Hormonal imbalance due to bad lifestyle habits, 6 reasons for IVF failure
In vitro fertilization is a challenging process. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't, and experts reveal what possible lifestyle factors can affect IVF success rates.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a procedure in which eggs are taken from a woman's ovaries and fertilized by sperm in the laboratory. This is a cure for couples struggling to conceive naturally. However, sometimes, even after going through the IVF process, the fertilized eggs do not develop into embryos or the embryos do not successfully implant in the uterus. This is what we call a failed IVF cycle. It can be really frustrating and frustrating for couples who have gone through this. But a failed IVF cycle doesn't mean the road is over. Many couples try again and sometimes succeed in subsequent cycles. India.com caught up with Dr. Sreeja Karan, Consultant – Obstetrics and Gynecology and Fertility Specialist, Sarjapur Road, Bangalore who explained the ins and outs of IVF and why it may not be successful for everyone.
Why does IVF fail? This question is a dilemma for many couples who have placed their hopes on this advanced reproductive technology. Despite its promising potential, the success rate of IVF varies, with many factors influencing its outcome. Understanding these reasons can be important for those looking to increase their chances in future endeavors.
- Poor quality of eggs and sperm: This is important because it can interfere with fertilization and hinder the development of the fetus. Egg quality and quantity decline with age, with success rates dropping from 40% for women under 35 to about 4% for women over 42. Poor sperm quality also plays an important role, as low sperm count or poor motility can occur. IVF failure with male factor accounts for approximately 40-50% of infertility cases. Embryo quality is another important factor; Not all embryos develop normally, leading to implantation failure or early miscarriage. Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) can help identify viable embryos.
- Uterine components: Fibroids, polyps, or abnormalities in the uterine lining can prevent successful implantation, along with uterine abnormalities in 10-15% of infertile women.
- Hormonal imbalance: Hormonal imbalance affects many aspects of the reproductive process, with high levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) linked to low ovarian reserve and poor outcomes.
- Age related problems: Age is an important factor, as advanced maternal age reduces ovarian reserve and egg quality, with women aged 38–40 having a 26.7% chance of live birth per cycle.
- lifestyle factors As smoking, heavy drinking, obesity and high stress negatively affect fertility, quitting smoking increases potential IVF success by up to 34%.
- Genetic factors: Genetic factors can lead to poor fetal development and implantation failure, genetic testing helps in early detection.
- Implantation Problems: Challenges such as embryo-endometrial synchrony, immune response, or thrombophilia can account for up to 50% of recurrent IVF failures even with high-quality embryos.
Understanding these potential factors can help doctors design treatment plans and strategies to improve the chances of success in subsequent IVF cycles. Couples may need a thorough evaluation, including physical exams and diagnostic tests, to find the cause of a failed IVF cycle. Based on this assessment, a personalized follow-up plan can be created. This may include further tests, adjusting medication protocols, lifestyle changes, or ongoing support services such as counseling or support groups.
It is important to maintain hope and perseverance, as each attempt brings new insights and possibilities. By addressing underlying factors and making informed decisions, the dream of parenthood can still become a reality for many.