Repeated IVF Failure

What is repeated IVF Failures?

Recurrent IVF (In-Vitro Fertilization) failures can be a challenging and emotionally draining experience for couples who are trying to build a family. Despite advances in reproductive medicine, it is estimated that 20-30% of IVF cycles fail to result in a live birth. While the causes of recurrent IVF failures can be complex, there are several steps couples can take to increase their chances of success.

Causes of Repeated IVF Failure

Causes of recurrent IVF failures can be complex and multifaceted. While some causes may be related to the reproductive system, others may stem from underlying medical conditions or lifestyle factors.

Here are some of the common causes of recurrent IVF failures:

• Age: As a woman ages, the quality and quantity of her eggs decline, especially after the age of 35 years, making it more challenging to achieve pregnancy through IVF.
• Genetic factors: Chromosomal abnormalities or genetic conditions in either partner can contribute to recurrent IVF failures.
• Uterine anomalies: Structural issues within the uterus can make it difficult for an embryo to implant and develop. Congenital conditions ditions such as septate uterus, uterus didelphys, bicornuate and unicornuate uterus can make pregnancy difficult. Conditions such as uterine fibroids, adhesions, and polyps can also result incause multiple IVF failures.
• Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances can affect the ovaries and interfere with egg production and ovulation. Hormonal imbalances can be caused by conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, hyperprolactinemia and thyroid disorders.
• Implantation issues: Even when the egg and sperm are healthy and the embryo develops normally, implantation can still fail if the endometrium is persistently thin <7mm is not receptive.
• Lifestyle factors: Lifestyle factors such as processed food intake, sedentary lifestyle, sleeping late at night, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact fertility and increase the risk of recurrent IVF failures.

Diagnostic Tests for Repeated IVF Failures

Diagnostic testing plays a critical role in identifying the underlying causes of recurrent IVF failures and developing an effective treatment plan. 

The following are some of the commonly performed diagnostic tests for repeated IVF failures:

• Hormonal testing: Hormonal testing especially during the first 2-3 days of periods can help to identify any imbalances in hormones.
• Female trans-vaginal pelvic ultrasound is done on the 2nd day of cycles, for antral follicles in both ovaries and mid cycle for assessment of endometrial thickness and pattern. A thorough follicle monitoring for ovulation is very important for diagnosis of ovarian reserve as well as documentation of ovulation.
• Chromosomal testing: Chromosomal testing or karyotyping for X, Y chromosomes and Trisomy 13, 18 and 21 can detect problems in the chromosomes that can affect fertility.
• Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): A HSG is a dye based X-ray test that visualizes the inside of the uterus and fallopian tubes. This test can detect uterine structural issues such as fibroids, septae, adhesions, polyps as well as tubal patency and tubal abnormalities such as hydrosalpinx, pyosalpinx that may be contributing to multiple IVF failures.
• Sonohysterogram (SHG): A SHG is an ultrasound test that evaluates the uterus in greater detail, detecting issues such as endometrial polyps, uterine septum, or uterine scarring and also the tubes to some extent.
• Hysteroscopy + Laparoscopy: hysteroscopy combined with laparoscopy is a surgical procedure that allows a reproductive specialist to visualize the inside of the pelvis and identify any structural or functional issues that may be contributing to recurrent IVF failures. It is the Gold Standard for diagnosing as well as operating.

Motherhood IVF & Fertility Centre has a team of highly trained reproductive specialists who are dedicated to helping patients overcome recurrent IVF failures and achieve successful pregnancies. The clinic offers a range of diagnostic tests and treatments designed to address the specific causes of multiple IVF failures and help couples reach their goal of starting a family.

In conclusion, multiple IVF failures can be a challenging and emotional experience for couples trying to build a family. However, by working with a fertility specialist, undergoing comprehensive diagnostic testing, and developing a personalized treatment plan, couples can increase their chances of success.