinic. Let us check out the factors that may affect the IVF success rate.

Maternal Age

Age is an important factor that impacts the success rate of IVF. The younger the woman is, the more the chances of her getting pregnant using her own eggs. The likelihood of getting pregnant tends to decrease with an increase in the age number. Women of older age who wants to have a baby are counselled to use donor eggs to increase the probability of success.

Embryo Status

Besides the age, IVF pregnancy success rate also depends on embryo status. Well-developed embryos increase the success rate as compared to the underdeveloped embryos (2-3 days). It is important to note that not all embryos get through the development process. Sometimes, due to an abnormal number of chromosomes in the egg or the sperm cause embryos not do develop. In case the donor egg is being used, the success rate varies and depends on the usage of fresh and frozen embryos.

Previous Pregnancies

The total number of pregnancies including losses (if any) is an important factor that affects IVF birth success rate. There is a high probability of getting pregnant for women who have successfully given birth before as compared to the women who have never conceived. Women, who have undergone IVF several times but did not conceive, have a relatively lower success rate.

Cause of Infertility

Infertility is one of the major reasons why IVF treatment is recommended. Women with a normal supply of eggs have higher chances of getting pregnant. IVF success rate is better for women who have unexplained fertility than those who have severe endometriosis.

IVF Cycles

IVF birth success rate tends to increase with repeat cycles. So, in order to achieve the desired result, it is recommended to complete three or four cycles rather than relying on just one chance.

Lifestyle Factors

Several lifestyle factors affect the IVF success rate. For instance, smoking, drinking, and excessive caffeine and recreational drugs decrease the chances of getting pregnant. Besides, obesity is one factor that affects the IVF pregnancy success rate.

Individual Clinic Success Rates

Often overlooked but an important factor that can impact the success rate. Although the chances of success depend and may vary from person to person, considering individual clinic success rates is crucial. So, it is always advised to get IVF treatment from a clinic that holds a good reputation and has a panel of experienced doctors backed by advanced set-up and equipment.

So, these are some factors that impact the IVF success rate. To know more about the IVF procedure or clarify any doubts regarding it, get in touch with us today.