How Can In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Success Rates Be Improved?
For many couples and individuals, in vitro fertilization (IVF) will allow them to start the family that they have always wanted. It's one of the most popular and well-known infertility treatments out there today. We receive many inquiries at our fertility center concerning IVF, from its effectiveness to its rate of success, and so on.
We'd like to take an opportunity right now to look at some of the basics of IVF treatment, with special focus on success rates and if there's anything that can be done to improve the chances of successful treatment.
About In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a treatment in which eggs are harvested from a mother-to-be or an egg donor. The eggs are then fertilized in a lab setting. Once the embryos are ready, they are transferred back into the womb so that they can be brought to term.
These are just the basics of IVF treatment. Additional procedures may be involved as well depending on the needs and circumstances that a patient faces.
How successful is in vitro fertilization (IVF)?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) success rates can vary a great deal depending on a number of factors, such as the reason for the infertility, the health and age of the woman, and additional circumstances.
The CDC conducted a study on all assisted-reproduction technology (ART) treatments, of which IVF makes up 99% of procedures. A 2009 study found that ART achieved pregnancy in 29.4% of cases and 22.4% resulted in live births.
Professional Means of Improving In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Success
In order to achieve the best possible results from in vitro fertilization (IVF), fertility specialists will engage in a rigorous screening process to consider a number of factors that may affect success. These screening tests prior to IVF will examine:
- The health/quality of the eggs
- The health/quality of the sperm
- The depth and condition of the uterine cavity
We may also consider placing more embryos during the transfer process, though this does lead to greater chance of multiple birth (twins, triplets, etc.).
Eating Right and Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle
In general, good health does improve chances of successful pregnancy through in vitro fertilization (IVF). Because of this, we urge women considering IVF to:
- Eat a balanced diet
- Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables
- Avoid processed foods
- Stay well hydrated
- Avoid/quit smoking
- Exercise regularly
A Word About Acupuncture and Stress Management
You may have heard that acupuncture can improve your chances of becoming pregnant. Our fertility specialists want to stress that there are currently no medical studies that show that this is the case.
However, we do acknowledge that stress management and stress relief of various kinds can contribute to overall wellness and potentially improve chances of pregnancy via in vitro fertilization (IVF). So while there may not be medical studies that support the claims of acupuncture and many other alternative healing therapies, we feel that anything that can potentially contribute to general wellness may be helpful to the patient.
Weighing All of Your Options
When you visit the practice for a consultation, we will be sure to go over in vitro fertilization (IVF) and other assisted-reproduction technology (ART) treatments in full detail. You may find that IVF in combination with donors or surrogate carriers best meets your needs and improve chances of starting a family of your own.
Learn More About Treatments for Infertility
For more information about in vitro fertilization (IVF) and how it can be beneficial to you and your needs, be sure to contact our Tarzana fertility clinic today. Our entire team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve your dreams of raising a family.