3 Failed IVF Cycles: What Next?

Comprehensive Review and Diagnosis

After three failed IVF cycles, a thorough analysis of what went wrong is essential. This involves evaluating every aspect of your previous treatments and identifying the factors that may have impacted the outcomes.

→ Review of Previous IVF Cycles
 

1. Egg Quality
   The health of the eggs is integral to embryo development. Poor egg quality can lead to lower fertilisation rates or embryos that fail to develop properly. Analysing egg quality provides crucial insights into the next steps.
2. Sperm Quality
   Since half of the genetic material comes from sperm, its quality is equally important. Comprehensive semen analyses can detect any underlying issues that may have affected embryo viability.
3. Embryo Development
   Were embryos successfully created? If not, understanding fertilisation and the cleavage stage results can pinpoint weaknesses in the process.
4. Uterine and Endometrial Assessment
   A healthy uterus with the right endometrial thickness is key for implantation. Thin lining, polyps, fibroids, or scar tissue could hinder success and must be addressed.
5. Laboratory and Procedural Factors
   Review how the embryology lab handled the process, as well as any procedural challenges during embryo transfer that could impact results.

→ Additional Testing
 

If no clear issues are found in the initial review, additional tests may uncover less obvious barriers:

• Hormonal Evaluations
  Assessing thyroid function, AMH levels, and prolactin can ensure that hormonal balance is optimal for IVF success.
• Genetic Testing (e.g., PGT-A)
  Screening embryos for chromosomal abnormalities through Preimplantation Genetic Testing-Aneuploidy (PGT-A) can improve chances of selecting a healthy embryo.
• Advanced Uterine Imaging
  A hysteroscopy or saline sonogram provides detailed insights into uterine conditions like adhesions or polyps.
• Immunological and Thrombophilia Screening
  If necessary, screening for autoimmune or blood clotting disorders can identify hidden problems impacting implantation.

Our team of experts at Mamata Fertility Hospital Hyderabad, can perform all these tests and craft a targeted treatment plan customised for your unique situation.

Treatment Adjustments and Advanced Techniques

Learning from past experiences allows us to refine protocol and employ advanced methods to maximize success.

Protocol Modifications

Small changes in fertility medications, stimulation protocols, or the timing of triggers and transfers can significantly affect outcomes in future cycles.

Advanced Laboratory Techniques

ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
For sperm-related issues, ICSI ensures precise fertilisation by injecting a single sperm directly into the egg.

Assisted Hatching
This technique involves thinning the embryo’s outer shell to improve implantation potential.

Embryo Glue
A specially formulated substance, embryo glue, enhances the embryo’s ability to adhere to the uterine wall during transfer.

Endometrial Scratch
This procedure creates small, intentional injuries to the uterine lining, which may improve implantation rates by boosting receptivity.

Genetic Screening

Chromosomal abnormalities in embryos are a leading cause of IVF failure. Genetic screening (PGT-A/PGT-M) ensures only healthy embryos are selected for transfer.

D. Addressing Endometrial Factors

Persistent issues with the endometrial lining can be treated with innovative methods such as:

• PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections to rejuvenate the uterine lining.
• G-CSF (Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor) to promote endometrial thickness.
• Hysteroscopy to resolve adhesions or abnormalities in the uterus.

Our experts at Mamata Fertility Hospital, Hyderabad, specialise in offering these advanced techniques for even the most complex cases.

Alternative Family-Building Options

If traditional IVF with your own eggs or sperm isn’t an option or has repeatedly failed despite all adjustments, alternative approaches may be considered:

A. Donor Eggs, Sperm, or Embryos

Opting for donor eggs, sperm, or embryos can greatly increase success rates, especially for individuals facing poor egg or sperm quality.

B. Gestational Surrogacy

Surrogacy involves another woman carrying your child when your own uterus is unable to do so. This is a compassionate and increasingly accessible choice.

C. Adoption

Though not related to fertility treatments, adoption is a wonderful option for those looking to build their family and provide a loving home to a child.

Lifestyle and Clinic Considerations

Making lifestyle changes and evaluating the clinic handling your treatment can also influence future IVF outcomes.

Lifestyle Optimization

Maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, exercise moderately, and minimise stress. These small steps create a positive environment for conception.

Seeking a Second Opinion or Changing Clinics

Sometimes, a second opinion or a fresh start at a different clinic like Fertility Hospital Hyderabad can provide new perspectives and solutions.

Conclusion

Facing three failed IVF cycles is undoubtedly a challenging experience, but it doesn’t mean the end of your fertility journey. By reviewing past cycles, exploring advanced treatment options, and leaning on emotional support systems, you can move forward with renewed hope and confidence.

At Mamata Fertility Hospital, Hyderabad, we understand every fertility story is unique. With cutting-edge technology, compassionate care, and expert specialists, we are dedicated to helping you find joy in parenthood. You are not alone in this—informed decisions and tailored care can make all the difference.