experiencing failure during a fertility program can have a significant psychological impact. However, there are ways to cope with IVF failure with resilience.
Not every couple can easily conceive. Many need extra effort to make their dream of having a child come true. One option chosen by many couples is in vitro fertilization (IVF) or the test tube baby program.
Through IVF, the fertilization process occurs outside the body (in vitro) in a laboratory setting. Eggs and sperm, which have been carefully selected, are fertilized to produce high-quality embryos.
Compared to other fertility programs, IVF involves a more complex and time-consuming process. This is why many couples have high hopes for its success.
It’s important to understand that multiple factors can affect IVF success. These conditions determine whether the program works or not. Unfortunately, some couples experience deep disappointment when their IVF attempt fails.
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What Are the Factors That Affect IVF Success?
According to Dr. Cynthia Agnes Susanto, BMedSc, Sp.OG, an obstetrics and gynecology specialist at Bocah Indonesia, there are five main factors influencing IVF success:
1. Maternal Age
The younger the mother, the higher the success rate because age affects egg quality. Younger women generally have better-quality eggs. However, conditions like PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) or endometriosis can negatively impact egg quality.
2. Uterine Condition
The uterus plays a critical role in IVF success. It is essential to check for polyps or infections that may not be detected on ultrasound but can be assessed through a hysteroscopy.
3. Embryo Quality
High-quality embryos significantly increase the chance of implantation and healthy pregnancy.
4. Healthy Lifestyle
Lifestyle choices matter. Limit fatty and high-carbohydrate foods. Instead, focus on a balanced diet rich in fiber and protein to support fertility.
5. Paternal Factor
The father’s role is equally crucial. Optimal sperm quality is required for conception. Semen analysis and DNA fragmentation tests can help assess sperm quantity and quality.
Every individual’s IVF success rate varies depending on their unique health conditions.
What Should You Do After a Failed IVF Attempt?
When a couple experiences IVF failure, the first challenge is often psychological distress. At this stage, emotional support is vital for recovery and mental well-being.
Providing moral support is essential after an unsuccessful IVF cycle. Not achieving pregnancy can be emotionally overwhelming. Support from partners, family, and close friends helps stabilize emotional health.
Here are some steps you can take after a failed IVF cycle:
Take Time to Grieve and Process Allow yourself to feel sadness, disappointment, or anger. These emotions are natural reactions.
Talk to Someone You Trust Confiding in a partner, family member, close friend, or counselor can ease emotional burdens.
Prepare for a Follow-Up Consultation Make a list of questions, review the previous cycle, and discuss next steps with your doctor.
Consider All Available Options This includes repeating IVF with possible protocol adjustments or additional procedures like PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy).
Make Lifestyle Changes Improve your diet, manage stress, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep to support reproductive health.
Take Care of Yourself Engage in activities that bring peace and happiness. Mental and physical well-being are as important as medical planning.
There Is Still Hope After IVF Failure
A failed IVF cycle does not mean the end of your journey. Many couples succeed in subsequent attempts. There is nothing wrong with trying again. Speak with your doctor when you feel ready to start another fertility program.
For couples who have experienced failed IVF, Bocah Indonesia offers Embryology Counseling Services. This service helps parents understand the reasons behind the failure and provides strategies to increase the success rate of the next cycle.
Source:
Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. Coping if treatment doesn’t work.
Rescripted. 6 Things To Do After a Failed IVF Cycle.
