Understanding Reasons For Multiple IVF Failures

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a revolutionary medical advancement for couples who face difficulty in natural conception. Despite its success rate, some couples may experience multiple IVF failures, which can cause emotional distress and heartbreak. 

Therefore understanding the reasons for failure and its solutions can help couples cope with the challenges of multiple IVF failures and stay positive.

What is multiple IVF failure?

Multiple IVF failure is when a couple undergoes several IVF cycles but fails to conceive. IVF is a process where eggs are fertilized outside the body, and the embryo is implanted in the uterus for pregnancy. 

For successful conception, the embryo must implant or embed in the endometrium. However, when this does not happen, the IVF cycle fails.

Understanding the reasons may help you stay positive and take adequate actions and coping mechanisms.

Reasons of multiple IVF failure 

There can be multiple reasons why couples may experience multiple IVF failures. Some most common reasons IVF failure happens are:

Embryo implantation failure 

When embryo implantation is unsuccessful, it can cause  IVF failures, i.e., when the embryo fails to attach to the uterine lining (endometrium), the conception process fails. This is one of the most common causes of multiple IVF failure. It can be difficult to determine whether an embryonic deformity or a uterine problem is causing the failure. 

Poor egg quality

Poor egg quality is also a significant reason for IVF failure. Women under the age of 35 have a higher success rate with embryo implantation, whereas the success rate drops in women over the age of 40. As women age, the quality of their eggs declines, making it difficult to conceive. If the uterus is healthy, then resorting to donor eggs may be a viable option.

Chromosomal abnormalities

Chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo may cause IVF failure. As women approach their 30s, the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities in their eggs increases. For men, the rate at which sperm chromosomal defects are much slower.

 However, if someone suffers from multiple IVF failures, their fertility doctor may suggest PGS (preimplantation genetic screening) for their future IVF cycle. The screening aids in detecting any potential chromosomal abnormalities throughout the embryonic period.

Body’s response to IVF medications

The body’s response to IVF medications plays a crucial role in determining the success of IVF. Age, uterine health, and the body’s response to IVF medications all contribute to determining the success of IVF.

Egg production from the ovary declines sharply after the age of 30. Therefore, IVF medications are given before commencing the IVF procedure.  These medicines enhance the production of eggs. However, a woman’s body’s response to fertility affects the chances of IVF success.

Poor sperm quality

Lastly, poor sperm quality is an important factor in the process of fertilization. Sperm’s health, motility, and number play an important role in the fertilization process. Abnormal or poor-quality sperm can make the process of fertilization complicated, making it harder to conceive naturally and artificially.

It is crucial to understand the reasons behind multiple IVF failures to determine the next course of action. 

What should be done?

If a couple experiences multiple IVF failures, they should seek medical advice from a fertility expert to determine the cause of the problem. Here are some possible solutions:

1. Genetic testing: Genetic testing can help identify any chromosomal abnormalities that may be contributing to IVF failure.

1. Egg or sperm donation: If the couple has poor egg or sperm quality, they can consider using donated eggs or sperm.

1. ART-based treatment options: Couples can explore different fertility treatments, such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or natural cycle IVF.

1. Surrogacy: Surrogacy involves a third party carrying the pregnancy. This can be an option if the woman has a medical condition that makes it difficult to carry a child.

How to deal with emotional stress and stay positive?

Dealing with the emotional stress of multiple IVF failures can be challenging. Here are some methods ways to cope with stress and stay positive:

1. Seek support: Couples can seek support from family, friends, or a therapist to cope with the emotional stress.
2. Practice self-care: Practicing self-care, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation, can help reduce stress and anxiety.
3. Take a break: Taking a break from fertility treatments and focusing on other aspects of life can help reduce stress and anxiety.
4. Stay positive: Focusing on the positive aspects of life and staying hopeful can help couples cope with multiple IVF failures.

Multiple IVF failures can be devastating experiences for couples, but understanding the reasons and finding solutions can help them cope with the challenges. Seeking support, practising self-care, and staying positive can help couples deal with emotional stress and stay hopeful.

If you have a similar experience, talk to our IVF experts at Zivia, and know what steps you can take to seek the utmost blessing of life…your baby!