When IVF fails – Measures for a Successful Second Attempt

Author Dr. Pranay ShahUpdated on October 1, 2020Categories ICSI Treatment in India, IMSI Treatment in India, IUI Treatment In India, IVF Treament, PGS PGD Treatment

Having a family is a priority for many couples around the world. While a natural pregnancy and a healthy baby is what everyone hopes for, many people aren’t that lucky. Both external and internal factors, health conditions, and just plain bad luck can cause a failure to conceive naturally. As such, many couples turn to assisted reproductive technologies like assisted hatching, artificial insemination, ICSI, and IVF to have a baby.

IVF or (In-Vitro fertilization) is a reproduction technique in which the female eggs are harvested from the ovaries and artificially combined with the male sperm in a laboratory. The eggs then undergo culturing for a few days before the embryos are transferred and implanted into the female uterus. IVF treatment is an intricate procedure, and there are a lot of factors at play here. Anything from the quality of the eggs and the sperm to the implantation technique, to any other genetic or reproductive condition, may impede successful conception. Most IVF clinics claim an average success rate of 40% for an IVF cycle, which means the odds aren’t completely in your favour and there are chances the cycle might fail.

What happens when you’ve spent a lot of money, prepared yourself both mentally and physically and undergone an IVF cycle only to have no success? Well, it is natural to feel upset, disappointed, disheartened and even lose hope when that happens. However, in such a case, it’s best to take a step back, give yourself a little time, and consult with your top fertility specialist in India.
At times, couples may find out that there was a problem with the fertilization process or the implantation process of the cycle. Other times, there may be a reproductive disorder or health condition that may have hampered the cycle. And ever so often, it is the case that no apparent cause of failure is isolated. Thus, it is incredibly important to discuss all factors at length with your doctor and decide on the future line of treatment.

If a health condition caused the failure, it would make sense to seek treatment for the health condition before trying out a second time. If there was a problem with the health care services or the clinic, it might be the time to change the clinic and go for a second opinion. Thus, the reason behind the failed IVF attempt will help you understand your next step. It is also vital that you analyze your habits and routine practices from before the cycle. If any of them is a red flag, work to change them.

One cannot stress enough how crucial it is for women undergoing IVF treatment to have a healthy diet and routine. Multivitamin supplements and foods high in vitamin B, C, E, B12, folic acid, amino acids, zinc, manganese, and antioxidants must be a part of your daily diet. Start off with a cleansing detox and then follow a healthy dietary regime as prescribed by your doctor. Regular exercise is a must too. Sometimes, making lifestyle changes like avoiding smoking and drinking can go a long way in ensuring a successful cycle and a healthy pregnancy.

Also, many experts claim that acupuncture increases the success rate of conception. It is said to improve blood circulation to your reproductive system and improve the functioning of the ovaries. So going in for acupuncture therapy 2-3 months before the 2nd IVF cycle could help boost your chances.

When it comes to men, they should take a few precautions too to ensure good sperm health and production. Hot baths, jacuzzis, and any supplements or steroids should be avoided as they are known to interfere with sperm production and motility. Same goes for smoking. As it affects the condition of the sperm, men should quit smoking a couple of months before the cycle.

All in all, taking a couple of precautions, and having an honest interaction with your healthcare provider is essential before going for a 2nd cycle. It is advisable that you take any treatments suggested by your doctor before the next attempt so that you can eliminate possible issues. Bear in mind that IVF is a complicated process which can at times fail for no apparent reason. But there are many cases in which the cycle has succeeded on the 2nd or even the 3rd attempt. So don’t lose courage yet.

It is very natural to get disappointed and upset over a failed attempt, especially one you had all your hopes pinned on. But don’t worry, there’s always another chance. It is important to lean on the support of your spouse while going through this incredibly wearying experience. So, keep the channels of communication open with your partner, avoid any resentment and anger, and allow yourself and your body to heal. When your mind and body is ready to try again, go for an informed and a better prepared second attempt and hopefully it will work out well for you.