Common Causes of IVF Failure and How to Deal with Them
In vitro fertilization (IVF) technology has brought hope to many infertile families, but not every attempt is successful. Poor embryo quality, older women, abnormal uterine environment, male infertility, and lifestyle issues can all contribute to failure . For example, the rate of chromosomal abnormalities in eggs is significantly higher in older women, while a thin endometrium or anatomical problems can also affect embryo implantation . In addition, psychological stress and poor lifestyle habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption can also reduce the success rate. Nevertheless, by scientifically analyzing the causes of failure and taking targeted measures, such as the use of preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), adjusting medication regimens, or improving lifestyles, the success rate of the next attempt can be significantly improved. In this article, we will discuss the common causes of IVF failure and strategies to help you better plan your fertility journey.
What is IVF?
test tube baby（IVF is an assisted reproductive technology designed to help couples who are unable to conceive naturally realize their dream of having a baby. Instead of actually "growing" a baby in a test tube, IVF is performed by removing eggs from a woman's ovaries and combining them with processed sperm to form a fertilized egg in a laboratory. Instead, the egg is removed from the woman's ovary and combined with processed sperm in the laboratory to form a fertilized egg. The fertilized egg (i.e., the embryo) is then transferred back into the mother's uterus for further development. This technique has brought hope to many infertile families, but the success rate may be affected by a number of factors, such as age, embryo quality or uterine environment. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the IVF process and its potential problems can help couples better cope with the challenges and optimize their fertility plans.
Why does IVF fail?
There are many reasons why IVF fails, here are some of the most common.
1. Poor quality of embryos
Poor embryo quality is one of the main reasons for IVF failure. Many embryos havechromosomal abnormalityIf there is a problem with the DNA, the embryo may not implant in the uterus or may cause a miscarriage. If there is a problem with the embryo, it may not implant in the uterus or can cause a miscarriage . Studies have shown that 40%-60% of embryos obtained through IVF methods have chromosomal abnormalities, and that women of advanced age, in particular, have a higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities in their embryos .
How can we address the issue of embryo quality?
- utilizationPreimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)to screen for healthy embryos, especially the PGT-A technique, which can detect the presence of aneuploidy problems in embryos and thus improve the success rate .
- Selection of development toblastocyst stageof embryos for transfer. Blastocysts are embryos that have been cultured for a longer period of time and have a higher potential for implantation. Studies have shown that the success rate of blastocyst transfer is significantly higher than that of early embryo transfer .
2. Older women
A woman's age is a key factor in the success rate of IVF. With age, the quality of eggs decreases and the rate of chromosomal abnormalities increases, leading to difficulty in getting pregnant and a higher risk of miscarriage .The success rate of IVF for women under 35 years of age can be as high as 40%-50%, but the success rate for women over 40 years of age drops to less than 10% . In addition, older women face an increased risk of fetal malformations .
How do we address the age issue?
- Consider using a young woman's donatedpenisThis method significantly improves the success rate and is especially suitable for women over 40 years of age.
- A thorough physical examination is performed prior to conception, and ovarian function is regulated, such as through diet, exercise, or medication, to improve egg quality.
- Talk to your doctor about whether it's appropriate to tryOvarian function restoration therapy(if applicable) to delay the effects of ovarian aging .
3. Poor uterine environment
The uterus is a key site for embryo attachment and growth. If the lining of the uterus is too thin (less than 7 millimeters), it is difficult for the embryo to attach; andfibroid tumor of the uterusmaybeendometriosisThen it may interfere with the normal development of the embryo. These problems can significantly reduce the success of IVF .
How can I improve my uterine problems?
- Use of drugs such asoestrogento thicken the endometrium and promote its growth to the desired thickness (8 to 12 mm).
- be directed againstfibroid tumor of the uterus, either by surgically removing the fibroid or choosing a minimally invasive treatment option, depending on the size and location of the fibroid. Forendometriosis, hormone therapy or conservative surgery may be used to preserve fertility.
4. Male factor infertility
Male sperm quality directly affects fertilization success. Low sperm count, poor motility or abnormal morphology can lead to IVF failure. In addition, smoking and alcohol consumption can further damage sperm health and reduce the chances of fertilization .
How do you address male infertility?
- Quit smoking and drinking and adopt a healthy lifestyle to enhance sperm quality.
- leverageIndividual sperm injection (ICSI)technology, which directly selects high-quality sperm for fertilization and improves fertilization success rates. These methods can significantly improve male infertility and lay the foundation for successful IVF.
5. Lifestyle issues
Daily lifestyle habits can have a significant impact on the success rate of IVF. Being overweight, eating an unhealthy diet, or being chronically under high pressure can interfere with hormone balance, thus reducing success rates .
How can I improve my lifestyle?
- The diet should be rich in nutrient-rich foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables and high-quality proteins (e.g. salmon, sardines and other DHA-rich foods), and supplemented with folic acid and zinc, which can help to improve the quality of eggs and sperm .
- Regular exercise not only controls weight, but also improves metabolic status and creates better physical conditions for pregnancy .
- Avoid tobacco and alcohol as they impair sperm count and quality and may affect embryo development .
6. Genetic anomalies
Genetic problems are an important factor in embryo failure and are especially common in older women, as the probability of chromosomal abnormalities in the egg increases with age .
How do you solve genetic problems?
- utilizationPGT-A(Preimplantation Genetic Screening) technology, which screens chromosomally normal embryos for transfer, can significantly increase the success rate .
- Close communication with your fertility doctor to develop a personalized plan to understand your genetic risk and take targeted measures.
7. Low ovarian reserve
Some women have a reduced number of eggs in their ovaries, a condition calledDecline in Ovarian Reserve (DOR). This not only affects the number of eggs, but can also lead to a decrease in egg quality, which can reduce the success rate of IVF .
How do you address low ovarian reserve?
- Adjusting the dose of IVF medication to get as many eggs as possible, for example withGrowth hormone (GH)Pretreatment with 2 IU per day for 3 months helped to improve ovarian function .
- attemptsMicrostimulation programmaybeNatural Cycle IVFThis reduces the burden of drugs on the ovaries while improving egg quality.
8. Hormonal imbalances
Hormones control the entire process of IVF. IfFollicle stimulating hormone (FSH),Luteinizing Hormone (LH),progesteronemaybeoestrogenThe imbalance in levels may result in the embryo not successfully implanting or maintaining a pregnancy .
How do you solve hormone problems?
- Post-transplantation supplementationprogesterone, which can be given in the form of vaginal suppositories or injections to help the uterine lining better accept the embryo.
- Work with your doctor to develop a personalized hormone therapy program, such as sex hormone replacement therapy, which can improve reproductive organ function and perimenopausal symptoms .
Coping with IVF failure
If IVF fails, don't give up. Here are some steps you can take to improve your success rate next time.
Step 1: Review the cycle
Ask your doctor to carefully analyze what is happening during the IVF cycle. They can check hormone levels, embryo development, and the environment of the uterus to find out what went wrong and make recommendations for improvement . This step is crucial because it helps you understand the specific reasons for failure, such as whether it is a problem with the quality of the embryos or the lining of the uterus.
Step 2: Adjust the treatment plan
Depending on the reason for the failure, the doctor may adjust the IVF program. Example:
- Changing medications or adjusting dosages to better stimulate ovarian ovulation.
- The timing of the embryo transfer is altered to ensure synchronization with the optimal state of the endometrium .
Step 3: Perform more tests
Sometimes, doctors need additional tests to find hidden problems. Example:
- Check for abnormalities in the immune system that may prevent the embryo from being able to latch on.
- The inside of the uterus is examined using a hysteroscope to rule out problems such as fibroids or polyps .
With scientific adjustments and optimization, you can significantly improve your success rate the next time around.
Psychological support during IVF
The process of trying IVF can be very stressful. It is very important to take care of your mental health.
Advice for coping with IVF failure
The process of trying IVF can be very stressful, so it's especially important to take care of your mental health. Join aIVF Support GroupIn addition, a supportive atmosphere where patients can share their feelings with others going through similar experiences and receive emotional support and practical advice can help to alleviate feelings of isolation. In addition, it is important to seek advice from people who understand infertility.CounselorSeeking help can help you better cope with negative emotions such as anxiety and disappointment, while learning to adjust your expectations about the outcome of treatment . Practice relaxation techniques such asYoga or meditationThe family's understanding and support is also essential, as it reduces stress and improves psychological state, thus creating better conditions for the next attempt. The understanding and support of family members is also indispensable, and a relaxed and happy family atmosphere can help improve the success rate.
Alternatives after IVF failure
If multiple attempts at IVF are still unsuccessful, there are other ways to start a family.
Option 1: Surrogacy
Surrogacy is the conception of a pregnancy by another woman, and is an option to help couples who are unable to conceive on their own realize their dream of having a child. For example, if a woman's uterus is not suitable for pregnancy, she may choose "auto-ovulation and auto-fertilization", whereby the couple provides eggs and sperm, and the embryo is implanted in the uterus of the surrogate mother. This method is legal and regulated in some countries, such as Kyrgyzstan, but may be legally and ethically controversial in others. Therefore, before choosing surrogacy, it is important to be fully aware of the relevant legal requirements and potential risks.
Option 2: Adoption
Adopting a child is another way to start a family, especially for couples who are unwilling or unable to continue with assisted reproductive technology. Unlike surrogacy, adoption does not involve complicated medical procedures and provides a warm home for an existing child. Many consider adoption to be a more ethical choice because it not only helps the child, but also reduces the burden on society. However, the adoption process can be tedious and requires patience and mental preparation.
Table: Common Causes of IVF Failure and Solutions
| Reasons for failure | Key data/insights | cure |
|---|---|---|
| Poor embryo quality | Chromosomal abnormalities accounted for 70% of the causes of implantation failure. | Screening for healthy embryos using preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). |
| Older women | Success rates of 40%-50% for women under 35 years of age and less than 10% for women over 40 years of age. | Consider using donor eggs or trying IVF as early as possible. |
| Poor uterine environment | Endometrial thickness less than 7 mm reduces the chance of implantation by 50%. | Use estrogen supplements or G-CSF injections to thicken the uterine lining. |
| Male factor infertility | Male smoking reduces IVF success rates by 15%-20%. | Encourage male partners to quit smoking and adopt a healthy lifestyle. |
| Lifestyle issues | Obesity decreases IVF success 25%-30% due to hormonal imbalances. | Maintain a healthy weight through healthy eating and exercise. |
| genetic abnormality | Chromosomal abnormalities are present in up to 601 TP3T embryos in women over 40 years of age. | Genetic screening (PGT-A) was performed to select normal embryos. |
| Low ovarian reserve | IVF patients with decreased ovarian reserve function affecting 10%-15%. | Adjust the stimulation protocol or consider microstimulation/natural cycle IVF. |
| hormone imbalance | Post-transplant progesterone insufficiency led to the failure of the 10%-15% case. | Progesterone is supplemented by vaginal suppositories or injections after transplantation. |
Frequently Asked Questions About IVF Failures
Q: What are the most common reasons for IVF failure?
A: The main reasons for IVF failure include poor embryo quality, advanced age of the woman, abnormal uterine environment, and male infertility . For example, chromosomal abnormalities in embryos can lead to failure of implantation or early miscarriage, while a thin uterine lining or anatomical problems (e.g., uterine diaphragm) can also significantly affect the success rate.
Q: Can lifestyle changes improve IVF success?
A: Yes! A healthy lifestyle is critical to IVF success . Quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet and reducing stress can significantly improve the success rate . Studies have shown that smoking reduces the quality of sperm and eggs, which in turn affects embryo development .
Q: What is preimplantation genetic testing and when should it be used?
A: Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is used to screen embryos for genetic problems and ensure that healthy embryos are selected for transfer . It is particularly suitable for women of advanced age or patients with a history of recurrent miscarriages.
Q: Are there other options besides traditional IVF?
A: Yes, there are options such as microstimulation IVF, natural cycle IVF, surrogacy or adoption . These methods can provide individualized solutions based on the patient's specific situation, for example, women with low ovarian reserve may be better suited for the microstimulation protocol .
reach a verdict
IVF failure is indeed frustrating, but it does not mean the end of the dream. Failure can be due to a variety of reasons, including poor embryo quality, poor uterine environment, hormonal imbalance or lifestyle issues. By scientifically analyzing the causes of failure and taking targeted measures, such as adjusting medication regimens, improving lifestyle habits or performing genetic screening (PGT), the success rate of the next pregnancy can be significantly improved. Psychological support is also important. Joining a support group or seeking professional counseling can help relieve stress. Remember, close communication with your doctor and a personalized treatment plan is key. You are not alone, and the chances of success are still there if you stick with it!
